In an emergency, you don’t get to choose which doctor walks through that hospital door.
Most of us have spent real time vetting our kids’ pediatricians. We've read the reviews, asked other moms, and maybe even switched a couple of times until it felt right. But the ER? That’s whoever’s on shift.
Which is exactly why it’s worth knowing — before you ever need it — whether your local Emergency Department is staffed by ABEM-certified physicians.
This article is sponsored by the American Board of Emergency Medicine.
What Is ABEM Certification, and Why Does It Matter?
ABEM stands for the American Board of Emergency Medicine. Their board certification is widely considered the gold standard credential for emergency physicians.
It signals that a doctor is committed to ongoing education and stays current with the latest treatments, best practices, and advances in emergency care.
And here’s something many parents don’t realize: ABEM certification isn’t a one-time achievement. Physicians maintain their certification through continuing education, regular assessments, and practice improvement throughout their careers.
Worth knowing: ABEM itself is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), an independent organization that evaluates certification programs for quality, safety, and accountability.
The ER Isn’t Just for Broken Bones Anymore
Americans make more than 150 million emergency department visits every year.
And today’s ERs handle far more than they used to. Emergency Departments now provide observation care, critical care, and even support for hospital-at-home programs. For many families, the ER has become a frontline healthcare hub.
ERs are team environments, and nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and technicians all play important roles. But ABEM — along with 80% of Americans — believes board-certified emergency physicians should be leading that team.
Because in a true emergency, leadership matters.
The Good News? You Can Actually Check
There are more than 49,000 ABEM-certified emergency physicians practicing across the United States right now, and one may already be at your local hospital.
ABEM offers a free public directory where families can look up whether physicians at their local Emergency Department are board-certified.
You can also check your hospital’s website for information about emergency medicine physicians and pediatric emergency services. If the information isn’t clear, it’s completely okay to call and ask questions before an emergency ever happens.
 |
Search ABEM-Certified Physicians →
5 Things Smart Moms Do Before They Ever Need the ER
1. Look up your nearest Emergency Department now, not during a crisis.
Know which hospital is closest, whether it has a dedicated pediatric ER, and how to get there quickly from your home, your kids’ school, and other places you spend time.
2. Check whether your local ER has ABEM-certified physicians.
Use the free lookup tool at abemcertified.abem.org. It takes just a couple of minutes. If this information is unclear, call the hospital and ask.
3. Keep a medical summary for each family member somewhere easy to find.
Medications, allergies, chronic conditions, previous surgeries — save it in your phone or keep a printed copy in your wallet.
4. Know your insurance basics.
Which ERs are in-network? What’s your copay? Does your insurance offer a nurse hotline for non-emergencies? These are good things to know ahead of time.
5. Trust your gut ... and go.
If something feels seriously wrong with your child, don’t talk yourself out of getting help. ER teams would always rather see you early than too late.
A Good Reminder: Emergency Medicine Day Is May 27
Every year on May 27, Emergency Medicine Day recognizes the physicians and healthcare teams who care for patients during some of the scariest moments of their lives.
It’s also a good reminder for parents: a little preparation now can make an overwhelming situation feel just a little more manageable later.
Quick FAQ
Do all ERs have ABEM-certified doctors?
Not necessarily. Certification is voluntary, and staffing varies by hospital.
How do I find out if my local ER has ABEM-certified physicians?
Use ABEM’s free lookup tool or visit the hospital website and look for:
- Emergency medicine physicians
- Pediatric emergency services
If this information is unclear, call the hospital and ask:
- “Are your emergency physicians board certified in emergency medicine?”
- “Are physicians on-site 24/7?”
- “Do you have pediatric emergency-trained physicians?”
If you know the name of a physician who treated you or your family, the ABEM directory can help verify whether that doctor is board certified in emergency medicine.
Should I go to urgent care or the ER?
For life-threatening emergencies — difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe allergic reactions, major injuries, or altered consciousness — go to the ER. Urgent care is better for non-life-threatening illnesses and minor injuries.
What should I bring to the ER?
Insurance card, medications list, allergy information, and a phone charger. ER visits can sometimes involve long waits.
Is the ER the right place for mental health emergencies?
Yes. If someone is experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, the ER is an appropriate place to seek immediate help.
