AMA vs AMS

[Bryan Buchan]

I was just curious if people more versed than I am about medical organizations. As an anti-corporatist, (pro single payer) which doctors should I be more scared of? Those who belong to the American Medical Association or those who belong to the American Medical Society? Are their doctors who belong to neither? Or is there a membership I should look out for when choosing a doctor? Thanks in advance.

[blondeatlast]

1. I think it's silly to be afraid of membership in a professional organzation.

I suppose you could just not go the doctor, but that might not be such a good idea, either.

:shrug:

There are some strange-ass posts here this morning.

[Taverner]

5. Yeah, that Chamber of Commerce sure is no threat to us...

:eyes:

[Avalux]

2. I am not familiar with a national American Medical Society.

There are state organizations called societies, however the national organization is the American Medical Association, they publish the Journal of the Americal Medical Association (JAMA), which is an esteemed publication in the medical community. Here's their website:

http://www.ama-assn.org/

As an anti-corporatist, I would choose a physician based on local reputation/assocations and whether or not you can get along with him/her. Look up their political contributions too. :hi:

[Bryan Buchan]

4. Thanks

I know the AMA came out strong against single-payer during the recent national healthcare debate and were criticized for it. But I never heard of the AMS either. Professional organizations who align themselves politically I find troubling...so I though I would ask if there is really anything to be concerned about. And thanks I will look up political contributions, GREAT idea...much more effective for what I am getting at/looking for in a doctor, someone who is more interested in medicine and care giving than denying the uninsured/getting paid for care giving.

Thanks!

[KT2000]

3. Most medical societies

are chartered to protect the business side of the profession - including the AMA. Also, doctors who may not agree with their policies join for a variety of reasons.

Medical societies do try to inject themselves into debates as some kind of authority, but they are not scientific or humanitarian organizations.

Ask people who they think is a good doctor - that is your best bet.

Physicians for Social Responsibility is an organization that works against nuclear threats and for recognition of climate change.