What Is a F.A.C.E. in a Medical Practice?
F.A.C.E. is among many acronyms in the medical profession. In a medical practice, a F.A.C.E. is a Fellow of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Endocrinologists assist patients with diseases such as diabetes and hyperthyroidism. There are several requirements to reach the F.A.C.E. level of professional distinction.
-
Education and Training
-
To obtain the distinction of being a F.A.C.E., the individual first must be either a M.D., (medical doctor) or D.O. (doctor of osteopathic medicine). While not as common as a M.D., a D.O. also obtains a four-year graduate degree and completes both an internship and residency program. The level of care provided by a D.O. is the same as that provided by a M.D.
Fellowship Program
-
A fellowship is additional training for a physician after completing his internship and residency. A physician must apply to a fellowship program in his specialty. Acceptance into the program is not guaranteed. A fellowship in endocrinology is three years.
-
F.A.C.E. Designation
-
Once the physician completes his fellowship in endocrinology, he earns the title of Fellow of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. It is not required that a F.A.C.E. obtains board certification. Physicians who elect to become board certified do so through the American Board of Internal Medicine in the areas of endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism.
Continuing Medical Education
-
All physicians, whether an M.D. or a D.O., are responsible for meeting annual continuing medical education requirements. Requirements are dictated by the physician's state of licensing. Continuing medical education is overseen by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education and the American Osteopathic Association.
Diseases Treated by a F.A.C.E.
-
A F.A.C.E. will treat patients who exhibit problems with the endocrine system. Diseases include diabetes, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, osteoporosis and pituitary gland disorders.
-
