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[ Home ](https://mdster.com) 2. [ Family Medicine ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine) 3. AOBFP AOBFP Exam Preparation ======================== American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians USA AOBFP administers AOA board certification in Family Medicine and Family Medicine/OMT for eligible physicians. Initial primary certification includes a Written (Cognitive) Exam and, for those pursuing certification in Family Medicine and OMT, an OMT Performance Exam. After certification, diplomates maintain credentials through Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC) requirements. Written (Cognitive) Exam OMT Performance Exam 2,926+ Questions 2,345+ Flashcards 73+ Podcasts About the AOBFP Exam ---------------------- The American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (AOBFP) administers primary AOA board certification for eligible osteopathic family physicians. The credential validates a physician's comprehensive medical knowledge, clinical skills, and expertise in family medicine. Candidates can choose to certify solely in Family Medicine or pursue the Family Medicine and OMT designation by completing an additional practical performance exam. ### Eligibility Candidates must be graduates of a COCA-accredited osteopathic medical school (or hold an equivalent DO degree) and hold a valid, unrestricted medical license. They must be near completion (typically the spring of their final year) or have successfully completed an AOA- or ACGME-accredited three-year family medicine residency program. ### Exam Format The initial certification comprises two parts: a Written (Cognitive) Exam consisting of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), and an optional OMT Performance Exam. The OMT Performance Exam is a practical, hands-on clinical assessment required only for those seeking the Family Medicine/OMT designation. ### Duration The Written Exam generally takes about 4 hours to complete. The OMT Performance Exam is a shorter clinical evaluation, typically lasting between 1 to 2 hours depending on the testing format and candidate flow. ### Passing Criteria The exam utilizes a criterion-referenced standard setting. Results are reported as a scaled score, and candidates must meet or exceed a statistically validated minimum passing threshold determined by the AOBFP psychometric team. ### Exam Fees Exam fees typically range from $400 to $600 for the Written Exam, and an additional $400 to $600 for the OMT Performance Exam. Late registration usually incurs additional fees, and candidates should verify exact pricing on the official AOA portal. ### Exam Frequency The Written Exam is administered twice annually, typically in the spring and fall. The OMT Performance Exam is offered periodically throughout the year, often aligning with the written exam windows or national osteopathic conferences. ### Registration Process Registration is completed online via the AOA physician portal. Candidates must submit an application, pay the exam fee, and provide supporting documentation such as a residency program director verification form and proof of medical licensure. AOBFP Key Syllabus Topics --------------------------- Core topics and subject areas covered in the AOBFP examination ### Osteopathic Principles and Practice (OPP/OMT) Integration of osteopathic philosophy, somatic dysfunction diagnosis, viscerosomatic reflexes, and specific OMT techniques. ~10-15% ### Cardiovascular Disease Diagnosis and management of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, and heart failure. ~10-12% ### Pediatrics Well-child care, developmental milestones, immunizations, and management of common childhood illnesses. ~8-10% ### Endocrinology Management of diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, lipid abnormalities, and metabolic syndrome. ~8-10% ### Women's Health and Gynecology Contraception, menopause management, prenatal care, and preventive cancer screenings. ~8-10% ### Respiratory System Guidelines for asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and upper respiratory tract infections. ~8-10% ### Musculoskeletal and Sports Medicine Evaluation of joint pain, fracture management, osteoarthritis, and common sports injuries. ~8-10% ### Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. ~5-8% ### Geriatrics Dementia evaluation, fall prevention, polypharmacy management, and end-of-life care. ~5-8% ### Gastroenterology Management of GERD, peptic ulcer disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver pathologies. ~5-8% ### Infectious Disease Antimicrobial stewardship, sexually transmitted infections, and tick-borne diseases. ~5-8% **11** key topics covered Start Your AOBFP Preparation Today ------------------------------------ Comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass the AOBFP with confidence [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • 5-day free trial Everything You Need to Pass the AOBFP --------------------------------------- A complete preparation platform with tools designed for Family Medicine professionals ### Practice Questions 2,926+ questions across MCQ, SAQ, SOE formats with detailed explanations and references ### Flashcards 2,345+ flashcards for active recall — mark known and unknown cards to focus on weak areas ### Audio Podcasts 73+ audio episodes — learn on the go during commutes, workouts, or ward breaks ### Timed Mock Exams Simulate real exam conditions with timed sessions, customisable question counts, and topic filters ### AI-Powered Q&A Ask follow-up questions on any topic and get instant, contextual answers with references ### Performance Analytics Track your progress, identify weak areas, and monitor your exam readiness with detailed analytics AOBFP Exam Structure ---------------------- Our materials cover all parts of the AOBFP examination ### Written (Cognitive) Exam The AOBFP Written (Cognitive) Exam is a comprehensive assessment designed for osteopathic physicians seeking initial primary certification in Family Medicine or Family Medicine/OMT. It evaluates a candidate's clinical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and understanding of basic and clinical sciences critical to family medicine practice. Candidates can complete this requirement via the traditional pathway or the Early Entry Initial Certification (EEIC) program during their final year of residency. Computer-based, single-answer multiple-choice questions (administered via a remote proctored platform). Approximately 3.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on the chosen certification pathway (EEIC features 175 questions, while the traditional exam features 200 to 275 questions). Pass: Standardized scaled score ranging from 200 to 800, with a score of 500 or higher required to pass. Key Topics Osteopathic Principles & Practice (OPP) Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Substance Use Disorders Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine Geriatric Medicine Internal and Systemic Diseases +1 more ### OMT Performance Exam The OMT Performance Exam is a practical assessment for candidates seeking the Family Medicine and OMT certification through the AOBFP. It evaluates a physician's ability to accurately diagnose somatic dysfunctions and successfully demonstrate Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) techniques. Candidates are tested on live surrogate patients across simulated clinical cases involving the spine, extremities, and systemic diseases. Clinical performance examination (Practical OMT Assessment) 12 minutes of active testing (3 cases at 4 minutes per case), plus initial case review time Pass: Pass/Fail (Candidates must achieve a passing score on at least 2 out of the 3 clinical cases) Key Topics Spine Somatic Dysfunction & OMT Extremity Somatic Dysfunction & OMT Systemic Diseases & Viscerosomatic Reflexes Clinical Diagnosis & Landmark Identification Technique Demonstration & Professionalism How to Prepare for the AOBFP ------------------------------ A practical guide to help you plan your AOBFP preparation effectively ### Recommended Timeline 4-6 months of structured, consistent study, typically initiated during the final year of residency or immediately post-graduation. ### Study Tips - Familiarize yourself deeply with the USPSTF A and B recommendations, as preventive medicine is heavily tested. - Create a dedicated study schedule for Osteopathic Principles and Practice (OPP); do not assume you remember it perfectly from medical school. - Use spaced repetition flashcards for rote memorization topics like pediatric immunization schedules and developmental milestones. - Take timed mock exams to build endurance for the 4-hour written cognitive assessment. - For the OMT Performance Exam, practice articulating your diagnostic findings and physical setups out loud with a colleague. - Review the latest AAFP and ACC/AHA clinical guidelines, ensuring you are studying current standards of care. ### High-Yield Topics - USPSTF Screening Guidelines (A and B recommendations) - Viscerosomatic reflexes and Chapman's points - Hypertension (JNC-8/ACC/AHA guidelines) and Diabetes management algorithms - Pediatric milestones and CDC vaccination schedules - OMT setups for Muscle Energy, HVLA, and Counterstrain - Asthma (GINA) and COPD (GOLD) treatment step-up therapy ### Common Pitfalls - Neglecting the OPP/OMT section on the written exam, which can heavily impact the final score. - Failing to verbalize structural findings and treatment intents clearly during the OMT Performance Exam. - Relying on outdated clinical guidelines or older textbook editions. - Cramming in the last few weeks instead of consistent, spaced study throughout the final year of residency. - Overlooking behavioral health and preventive medicine in favor of obscure internal medicine topics. ### Recommended Resources - ACOFP Intensive Update and Board Review Course - OMT Review by Robert G. Savarese (for OPP/OMT fundamentals) - AAFP Board Review Questions - Foundations of Osteopathic Medicine (textbook) - USPSTF Prevention Task Force App or Website Study Pathways ---------------- Choose the pathway that matches your AOBFP preparation stage ### Family Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Family Medicine covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### What's Included 738 MCQ Questions 500 SAQ Questions 1,474 Flashcards 39 Podcasts 2,751 total study resources #### Exam Coverage AOBFP Written (Cognitive) Exam [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) ### Family Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Family Medicine covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### What's Included 856 MCQ Questions 722 SAQ Questions 110 SOE Questions 871 Flashcards 34 Podcasts 2,593 total study resources #### Exam Coverage AOBFP OMT Performance Exam [ Start Learning ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) Last refreshed: April 2026 Flexible Pricing Plans ------------------------ Choose the plan that fits your AOBFP study schedule ### Try Risk-Free for 5 Days Start your free trial today and get full access to all AOBFP features. **No credit card required**. Cancel anytime. No Commitment! Full platform access All study materials Analytics & tracking Cancel anytime ### Family Medicine Core Pathway Core pathway for Family Medicine covering foundational exams and initial certification steps. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $12.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 8% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $11.00 /month Billed $33.00 every 3 months Save 8% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 17% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $10.00 /month Billed $60.00 every 6 months Save 17% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Family Medicine Advanced Pathway Advanced pathway for Family Medicine covering final exams, oral assessments, and advanced clinical evaluations. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $15.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 13% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $13.00 /month Billed $39.00 every 3 months Save 13% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 20% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $12.00 /month Billed $72.00 every 6 months Save 20% vs monthly Best value for serious learners ### Family Medicine Bundle (Core + Advanced) Bundle subscription for Family Medicine: Core + Advanced pathways with all features included. #### Monthly Flexible month-to-month $20.00 /month Cancel anytime Immediate access Save 15% #### 3 Months Popular Great for exam cycles $17.00 /month Billed $51.00 every 3 months Save 15% vs monthly Perfect for exam cycles Save 25% #### 6 Months Maximum savings $15.00 /month Billed $90.00 every 6 months Save 25% vs monthly Best value for serious learners Latest AOBFP Updates ---------------------- Recent changes and developments for the AOBFP examination Early 2024 ### Flexible OMT Performance Exam Formats The AOBFP has explored virtual and hybrid formats for the OMT Performance Exam to increase candidate accessibility. Candidates should verify the current testing options directly with the AOBFP. 2023 ### Early Certification Eligibility The AOA adjusted eligibility rules to allow qualified family medicine residents to sit for the initial written certification exam during the spring of their final year of residency. Recent ### Continuous Certification Refinements The AOBFP continually updates its Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC) Component 3 (Cognitive Assessment) to utilize longitudinal assessment platforms rather than a high-stakes 10-year exam. Initial test-takers should prepare to enter this system post-certification. Updates are based on publicly available information and may not reflect the very latest changes. Always verify with the official American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians website. Related Family Medicine Exams ------------------------------- Other examinations in Family Medicine you may be interested in [ ### ABFM American Board of Family Medicine USA ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine/abfm) [ ### ABHS Arab Board of Health Specializations Middle East / North Africa ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine/abhs-family-medicine) [ ### CFPC College of Family Physicians of Canada Canada ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine/cfpc-family-medicine) [ ### FACRRM Fellowship of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine Australia ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine/facrrm) [ ### FCFP(SA) Fellowship of the College of Family Physicians of South Africa South Africa ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine/fcfp-sa) [ ### FRACGP Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Australia ](https://mdster.com/speciality/family-medicine/fracgp) Frequently Asked Questions ---------------------------- Everything you need to know about AOBFP preparation Can I take the AOBFP written exam before finishing residency? Yes, candidates are generally eligible to sit for the Written (Cognitive) Exam during the spring testing window of their third (final) year of an AOA- or ACGME-accredited family medicine residency. What is the difference between the Family Medicine and Family Medicine/OMT certifications? The Family Medicine certification requires passing only the Written Exam. The Family Medicine/OMT certification requires candidates to pass both the Written Exam and the hands-on OMT Performance Exam, demonstrating proficiency in osteopathic manipulative treatment. Can ACGME-trained DO residents take the AOBFP exam? Yes, DO graduates who complete an ACGME-accredited family medicine residency are fully eligible to take the AOBFP initial certification exam, provided they meet all other AOA requirements and have the appropriate program director approvals. Do I have to take the OMT Performance exam at the same time as the Written exam? No, candidates have the flexibility to take the Written exam first to certify in Family Medicine. They can optionally complete the OMT Performance exam at a later date to add the OMT designation to their board certification. How long is the AOBFP Written Exam? The Written Exam typically takes about 4 hours to complete. It consists of entirely multiple-choice questions covering the broad spectrum of family medicine and osteopathic principles. What happens if I fail the AOBFP exam? Candidates who do not pass can retake the exam during a subsequent testing window. While there is no immediate penalty, candidates should review the AOBFP board eligibility policies, as there are time limits within which initial certification must be achieved after completing residency. How is the AOBFP Written Exam scored? The exam is scored using a scaled scoring system based on a psychometrically validated passing standard. There is no penalty for guessing, so candidates are encouraged to answer every question on the exam. Are MDs eligible to take the AOBFP exams? MDs who have completed an ACGME-accredited residency with Osteopathic Recognition, or who meet specific alternative criteria established by the AOA, may be eligible for AOBFP certification. Interested MD candidates should contact the AOBFP directly to verify their individual eligibility. Specialty reading hub Related Family Medicine Articles ---------------------------------- Reinforce your AOBFP preparation with specialty-specific guides, exam strategy articles, and clinical revision insights from the MDster blog. [ Browse all Family Medicine articles ](https://mdster.com/blog?speciality=family-medicine) [ ![Anxiety, Depression, and Breathlessness in Severe COPD/Asthma Overlap](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/anxiety-depression-and-breathlessness-in-severe-copdasthma-overlap.jpg) Medical Education / 6 min read ### Anxiety, Depression, and Breathlessness in Severe COPD/Asthma Overlap A focused Family Medicine review of anxiety, depression, and dyspnea in severe COPD/asthma overlap, with safer prescribing, breathing retraining, and board-style pitfalls. Apr 06, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/anxiety-depression-and-breathlessness-in-severe-copdasthma-overlap) [ ![American Board of Family Medicine (Family Medicine Certification Longitudinal Assessment): Study Tips for Busy Physicians](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/american-board-of-family-medicine-family-medicine-certification-longitudinal-assessment-st.jpg) Study Tips / 6 min read ### American Board of Family Medicine (Family Medicine Certification Longitudinal Assessment): Study Tips for Busy Physicians Preparing for the ABFM FMCLA is less about marathon cramming and more about a smart quarterly system. Use these practical study tips to stay ahead, learn from feedback, and protect your certification progress. Apr 02, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/american-board-of-family-medicine-family-medicine-certification-longitudinal-assessment-st) [ ![Stimulant Use Disorder Supportive Management in Family Medicine](https://mdster.com/storage/blog/images/stimulant-use-disorder-supportive-management-in-family-medicine.jpg) Medical Education / 6 min read ### Stimulant Use Disorder Supportive Management in Family Medicine High-yield Family Medicine review of supportive stimulant use disorder care, from cardiac risk counseling to sleep, nutrition, contingency management, and ADHD overlap. Mar 30, 2026 Read article ](https://mdster.com/blog/stimulant-use-disorder-supportive-management-in-family-medicine) Ready to Pass the AOBFP? -------------------------- Join medical professionals who are preparing for the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians with MDster [ Get Started Free ](https://mdster.com/user/dashboard) No credit card required • Cancel anytime [ ](/) Master your medical exams with evidence-based learning. 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