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. 2022 Oct 7;18(1):118–130. doi: 10.1177/15598276221131524

Table 10.

Key Insights from ACLM Member Physicians Regarding Certification in Lifestyle Medicine.

Topic Insight or Perception Impact of ABLM certification
ABLM certification benefits ABLM certification is a source of personal pride that could help market clinical services and increase job opportunities, but is unlikely to increase compensation Diplomates more likely to note personal pride and job opportunities
Certifying body ABLM and ABMS can meet certification needs and promote lifestyle medicine as part of mainstream medicine, with little concern by patients regarding the certifying body but a preference by payers for ABMS Diplomates favor ABMS for recognition in mainstream medicine and by payers
ABMS role ABMS certification in lifestyle medicine is an aspirational goal, with no immediate urgency, and would best be achieved through subspecialty certification, not through membership as a primary board No impact on responses
Role of residency or fellowship ABMS certification in lifestyle medicine at the specialist/intensivist level should not require a residency or fellowship in lifestyle medicine Diplomates more likely to favor residency or fellowship training
ITLC ITLC is an essential component of lifestyle medicine that all physicians should be able to implement with little interest, or perceived need for, fellowship training or additional subspecialty certification Diplomates more likely to be practicing ITLC and to see value in specialized training
Mainstream medicine All physicians should be trained in lifestyle medicine as part of the ACGME common program requirements, even if they are unable to meet the standards for ITLC Diplomates favor training all clinicians in ITLC

Abbreviations: ABLM, American Board of Lifestyle Medicine; ABMS, American Board of Medical Specialties, ACLM, American College of Lifestyle Medicine; ITLC, intensive therapeutic lifestyle change.