What is an Allergist / Immunologist?

 An Allergist / Immunologist is a physician specially trained to diagnose, manage and treat allergies and asthma.  To become an allergist / immunologist a physician must complete at least 9 years of training. 

After completing medical school and receiving a medical degree the physician must then complete 3 years of training in internal medicine or pediatrics and must pass the exam of either the American Board of Pediatrics or the American Board of Internal Medicine.  After being trained in one of these specialties the physician must complete at least an additional 2 years of study, called a fellowship, in an allergy / immunology training program. 

For an allergist / immunologist to be listed as ABAI certified they must pass the American Board of Allergy / Immunology certifying examination, following the completion of their fellowship.