Abstract
Ten years have passed since Japanese board certification system for head and neck surgeons was established. Patients and operations have become more centralized at the board-certified facilities. The board certification system seems to have been welcomed by many Japanese head and neck surgeons. However, it was not found that human resources had become centralized and that surgeons could reduce their working hours. Additionally, there are many problems in provincial areas. We must continue to look for a more sustainable system in the future.