Vascular and interventional radiology is a subspecialty of diagnostic radiology that encompasses the diagnosis of all abnormalities and anomalies of the arteries, veins, and lymphatics. It includes all vascular and nonvascular imaging-directed interventional procedures. All modalities and techniques used in diagnostic and interventional procedures are also part of this subspecialty.

Initial certification information is for candidates who are certified in diagnostic radiology, but who have not yet certified in vascular and interventional radiology.

The Certificate

The American Board of Radiology conducts oral examinations to ascertain the qualification of diagnostic radiologists who have studied vascular and interventional radiology. A board-certified vascular and interventional radiologist is one who has demonstrated knowledge, problem-solving, and application of those skills to a degree worthy of the public's and the profession's trust. This is someone deemed capable of working in various sectors of the field safely and effectively.

There are several reasons that 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.

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 Timelines & Fees ). Then, before the end of the tenth year (any time within the last three years of the cycle), you take a maintenance of certification 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.

Please note that you may fulfill the MOC requirements to maintain your certifications in both diagnostic radiology and vascular/interventional radiology with a single MOC program. Two separate MOC efforts are not necessary.