The AMA Foundation: Building for the future

The Foundation has compiled an impressive record that is an eloquent testimony to the generosity and vision of the medical community.

Editorial. July 3, 2000.

At a time when many people view government funding as the solution to all problems, everyone involved in medical activities would be well advised to take a look at the accomplishments and goals of the American Medical Association Foundation, which is marking its 50th anniversary this year.

Founded as the American Medical Education Foundation in 1950 with the initial goal of raising funds for cash-strapped medical schools, the Foundation has compiled an impressive record that is an eloquent testimony to the generosity and vision of the medical community.

Over the years, it has provided almost $80 million in grants to the nation's medical schools and to medical students. It has provided financial support for medical research projects and for service projects that improve the immediate well-being of Americans. The Foundation also has facilitated nearly $100 million in loans to more than 40,000 medical students, interns and residents. An additional $20 million has gone to scholarships, research grants and special projects, funded by bequests, gifts and donations from individuals, industry, and public and private agencies.

The Foundation was launched by the AMA Board of Trustees with an initial contribution of $500,000 to help rescue the nation's medical schools, which were operating at a deficit. Support from the physician community -- in particular, the spouses who make up the AMA Auxiliary (now the AMA Alliance) -- was immediate and strong. Over time, the Alliance, using many fund-raising techniques developed at the local level, has been the primary source of Foundation funds for medical schools and students.

Since its restructuring in 1998 -- a move that resulted in the change to the current name and a diversification of its board -- the AMA Foundation has broadened its focus to reach out to the health needs of America. This is exemplified by its new Signature Program, which now is targeting one of the most difficult and most ignored problems of patients and their physicians: low health literacy. Millions of patients are at risk because they have trouble navigating our health care system, and because they cannot read or comprehend information about their health. Involved in this project are leading experts in literacy and health communications who are striving to identify solutions to the barriers that prevent some patients from understanding their medical needs and complying with treatment plans.

This community service initiative, however, does not mean that the Foundation has abandoned its traditional role of supporting education and research. A new seed grant program has been developed to encourage student interest and involvement in research activities and careers. At the same time, the Foundation in 2000 has earmarked more than $2 million for designated contributions to medical schools and students.

Through its first 50 years, the AMA Foundation -- a true partnership involving all components of the family of medicine -- has done much to which it can point with pride. As the profession embarks on an uncharted journey into the new millennium, the Foundation will continue to play an essential role in supporting the foundation of the world's foremost system of medical care.