In 2015, the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) established Certificates of Added Qualification (CAQ) to recognize advanced expertise in emerging areas of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. A Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) is a voluntary credential awarded by ABPM to podiatric physicians who show expertise and additional competency in a specialized area of podiatry beyond primary board certification. The CAQ is issued only by ABPM and is not recognized by CPME.  

CAQs serve as valuable indicators of expertise within subspecialties. For solo practitioners, the CAQ reassures potential patients that they are being cared for by someone with specialized skills and experience. For podiatrists seeking career growth in hospitals, clinics, collaborations, or large institutions, the CAQ provides additional recognition and enhances competitiveness for both physicians and their organizations.   

ABPM issues Certificates of Added Qualification to address evolving public needs and to recognize podiatrists devoted to the growing fields of podiatric care beyond primary board certification. There is significant interest among ABPM diplomates for the podiatric surgery CAQ, which is similar to credentials offered by the American Board of Medical Specialties as enhancements to primary certification.   

Qualified podiatrists earned their CAQ by fulfilling the required criteria, passing a validated, knowledge-based exam. Candidates also demonstrated appropriate experience utilizing case review that display to both volume and diversity, completion of specialty fellowship training, or 1,000+ working hours in the respective field of certification.  

While the CAQ has not been formally recognized by the CPME, recent revisions to CPME document 220 now allow for the recognition of additional subspecialty certification beyond primary certification. As a result of this update, ABPM is in the process of working with the profession to further elevate our CAQs, including the potential transition into subspecialty certifications that will be formally recognized by the CPME, thereby enhancing their visibility. The ABPM reaffirms its support for all existing CAQ holders and acknowledges the ongoing validity and continued support of all earned CAQs.