The examination for Certification in the Subspecialty of Surgery of the Hand (formerly CAQ Hand) is developed and administered by the Joint Committee on Surgery of the Hand of the American Boards of Orthopaedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery and Surgery.* The Examination consists of multiple-choice questions designed to evaluate the candidate’s cognitive knowledge of clinical Hand Surgery and the basic science relevant to Hand Surgery.
Requirements* to take the Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand include:
• General certification by American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, American Board of Plastic Surgery or American Board of Surgery.*
• Active practice of surgery of the hand for at least two years, in the same location, following the completion of any formal education.
• Current, valid, registered, full and unrestricted license to practice medicine in the United States and/or Canada.
• Adherence to ethical and professional standards.
• Active engagement in the practice of hand surgery.
• Completion of a one year ACGME accredited fellowship in surgery of the hand.
• Submission of a list of cases of surgery of the hand managed during a consecutive 12 month period within the two years preceding application, in at least six of nine categories.
• Adherence to all other requirements as set forth by the applicant’s certifying board.
*The American Osteopathic Board of Surgery (AOBOS) administers its own version of the exam. Requirements, timing, and test administration are slightly different than the exam given by the other boards. Consult with the AOBOS for specific requirements.
NOTE: Rules and procedures are subject to change. Please consult your certifying board for the most up-to-date information as well as timelines for application.
For more information and/or to apply, contact your certifying board.
• ABOS: www.abos.org; (919) 929-7103
• ABS: www.absurgery.org; (215) 568-4000
• ABPS: www.abplsurg.org; (215) 587-9322
• AOBOS: www.aobos.org; (877) 982-6267