Just curious...I see some ophthalmologists with 'MD, FACS' after their name and some with just 'MD'...is there a difference in the training / board certification status of these doctors?
What initials are typically after your name after you finish residency and get board certified?
The ACS is a separate organization. You have to apply to join.
To be a fellow, you have to be a member and be board-certified in a surgical specialty. Ophthalmology is one such specialty that qualifies.
You also have to have a nomination from active fellows. That is generally pretty easy to get. I am not sure of the current requirement, but at least one and possibly more are required. See their website.
You have to be in good standing: no license or legal issues.
You also pay a fee. It is about $450 annually.
What does it give you? In some places, a little more informal but equal standing with the other surgeons. That might matter on a community hospital surgery committee. In an academic practice, probably not as much.
To the public, it means you are board-certified. I have seen some ophthalmologists use the abbreviation F.A.A.O., for their fellow standing in the AAO, which would mean the same thing, I guess.
I hope that helps.
-orbitsurgMD, F.A.C.S.
