EVANSTON, Ill. - April 12, 2007 - American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) announces the addition of e-commerce capabilities to its Web site, making it easier for visitors to purchase publications, conference proceedings and books. This feature is one of several enhancements and upgrades made to the site since its redesign four months ago.

“Since we launched the redesigned Web site, we have been reviewing the site metrics and user feedback to find out what our visitors are most interested in knowing and doing,” said Lori Boukas, ABMS director of marketing and communications. “This information helps us focus on creating valuable and more meaningful user experiences by using technology to our advantage.”

E-commerce capabilities in the Publications section provide the convenience of online ordering and secure electronic payment. A variety of publications are available for purchase including the popular booklet, Guide to Physician Specialties. This booklet describes the ABMS organization and explains board certification and ABMS Maintenance of Certification. Each of the more than 130 medical specialties and subspecialties where ABMS Member Boards issue certification is defined. A graphical summary depicts the basic process a physician takes to become board certified. Contact and Web site information for each of the ABMS Member Boards is also included.

Other enhancements to the Web site include a reorganized News, Events & Resources section featuring newsletters, blogs, an events calendar and links to valuable healthcare information. The Frequently Asked Question area has been expanded and new product information pages will be added soon. Efficiency back-end improvements include integration with our customer relationship management database which cuts down on operation time and provides us the ability to make more timely customer contacts.

 “The improvements we recently made will help us achieve our goal of better efficiencies for our internal staff, our board members, our customers and everyone who visits our Web site. Our site is our main communication tool and these new enhancements are the first of many features to come,” explained Boukas. “Our goal is to give visitors a reliable and trusted place to learn about ABMS, physician specialties and the board certification process.”

About ABMS

The American Board of Medical Specialties is the preeminent medical organization overseeing physician certification in the United States. It assists its 24 Member Boards in their efforts to develop and implement educational and professional standards for the evaluation and certification of physician specialists. ABMS Member Boards provide physician certification information to ABMS for its certification verification service programs. ABMS is recognized by the key healthcare credentialing accreditation entities as a primary equivalent source of board certification data for medical specialists. Visit www.abms.org or call (312) 436-2600.