Before applying for examination, prospective candidates should consider whether they are able to meet the requirements of the Board. All residents must meet the operative case requirements which are listed on this web site.
Residents are required to use the ABTS online application. Directions for utilizing the online application should be carefully followed since some of the forms must be printed from the Internet. The forms will need to be signed by the Resident and the Thoracic Surgery Program Director and mailed to the Board office with a copy of the medical license and the registration fee. A list of the documents that must be submitted with the online application is available on this website. A copy of the resident's valid license to practice medicine must be included with the application materials.
Residents who start their training on July 1, 2011 or after are required to enter their cases on the ACGME's OpLogs. Residents who start their training before July 1, 2011 should continue to enter their cases on the CTSNet's OpLogs. The operative case logs are considered the property of the resident and are not kept in the Board office once the resident is certified. All fields of the Op Log should be completed including date, patient ID or case number, diagnosis, title of the operation, and outcome.
For instructions on how to use the CTSNet OpLogs, Click Here. For a list of the most common mistakes on completing the OPLogs, Click Here.
When the resident is ready, the draft online application is reviewed by the Program Director. Once he/she approves the application, the Program Director submits it online to the Board office. The application that is submitted is considered a final document. The incomplete or incorrectly completed application may delay processing for one year. Residents are encouraged to address questions regarding the ABTS' requirements to their Program Director.
The deadline for submitting the completed application is August 15. Failure to submit a complete application by the deadline will result in a delay of at least one year.
The ABTS takes particular note of the problems facing those with a disability and stands ready to alter its examination procedures in such a way that individuals who are competent to practice thoracic surgery have the opportunity to take the Board's examination under circumstances that accommodate the individual's disability. Individuals requiring special consideration because of a disability should notify the Board at least 60 days before the August 15 deadline for submitting an application.
Candidates are notified of their eligibility for examination when their applications have been approved.