The American College of Physicians (ACP) is a national organization of internistsphysicians who specialize in the prevention, detection and treatment of illnesses in adults. As the largest medical specialty organization in the United States, ACP's membership includes over 160,000 internal medicine physicians, medical students, residents, and subspecialists.
History and Founding
Founded in 1915, the American College of Physicians was established to enhance the quality and effectiveness of health care by fostering excellence and professionalism in the practice of medicine. Throughout its century-long history, ACP has evolved into the leading voice for internal medicine, addressing the changing needs of physicians and patients while maintaining its core mission of advancing the health of adults through quality and excellence in medical practice, education, and research.
The organization was born from the merger of the Association of American Physicians and the American Clinical Congress, combining the strengths of two societies dedicated to scientific medical advancement. This merger created a powerful organization that could better serve internists and, by extension, their patients.
Mission and Values
The mission of ACP is to enhance the quality and effectiveness of health care by fostering excellence and professionalism in the practice of medicine. This mission is carried out through several key objectives:
- Promoting the highest standards of ethical medical practice
- Advocating for physicians and their patients
- Providing education and resources to enable physicians to stay current with medical advances
- Conducting research to improve patient care
- Recognizing excellence and achievement through award programs
"As internists, we are the experts in complex adult diseases. The ACP gives us the platform to learn from each other, advocate for our patients, and advance the field of internal medicine."
Membership and Benefits
ACP offers various membership categories to accommodate physicians at different stages of their careers, including Medical Student, Resident/Fellow, Associate, Member, Fellow, and Master designations. Each level comes with specific benefits tailored to the member's professional development needs.
Membership Benefits Include:
- Subscription to Annals of Internal Medicine, one of the most cited medical journals in the world
- Access to ACP Self-Assessment Programs to help prepare for board certification
- Discounts on CME courses and materials
- Networking opportunities with colleagues across the country
- Resource tools for practice management
- Advocacy representation at state and federal levels
- Patient education resources
- Laboratory reimbursement guidance
- Guidance on quality and performance measures
Publications and Resources
ACP produces a wide range of publications to keep its members informed about the latest medical research, clinical guidelines, and practice trends:
Journals:
- Annals of Internal Medicine ACP's flagship journal, widely respected as one of the top medical journals globally
- ACP Journal Club Summaries of the best evidence from internal medicine literature
- ACP Hospitalist A monthly newspaper for hospital-based internists
- ACP Internist A monthly newspaper for internal medicine physicians
Guidelines and Statements:
ACP develops clinical practice guidelines that provide evidence-based recommendations for the management of various medical conditions. These guidelines are created through rigorous review of scientific evidence and are designed to help physicians make informed clinical decisions. Additionally, ACP issues position statements on policy and ethical issues relevant to internal medicine.
Education and Certification
CME and lifelong learning are central to ACP's mission. The College offers numerous educational opportunities designed to help physicians maintain their certification, stay current with medical advances, and improve patient care:
- Internal Medicine Board Review Course An intensive review to prepare for the ABIM Internal Medicine Certification and Recertification exams
- MKSAP Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program, a comprehensive learning tool with up-to-date information and self-assessment questions
- Live CME Courses Conducted throughout the year at various locations, covering topics ranging from primary care to hospital medicine
- Online Learning Products Interactive webinars, podcasts, and online activities accessible from anywhere
- PI CME Performance Improvement Continuing Medical Education programs that help physicians assess and improve their practice
Advocacy and Policy Work
ACP maintains a robust advocacy program to address policy issues affecting physicians and their patients. The organization advocates at the federal and state levels on matters including:
- Physician payment reform and Medicare reimbursement
- Health insurance coverage expansion
- Medical liability reform
- Patient safety and quality improvement
- Workforce development and medical education funding
- Health information technology adoption
- Public health initiatives
ACP's advocacy efforts are guided by policy statements developed by its elected leadership and approved by its Board of Regents. The organization maintains offices in Washington, D.C., to work directly with lawmakers and regulators, and relies on its members to serve as grassroots advocates in their home states and districts.
Conferences and Events
ACP hosts several major meetings each year, providing opportunities for education, networking, and professional development:
- Internal Medicine Meeting ACP's annual scientific meeting featuring hundreds of educational sessions, exhibits, and networking opportunities
- Chapter Meetings Local events organized by ACP's 80+ chapters across the United States and internationally
- Leadership Day An annual event where ACP members meet with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to advocate for internal medicine priorities
- Board Review Courses Intensive preparation sessions for certification exams
These events not only provide valuable clinical updates but also foster professional relationships and mentorship opportunities among members at all career stages.
Leadership and Governance
ACP is governed by a Board of Regents, led by the President and Board Chair. The Board of Regents is responsible for setting ACP policy, overseeing finances, and guiding the organization's strategic direction. Regents are elected by the ACP membership and serve staggered terms.
In addition to the Board of Regents, ACP has numerous committees and councils addressing specific areas of concern to internists and their patients. These include the Council of Subspecialty Societies, the Council of Resident/Fellow Members, the Ethics and Professionalism Committee, and many more.
ACP also maintains a robust chapter structure, with over 80 chapters across the United States and international regions. Chapters provide local educational programs, advocacy activities, and networking opportunities for members.
Future Initiatives and Goals
As it moves into its second century, ACP continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of internists and the healthcare landscape. Key focus areas for the future include:
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion in the medical profession
- Physician well-being and combating burnout
- Value-based care implementation
- Telehealth and digital medicine integration
- Climate change and health
- Health care access and equity
- Social determinants of health
Through these initiatives and ongoing programs, the American College of Physicians remains dedicated to its mission of enhancing the quality and effectiveness of health care by fostering excellence and professionalism in the practice of medicine, ensuring that internists can continue to provide the best possible care for their patients.
