Subspecialty certification in geriatric psychiatry.

OBJECTIVE: The authors describe the development of certification and recertification processes for geriatric psychiatry, the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology's second subspecialty in psychiatry. METHODS: Authors referenced databases of the certifying organizations and consulted published surveys of examinees. RESULTS: Since the first certification examination was administered in 1991, 2,595 certificates have been awarded. Because the certificates are time-limited, diplomates must sit for recertification every 10 years. Thus far, about 63% of the diplomates who have needed to do so have been recertified. CONCLUSION: It is estimated that 5,000 geriatric psychiatrists will be needed to meet future healthcare needs. Thus, the demand for this expertise will be increasing, and it is anticipated that board-certified geriatric psychiatrists will continue to play leading roles in educating practitioners from multiple disciplines.