In an age where chronic conditions like obesity are rapidly rising, the importance of special care has been a pressing challenge in the healthcare industry. Obesity is a multifaceted disease that requires deep understanding of its physiological, psychological, and environmental influences. But to deal with this condition and provide the best possible treatment with respect to the latest research, mastering the science behind it is crucial. Therefore, to understand and commit as a reputable physician, obesity medicine board certification has become a need.
In this blog, we’ll explore why board certification in obesity medicine matters, for patients, physicians, and the broader healthcare system.
Understanding Obesity
Obesity occurs due to genetics, environmental or behavioral factors. It is due to excessive body fat accumulation, leading to adverse health outcomes. Ultimately, 2.5 billion adults of around 18 and older were found overweight and 890 million were living with obesity. Moreover, some studies predict that by 2050 people worldwide will be overweight or obese.
What is the American Board of Obesity Medicine
The American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) is a nonprofit organization established in 2011 to certify physicians specializing in obesity care. In particular, this certification signifies a physician’s expertise in managing obesity, ensuring they provide evidence-based and comprehensive treatment options to patients. As of 2025, the number of ABOM diplomates exceeds 9,800, reflecting a growing commitment to obesity care.
However, the obesity medicine board certification is a mark of excellence. It distinguishes healthcare providers who have gone the extra mile to specialize in one of the health challenges. Moreover, to obtain board certification in obesity medicine, a physician needs to undergo rigorous training and assessment in managing obesity. Hence with this certification, they can standardize and elevate the quality of obesity care with greater expertise.
Importance of Obesity Medicine Certification
Obesity is a complex and widespread health issue that affects millions of people across the globe. However, it contributes to a range of serious medical, psychological, and social challenges. As obesity rates are rising, the medical community responds developing a special field known as obesity medicine. Thus, focusing exclusively on the prevention, evaluation, and treatment of this multifactorial disease.
In addition, the obesity medicine board certification highlights a healthcare professional’s dedication in evidence-based care for individuals living with obesity. Furthermore, let’s figure out why it is essential and why it enhances the standard of obesity medicine board certification.
Expertise in Obesity Care
Physicians who achieve obesity medicine board certification have undergone specialized training in biology, psychology, and clinical treatment of obesity. Hence, this deep understanding allows them to address genetics, hormones or environment that contribute to weight gain and obesity-related conditions.
Commitment to Evidence-Based Medicine
Board-certified obesity medicine physicians practice with a strong foundation in the latest scientific research. However these treatment strategies are in clinical evidence, which further enhances safety, effectiveness, and long-term patient outcomes. Hence these, also certification requires passing a rigorous exam that tests knowledge of current guidelines, therapies, and emerging science.
Personalized Treatment Plans
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to obesity. Thus, Board-certified specialists develop individual plans based on a patient’s health history, goals, metabolic profile, and readiness for change.
Ongoing Education and Clinical Growth
To maintain certification, physicians must participate in continuing medical education focusing on obesity care. As they remain up to date on the latest developments in medications, nutrition science, and behavioral therapy.
Why does Board Certification Matter in Clinical Research
Research shows that board-certified physicians consistently deliver higher-quality care and achieve better patient outcomes. However this certification is also linked to the safety and security of the patients across clinical settings. Thus, including hospitals, clinics and private practices. Additionally, physicians who maintain their board certification tend to provide more cost-effective care, helping reduce overall healthcare expenses without compromising quality.
Board Certification in obesity medicine holds a strong significance and value in clinical research. Moreover, it ensures expertise of the physicians with obesity medicine certificate who undergo rigorous training. Furthermore, it also promotes practices such as certified specialists who are more likely to implement evidence-based guidelines.
About Dr. Mary Imig
Dr. Mary Imig brings a deep commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care through her diverse clinical background and strong foundation in family and obesity medicine. Dr. Imig did her Family Medicine residency at the University of Illinois, UnityPoint Health in Peoria. Consequently, serving as Chief Resident during the COVID-19 pandemic, which made her a role reflecting her leadership and resilience in times of challenge.
In 2024, Dr. Imig earned board certification in obesity medicine from the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) one of the highest credentials in the field. Hence, this certification equips her with specialized knowledge and training in the causes. Additionally, the complexities, and treatment of obesity, allowing her to provide more effective and personalized care to individuals struggling with weight-related conditions.
How This Certification Sets Our Research Site Apart
Dr. Imig’s obesity medicine certification brings critical expertise to our clinical research site. As a board-certified obesity medicine specialist, she ensures our protocols are informed by the latest, evidence-based standards in obesity care. Thus, enhancing our studies’ scientific integrity and relevance. In addition, her clinical insight allows us to design and conduct obesity-related trials better, recruit appropriate participants, and interpret outcomes through a highly informed lens.
Dr. Imig joined our research team in 2021 as a Principal Investigator, but her connection to clinical trials began long before. As the daughter of Dr. Koch, a respected leader in clinical research, Dr. Imig immersed herself in the research world in advancing medicine and patient care. Moreover, she continues that legacy with a strong focus on quality, innovation, and compassionate research leadership.
Future of obesity Research
As obesity continues to be one of the most pressing global health challenges, affecting over 650 million adults worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, the future of obesity research is more critical than ever. The field is rapidly evolving, with growing recognition that obesity is a complex, chronic disease requiring nuanced, multi-disciplinary approaches. Certainly, with advancements in precision medicine, pharmacotherapy, genetics, and behavioral science, the next wave of research will move beyond simply measuring weight loss.
Therefore, this credential ensures that our protocols are designed with an understanding of the latest scientific developments and aligned with real-world clinical practices.
Conclusion
For healthcare providers, obesity medicine board certification represents a meaningful step toward becoming leaders in one of today’s most critical areas of medicine. For patients, it ensures access to expert care that is personalized, respectful, and grounded in the latest research. As obesity medicine continues to evolve, board certification will remain a key standard for advancing quality care, driving innovation, and improving lives.
At Koch Research, we are proud to integrate this level of expertise into our clinical trials. With board-certified investigators like Dr. Mary Imig leading the way, our site is uniquely positioned to contribute meaningful data and drive the future of obesity treatment. If you’re a sponsor seeking a high-quality research partner or a patient interested in participating in an obesity study, connect with us today to learn more.
