FAQs on the difference between AAD and ABD

Q. Are the AAD and ABD the same organization?

A. The AAD and ABD are separate organizations that operate entirely independently and have different missions and strategic goals. The main purpose of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) is to provide continuing education for our members and to advocate on behalf of the specialty. The American Board of Dermatology (ABD) is a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties, and its main purpose is to certify and recertify dermatologists as part of its mission to protect the public. ABD sets and monitors the requirements for continuing certification of dermatologists (previously Maintenance of Certification).

Q. Do the AAD and ABD collaborate on any activities?

A. The AAD develops all educational activities independent of other parties, including the ABD.

In addition, the AAD and ABD meet twice a year to ensure open communication between the leadership of the two organizations. The leaders discuss how the two organizations can work together on issues affecting dermatologists and advocate for the specialty.

Q. Does the AAD manage Certlink?

A. Certlink is managed by the American Board of Dermatology and not the AAD. To find more information regarding Certlink visit the ABD website.

Q. Can my Certlink credits appear on my AAD transcript?

A. You can manually record credits from non-AAD organizations, including Certlink, to your AAD transcript. However, because these are separate systems from distinct organizations these credits cannot be automatically recorded. Claim and view your CME credits on the AAD Continuing Professional Development Transcript.

Q. Can I share my CME transcript with the ABD?

A. Yes. Visit your transcript and click the “ABD Sharing” button to opt in to giving the ABD access to your transcript records to streamline the process of reporting your CME to the ABD.