Question: Is it more important for an MD to be a member of the AMA or of their specialty association, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists?
From: DMG
Answer: There are certainly benefits for a physician to belong to either the AMA or a specialty association. The AMA is involved in advocacy and efforts to effect healthcare policies. The AMA, the largest medical association, includes physicians from many specialties and provides free subscriptions to JAMA, American Medical News, and Morning Rounds. These publications provide new research and treatment findings. Medical students, residents/MDs/DOs may join the AMA. I looked at several specialty association sites and found that each has criteria for membership specific to that specialty. These include CME credits, years of training (dependent on membership level). Here too, members are provided the latest research and treatment findings specific to that area. It is difficult to say that one is more important than the other but I would want my physician to have access to the latest information specific to my problem or diagnosis.
Ruthann Russo, PhD, JD, MPH, RHIT, is a healthcare expert with more than 20 years of experience working in and advising healthcare organizations.
Comments (1)
The response was very middle line without offending the AMA or the questioner. Still it does not answer the question but merely gives the questioner something to ponder. It might help if it could be understood that the opinions of the AMA are limited. They have a history of ostracizing anyone who does not agree with them. It is correct that they may have the latest information but still there are some things well known in the alternative community that aren't accepted by the AMA. The AMA and other such organizations are fine but they do have limits. Membership in them guarantees certain standards but does not guarantee that the MD is the best for the condition. It might be useful to research the philosophy of the organizations that the doctor belongs and the philosophy and practice of the doctor and before coming to a decision.
Posted by Yoshinao | August 13, 2008 9:59 PM
Posted on August 13, 2008 21:59