Cardiologists

Two major organizations that serve cardiologists are the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). The ABIM is a nonprofit independent evaluation organization that certifies physicians in internal medicine and its 20 subspecialties, including cardiovascular disease. One out of every four practicing physicians in the United States is board certified by the ABIM—more than 200,000 physicians in all. To be "board certified" means that the physician has demonstrated to his or her peers and to the public that they have the clinical skills, judgment, and attitudes that are needed to deliver excellent patient care.

Many cardiologists apply to become members of the American College of Cardiology. Membership is a sign of a high level of professionalism and competence. To be considered for various levels of membership, the college takes into account the physician's length of service, board certifications, and scientific accomplishments. The highest level, Fellow, allows the use of the initials F.A.C.C. (Fellow of the American College of Cardiology). The ACC is a 56,000-member nonprofit medical society that advocates for quality cardiovascular care through education, promotion of research, and development and application of standards and guidelines, and discussion of health policy.