Certified Obesity Medical Physician (COMP) FAQ

Why are you starting a COMP program?

As the obesity epidemic continues to grow, now is the time for training and recognizing physicians who are experts in the care of patients with obesity.

How does the COMP program differ from other programs that offer certification in obesity management?

The COMP program differs in a number of key ways:

The COMP program was developed and is sustained by individuals who are faculty in academic medical centers.
The COMP program will test a physician’s knowledge of basic science, clinical science and population science, underpinning the theory of modern approaches to obesity management.
The COMP program will test a physician’s knowledge of research base that supports obesity evaluation and treatment.
COMP takes a comprehensive approach in assessing knowledge of obesity management (rather than focusing on weight loss per se), including knowledge of obesity prevention, childhood obesity, and management of the obese patient including obesity comorbidity management, and pre- and post-surgical management of obesity.

How does the COMP program differ from the ABBM program?

The COMP program is being developed in a comprehensive manner through the support and active participation of 13+ professional medical societies and organizations and represents the collective efforts of those professional society members. It is the preferred path for individuals who have board certification in a primary care specialty and wish to demonstrate added competence.

When will the examination be ready?

We are still in the early stages of developing the examination. There are a number of detailed processes that must be completed before the examination will be ready. We are currently estimating the launch of the program in the 4th quarter of 2010.

What are the eligibility requirements for taking the examination? Who can take it?

The specific eligibility requirements for taking the COMP examination are not yet finalized. The COMP program is deliberately being developed in a manner that will facilitate its eligibility for ABMS accreditation.

How much will it cost?

The fees associated with the COMP examination have yet to be determined. These will be evaluated and determined closer to the official launch of the examination itself.

Will the COMP certification be recognized by the ABMS?

Having the COMP program accredited by ABMS is an end goal of the COMP Steering Committee. However, ABMS accreditation is a complex and involved application process. The COMP program is being carefully developed to eventually facilitate ABMS accreditation.

Can I be notified of future COMP program announcements?

Yes. Please send an email to Bscott@obesity.org indicating that you wish to be placed on the email notification list to receive future COMP program announcements.

Executive Office: 8630 Fenton Street, Suite 814, Silver Spring, MD 20910 | Tel: (301) 563-6526 | Fax: (301) 563-6595