Updates to Retired Status for Diplomates
| POLICY UPDATE
TAMPA, Fla., February 19, 2026 — The American Board of Pathology (ABPath) is updating how diplomate status will be recorded for individuals who are no longer in active practice. These changes ensure ABPath maintains accurate records and correctly reports diplomates’ current practice and licensure status.
Automatic Update for Certain Diplomates
Effective July 1, 2026, ABPath will automatically update the status to “Retired” for diplomates who meet both of the following criteria:
- Received primary certification in 1975 or earlier
- Do not currently hold an active medical license
To ensure our records remain accurate, please contact us by July 1, 2026, if you received primary certification in 1975 or earlier but are still in active practice.
Diplomates transitioned to Retired status under this policy will not be required to meet additional retired status requirements.
Voluntary Status Change for Non-Time-Limited Diplomates No Longer in Practice
Non-time-limited diplomates who received primary certification in 1976 through 2005 and are no longer in active practice may request Retired status by contacting ABPath.
ABPath values the contributions diplomates have made throughout their careers and welcomes the opportunity to update diplomate records to appropriately reflect retirement from active practice.
Contact Information
Diplomates who believe they may be affected by these updates should contact the American Board of Pathology by July 1, 2026, at John@abpath.org.
For more information on Retired status requirements, visit https://abpath.org/retired-status/.
Diplomates can also view the Retired Status Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
About the American Board of Pathology
The mission of the American Board of Pathology, as a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties, is to serve the public and advance the profession of pathology by setting certification standards and promoting lifelong competency of pathologists. Founded in 1936, the ABPath accomplishes this mission by establishing certification and continuing certification standards and assessing the qualifications of those seeking to obtain voluntary certification in the specialty of pathology. For more information visit abpath.org or call (813) 286-2444.