Who Does What
Understand who is responsible along the journey from medical school through residency, licensure, and board certification.
Responsibility Matrix
No Single Organization Controls Physician Training
Many people assume one organization controls physician education, licensing, certification, funding, and employment. In reality, these responsibilities are divided among separate, independent organizations, each with a different role and none in charge of the others. Accreditation is just one piece of the larger ecosystem.
The ACGME Accredits Programs, Not Physicians
The ACGME establishes educational standards and accredits residency and fellowship programs. Its role is to evaluate training environments and ensure programs meet established requirements. It does not license physicians, certify specialists,
or employ residents.
Different Organizations, Different Responsibilities
State medical boards license physicians, specialty boards certify expertise, and hospitals employ residents and fellows. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify where decisions are made and who is responsible for different aspects of
physician training.
Quick Reference Guides
Who Does What
The seven entities that govern physician education and training — and where accountability actually sits.
GME Briefing Sheet
Everything a policymaker, journalist, or community member needs to know.
Media Backgrounder
For journalists, editors, and communications professionals covering GME and physician training.
State vs. Federal Roles
A jurisdiction guide for policymakers, advocates, and media.
