About Us

Our Mission

ABFAS safeguards public health and well-being by certifying and continuously assessing the knowledge, skills, and abilities of podiatric surgeons to ensure excellence in surgical care.

Our Core Purpose

To promote the health and well-being of the public.

Our Values

Excellence: Embracing innovation, continuous improvement, and adaptability.

Integrity: Upholding fairness and transparency in all our actions.

Quality: Committing to high standards and trustworthiness.

Service: Dedicated to serving the profession and the public.

Serving the Public for Nearly 50 Years!

Recognizing the need for a surgical specialty board within the field of podiatry, the Council on Podiatric Medical Education (CPME) approved the creation of the National Board of Podiatric Surgery. Today, that board is called the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery® (ABFAS).

The primary function of ABFAS is to certify qualified foot and ankle surgeons. Initially, we offered a single certification in foot and ankle surgery. Today, ABFAS offers board certification in foot surgery or foot and reconstructive rearfoot/ankle (RRA) surgery.

Prior to achieving ABFAS Board Certification, candidates must become ABFAS Board Qualified in Foot Surgery or ABFAS Board Qualified in Foot and RRA Surgery. To become ABFAS Board Qualified, DPMs must complete a three-year residency program and pass ABFAS Part I Board Qualification Exams (or the equivalent Final-year In-training Exams). Once board qualified (or "board eligible"), candidates must pass the rigorous Case Review process to achieve ABFAS Board Certification.

ABFAS board-certified surgeons, called ABFAS Diplomates, engage in a process of continuous learning to remain certified through the LEAD Continuous Certification Program.