INACTIVE CERTIFICATE

Diplomates holding a valid certificate from the American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) and who expect to be clinically inactive for a period of one year or more may apply for inactive status. Application must be made, in writing, to the Board office, and approved, in writing, in advance of the granting of inactive status.  Activities calling for such status might include, but not be limited to, academic sabbaticals, advanced studies, elected/appointed political office, temporary disability from illness, or appointment to administrative positions in hospitals, medical schools or health-related industries. 

The certification maintenance fee is waived for individuals on inactive status. 

There is no limit to the length of time that a diplomate can remain on inactive status, but, by applying for inactive status, the diplomate certifies that he/she will refrain from the clinical practice of thoracic surgery for the entire duration of the inactive status.

The Board’s response to inquiries regarding such diplomates will indicate their inactive status.  Diplomates with inactive status will not be recognized in the ABMS Directory of Medical Specialists.

Individuals with inactive certificates wishing to resume clinical thoracic surgery and reactivate their certificate must make written application to the Board.  Prior to reactivation, the Board will consider the length of time that the diplomate was inactive, the type of disability (if applicable), the types of activities in which the diplomate has been involved and other factors.  Before reactivating his/her certificate, the Board may require that the diplomate acquire additional education, supervised practice, and possibly repeat all or part of the original certification process.