Members of the Underrepresented in Medicine Advocacy Section (UMAS) have a unique opportunity to shape AMA policy and action on issues that affect physicians, their practices and their patients.
New to the policymaking process? Access our education module, How AMA Policy is Made, to learn how UMAS members influence the AMA’s policymaking efforts.
Become an UMAS member
UMAS meets biannually (June and November) to consider resolutions and reports on issues of interest to physicians and to elect the UMAS Governing Council. Any AMA member who identifies as a member of an underrepresented group in medicine is encouraged to join. Become a member of the UMAS.
Submit a resolution
UMAS members may submit resolutions for consideration at the Annual (June) and Interim (November) Meetings of the UMAS. Submit resolutions and direct questions to [email protected].
Resolution writing guidelines
A resolution is a proposal that asks the AMA to take a position and/or an action. A resolution consists of at least one directive accompanied by supporting statements or facts. Reports and resolutions are submitted for consideration at each meeting of the AMA House of Delegates (HOD).
The actions of the HOD can:
- Establish AMA policy on health care issues.
- Modify the AMA Bylaws or the AMA Constitution.
- Direct the AMA Board to take specific actions.
- Create legislative proposals and lobbying efforts, national medical recommendations or other activities through which the AMA affects health policy.
How to write a resolution
Use the resolution template (DOC) to document your resolution.
The basic elements of a resolution include:
- Title
- Author(s)
- Whereas clauses
- Resolved clauses
- References
- Relevant AMA policy
- Fiscal note
How to submit a resolution
Reference the resolution submission checklist (PDF) before submitting materials.
Email completed resolutions to UMAS at [email protected].
Presenting a resolution
Prior to the HOD meeting where accepted resolutions are discussed:
- Talk to other delegates to recruit support for your resolution.
- Prepare a brief statement of introduction for the reference committee hearing.
- Be prepared to counter opponents.
- Be at the reference committee hearings on time.
For further resources or questions on resolutions, contact UMAS at u[email protected].
Policy resources
- PolicyFinder: Search for policies adopted by the AMA House of Delegates
- Federal and State Correspondence Finder: Search for AMA testimony, comment letters and sign-on letters
- Litigation Center Case Summary Finder: Search for information on AMA Litigation Center cases
- AMA Constitution and Bylaws (PDF)
