The American Medical Association, founded in 1847, represents more than 190 state societies and medical specialty associations, including internal medicine, family physicians, obstetricians and gynecologists, pediatric and emergency medicine. The AMA is the largest association of physicians—both MDs and DOs—and medical students in the U.S. Our mission is to “promote the art and science of medicine and the betterment of public health.”

All 50 states are represented in the AMA’s House of Delegates, as well as branches of the armed forces, federal health care departments and other national medical associations.

AMA members play a role in shaping the future of medicine through a wide range of opportunities and activities.

AMA impact

1. House of Delegates (HOD)

   1. The HOD is the AMA’s legislative body, convening bi-annually to set policy that addresses the most critical topics and issues in medicine.

2. Sections

   1. AMA sections are interest-based groups offering members opportunities to shape policy, network with peers and grow professionally.

3. Councils

   1. AMA councils provide information and recommend policies to AMA leadership and the HOD on topics and issues impacting physicians and patients.

4. Recovery Plan

   1. The AMA Recovery Plan for America’s Physicians targets issues of critical importance to the profession as it looks beyond the pandemic.

5. Health Care Advocacy

   1. The AMA advocates at federal and state levels on health care issues affecting patients and physicians.