The ABMM was established in 1959 to test the expertise of microbiologists seeking to direct public health or clinical microbiology laboratories. Board-certified Diplomates are adjudged capable to direct public health and clinical microbiology laboratories.
ABMM certification is recognized by federal and state governmental agencies as a significant component toward meeting licensure requirements to direct laboratories engaged in the microbiological diagnosis of human disease. It is recognized under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 final rule and in all 12 states that require licensure: California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
