Radiation Oncology is that branch of clinical medicine concerned with the causes, prevention, and treatment of cancer and certain nonneoplastic conditions, utilizing ionizing radiation.

Initial certification information is for candidates who have not been certified in radiation oncology.

The Certificate

A certificate will be issued to each candidate who has finished a prescribed and approved period of training and study and has passed computer-based and oral examinations, demonstrating an adequate level of knowledge and ability in radiation oncology in accordance with the definition as stated in the bylaws and rules and regulations of the American Board of Radiology.

Certification is important:

• Prospective employers want to know your credentials. Having ABR certification assures them that you have met certain performance standards.
• Many patients seek background on their caregivers. Once again, ABR certification declares to them that you have achieved a prescribed level of excellence in your profession.

As you go through your residency and as you finish, you take examinations that afford you your first certification.

Your certificate is time-limited; it is good for ten years.

Over those ten years, you are expected to continue learning and improving your skills in a personalized program ( see MOC information ). Then, before the end of the tenth year (any time within the last three years of the cycle), you must take a maintenance of certification (MOC) exam.

When you have completed all that is required for the MOC cycle, you are issued a new certificate which shows interested parties that you are keeping up with the latest developments in your field and can thereby render high-quality service.

NOTE: Beginning in 2009, candidates will have a 10-year period after completion of training to obtain initial certification. A candidate who does not obtain initial certification as of the ninth year after completion of training should contact the American Board of Radiology to obtain further information. Candidates who completed their training before 2009 and who have not yet obtained initial certification should also contact the ABR for further information.

A certificate granted by this Board does not of itself confer, or purport to confer, any degree or legal qualifications, privileges, or license to practice radiation oncology.