Cardiology in the United States: A Subspecialty Today -A Specialty Tomorrow? Cardiology
Cardiology in the United States: A Subspecialty Today -A Specialty Tomorrow?
Cardiology
Source: ACC Official Update (2026 )
(published days ago).
Certification in the U.S. – Overview
Current Structure
• Cardiology is not an independent specialty.
• It is a subspecialty of Internal Medicine.
• Certification is granted by the
American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).
• Pathway:
• 3 years Internal Medicine
• 3 years Cardiology fellowship
• ABIM Cardiovascular Disease exam
• All subspecialties (Interventional, EP, HF, ACHD) remain under ABIM.
• There is no independent American Board of Cardiology.
Why It Is Being Debated
• Cardiology has become highly specialized.
• Current exams are broad and burdensome.
• Many cardiologists want:
• Subspecialty-focused assessment
• Continuous learning instead of periodic high-stakes exams
• A proposal for an independent board was submitted but not approved (2026).
• The idea was supported by major societies:
• American College of Cardiology (ACC/AHA/SCAI..Among others.
• Any change requires approval from
American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
• Reapplication may occur in the future.