History of the American Board of Ophthalmology*

Edward Jackson, MD

“…4 O'Day and Ladden confirm that the concept is mentioned but a thorough evaluation of the entire speech confirms that the comment may have been more incidental than a major issue of the address. A comparison of Vail's comment with Jackson's lifetime pursuits to improve the quality of ophthalmic education as a leader in all of the major ophthalmology organizations of his time reveals it was Jackson who was the driving force.…”

The Influence of Derrick T. Vail Sr, MD, and Edward M. Jackson, MD, on the Creation of the American Board of Ophthalmology and the Specialist Board System in the United States

“…Opticians meanwhile were reorganizing themselves as optometrists and were seeking state licensure to perform refraction and other tasks. 7 Optometry quickly emerged as a threat to ophthalmology, and efforts were stepped up in the AOS, in the Ophthalmic Section of the AMA (OSAMA), and in the newly formed AAOO to block its recognition in state legislatures. [26][27][28][29] Preoccupation with optometry continued through the early years of the 20th century as plans for dealing with specialization began to crystallize.…”

“…5 In 1939, Beach 6 quotes from the speech as evidence for the pivotal role of Vail in the establishment of the ABO. Cordes and Rucker 7 in 1962 repeat the claim. It seems that these 2 articles drew attention to Vail.…”

Perspectives on Medical Specialization

“…It provided the first examinations leading to diplomas for certification of specialists, although some members were certified on the basis of their reputation as late as 1939. 49 Other specialty boards soon developed, reaching a total of 16 by 1940. Since then, 7 more have been formed, the most recent being the American Board of Emergency Medicine in 1976 (see Table 2) .…”