Board Certification Committee

Jaime Ponce, MD FACS FIFSO DABS-FPMBS DABOM FASMBS
Chair

Matt Hutter, MD MBA MPH
Co-Chair

Ann Rogers, MD FACS DABS-FPMBS FASMBS
BOD Liaison

Members

Stacy Brethauer MD
Shanu Kothari MD FASMBS
Richard Peterson MD MPH FACS DABS-FPMBS FASMBS
Marina Kurian MD FACS DABOM DABS-FPMBS FASMBS
Teresa LaMasters MD FACS DABOM DABS-FPMBS FASMBS
Tammy Kindel MD PhD FACS FASMBS
Adrian Dan MD FACS DABS-FPMBS FASMBS
Rana Pullatt MD FACS DABS-FPMBS FASMBS
Wayne English MD FACS FASMBS

Staff Liaison

Cindy Chambers

Charge:

The Board Certification Committee of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) is charged with establishing and maintaining the highest standards of recognition for professionals in the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery in collaboration with the American Board of Surgery. The committee will ensure that the recognition process reflects the latest advancements in surgical techniques, patient care, and medical interventions, thereby enhancing the quality of care for individuals affected by obesity and its associated illnesses.

Description:

The Board Certification Committee is dedicated to the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of a rigorous Focus Practice Designation program for metabolic and bariatric surgery professionals. This program is designed to verify and recognize the expertise, skill, and commitment of surgeons to the highest standards of practice in treating obesity. The committee will align its activities with the ASMBS mission to enhance well-being and vision to elevate global health and quality of life by reducing the impact of obesity.

Objectives:

  • Elevate the specialty recognition and status of bariatric surgeons as a specialized field within the surgical profession. 
  • Provide educational opportunities for metabolic and bariatric surgeons to review knowledge within the specialty field
  • Provide the FPD credential to surgeons in recognition of their expertise and dedication to bariatric patient care. 

Goals:

  • Conduct thorough analyses and update the blueprint knowledge in metabolic and bariatric surgery to improve FPD examination content as needed. 
  • Facilitate, streamline and improve the process for surgeons to pursue, obtain and maintain the FPD credential.
  • Expand outreach efforts and collaboration via partnerships with medical societies, healthcare institutions, and industry stakeholders to facilitate collaboration in advancing bariatric care.