The doctor association is a group of doctors who come together to discuss medical issues and work for the betterment of the profession. They have various functions such as the advancement of medical knowledge, promoting public health and advocating for patient rights. They also support research and publish their findings in medical journals. The most prominent physician associations in the United States include the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians and the American Osteopathic Association.

Many doctor associations have a mission statement that provides a framework for the large and small decisions they make. Those who are leaders in these organizations often have a clear understanding of their values and their goals. This allows them to make choices that are in line with their beliefs and help the organization reach its desired outcome.

In addition, the organization is responsible for a number of other important tasks including conducting medical education, publishing medical research and serving as a lobbying body for the medical profession. The AMA also provides career and networking opportunities for its members as well as insurance discounts for starting and maintaining a practice.

Founded in 1885 by seven physicians, the AMA was established for “the improvement of the science and practice of medicine”. Its goals include the pursuit of medical knowledge through experimentation and discovery, and the application of this knowledge to clinical medicine. Membership is competitively selected and physicians are encouraged to share their scientific discoveries with others in order to advance medical progress. The AMA is also a significant political player and donated $1.6 million to candidates in the last cycle, giving most of this money through its PAC.

It is also an international organization. In fact, during World War II, the AMA House served as a focal point where doctors from all allied countries met to compare medical conditions, service and training in their respective countries. The AMA has a rich history of addressing social and political issues, and has worked tirelessly to advance women in the profession.

The AMA is the voice of America’s doctors, upholding the ideals of compassion and self-sacrifice that typify this noble calling. It is the primary source for networking, professional development and policy representation for America’s physicians. The AMA represents all specialties and is the most powerful and influential voice of physicians in the country.

When the AMA’s founding fathers met to form their group in the eighteen-forties, the United States produced five times as many doctors per capita as some European countries and there was fierce competition for patients. Petty squabbling among the faculty erupted into bloody duels. But the squabble that spawned this scuzzy skirmish eventually resulted in the formation of the American Medical Association and a new, more collegial era for the profession.

While it is important that doctors maintain their ties to local and state societies, there is no substitute for the unified voice of the AMA in national politics. And, while the proliferation of specialty societies may be attractive to some, their growing ties with industry raise concerns about independence and integrity.