As noted in our June 11 blog entry, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) recently took unprecedented action in immediately suspending the board certifications of 139 physicians. We have been in communication with the ABIM urging them to characterize the action as non-final recommended action pending appeal rather than an immediate suspension. Our intent is to avoid the irreparable impact that an immediate suspension will have on our clients’ staff privileges and relationship with third party payors. We have submitted legal support for this position, and we hope to work with the ABIM to effectuate a more reasonable and thought out solution.
As of today, the following notation has been added to each of the affected physician’s entries on the ABIM website: “Under Appeal – Suspension not final.” This is a significant advancement for all parties involved. We are hopeful that we will be able to effectuate a workable solution through further communication and the appeals process.
For more updated information, please visit the Wall Street Journal’s health blog.
If you have been adversely affected by ABIM’s action, please contact Andrew B. Wachler, Laura C. Range, or Alicia B. Chandler at 248-544-0888.
**NOTE: Please read our July 7, 2010 update of this post.