American osteopathic Association

The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) is the primary professional organization for osteopathic physicians (DOs) in the United States. Founded in 1897, the AOA promotes public health, encourages academic scientific research, serves as the primary certifying body for DOs, and is the accrediting agency for osteopathic medical schools.

History

The AOA was established in 1897 in Kirksville, Missouri, by a group of osteopathic physicians led by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, the founder of osteopathic medicine. The association was formed to advance the philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine and to ensure its continued growth and acceptance in the medical community.

Mission and Vision

The AOA's mission is to advance the philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine by promoting excellence in education, research, and the delivery of quality, cost-effective healthcare within a distinct, unified profession.

Their vision emphasizes the distinctiveness of osteopathic practices and values, aiming for osteopathic physicians to be recognized as the physicians of choice for patients and to be leaders in the healthcare community.

Activities

• Certification: The AOA is the main certifying body for osteopathic physicians in the U.S., providing board certification in various specialties and subspecialties.
• Accreditation: It accredits osteopathic medical schools and sets academic standards and curriculum requirements.
• Advocacy: The AOA advocates on behalf of osteopathic physicians at the federal and state levels on a variety of healthcare issues.
• Research: The AOA funds and promotes research in osteopathic medicine, focusing on the unique benefits and practices of the discipline.
• Public Health Campaigns: The AOA often sponsors public health campaigns to educate the public about health issues and the benefits of osteopathic care.

Membership

Membership in the AOA is open to osteopathic physicians, osteopathic medical students, and other professionals interested in the osteopathic medical profession. Benefits include access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy on behalf of the profession.

Controversies

Like many large organizations, the AOA has faced its share of controversies over the years. These have included debates over the scope and nature of osteopathic practices, relationships with allopathic medical organizations, and issues related to the certification and accreditation processes.

See also

• Osteopathic medicine
• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
• American Medical Association

References

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• Official Website of the American Osteopathic Association
• Gevitz, N. (1982). The DO's: Osteopathic Medicine in America. Johns Hopkins University Press.

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