At the end of the specialist five-year certification period, CSOWMs who wish to recertify must maintain a current, valid certification within their respective discipline and
- Successfully complete an eligibility application – including the required minimum number of specialty practice hours
- Submit an application fee
- Successfully complete a specialty examination
The reasoning for requiring recertification testing is because the interdisciplinary specialist certification in obesity and weight management is a practice credential—a credential that represents to the public that the certificant possesses the knowledge, skills and experience to function effectively as a specialist in that area. The nature of the knowledge and skills to practice at a specialty level is subject to change due to technological and scientific advances. Recertification testing helps to provide continuing assurance that the certified specialist has indeed maintained their knowledge in the specialty area.
