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American Board of Medical Specialties Welcomes New Leadership

On July 14, 2026, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) proudly announced the appointment of Dr. Michael R. Nelson, MD, PhD, as its new Chair-Elect of the Board of Directors. This not-for-profit organization is known for its pivotal role in overseeing physician certification throughout the United States.

Dr. Nelson currently serves as the President of the American Board of Allergy and Immunology and holds the position of Chief of the Asthma, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology Division at the University of Virginia. His significant contributions to the field have been recognized through his past membership on the ABMS Board of Directors and his recent role as Chair of the Audit Committee. Additionally, he was involved with the Vision for the Future Commission focused on Continuing Certification, advocating tirelessly for the specialty of allergy and immunology nationally.

A notable aspect of Dr. Nelson's distinguished career is his impressive military service. After obtaining his medical degree and PhD from the University of Virginia, he joined the United States Army. Serving for 25 years, Dr. Nelson held multiple high-ranking positions, including Chief Consultant to the U.S. Army Surgeon General and Director of Education, Training, and Research at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. His tenure in the military culminated in retirement in 2019.

ABMS President and CEO, Dr. Richard E. Hawkins, expressed confidence in Dr. Nelson's leadership abilities, stating, "Dr. Nelson has demonstrated exemplary leadership and a steadfast commitment to advancing excellence in medical specialty certification." The board anticipates that Dr. Nelson’s wealth of experience will be crucial as ABMS continues its mission to ensure high standards for medical certifications.

In addition to Dr. Nelson’s elevation to Chair-Elect, the ABMS Board of Directors also introduced two new members:

• - Colleen M. Conry, MD (American Board of Family Medicine, effective August 2025)
• - Heather O'Hara-Rand, MD (American Board of Preventive Medicine, effective April 2026)

The governance structure of ABMS is designed to include representation from various ABMS Member Boards, ensuring a diverse mix of perspectives in medical certification strategies. The board consists of a blend of practicing and retired physicians, alongside public members. This composition reflects a commitment to bringing together a comprehensive understanding of patient care, health policy, and community service.

Founded in 1933, ABMS has been instrumental in the establishment of certification standards for physicians in the U.S. Under its purview are 24 member boards that develop educational and professional standards for the certification of over one million physicians and medical specialists spanning across numerous specialties and subspecialties. ABMS's commitment to enhancing privacy and confidentiality is highlighted through initiatives aimed at improving the quality of care patients receive from certified specialists.

To learn more about the American Board of Medical Specialties and its ongoing initiatives, please visit their official site at abms.org or reach out via telephone at (312) 436-2600.