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 submit a resolution proposal for consideration
The UMAS resolution proposal submission form is intended for use by UMAS members and other sections’ leadership to submit resolution proposals for consideration by the UMAS Governing Council. This form can also be used to solicit resolution drafting guidance from experienced UMAS policymakers. For the 2026 policymaking cycle for the Annual Meeting of the HOD in June 2026, the submission form opens on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, and closes on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026. Questions? Contact us at [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
- Underrepresented in Medicine Advocacy Section Internal Operating Procedures (PDF)
- AMA Constitution and Bylaws (PDF)
