American Medical Women's Association

The American Medical Women's Association (AMWA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing women in medicine and addressing issues related to women's health. Founded in 1915 by Dr. Bertha Van Hoosen, the organization began as the Medical Women’s National Association. Over time, it has evolved to become a powerful voice for women physicians and medical students across the United States.

History

AMWA was established during a period when women physicians were significantly underrepresented in the medical field, making up less than 6% of all physicians. One of its early challenges was advocating for the inclusion of women in the military medical corps during World War I. This led to the formation of the American Women's Hospital Service, which provided medical relief in France and other countries. Although women were initially barred from serving in official military capacities, they eventually gained roles as contract surgeons.

Throughout its history, AMWA has been instrumental in promoting policy reforms and legislation that support women’s health and career advancement in medicine. It played a significant role in supporting the passage of the Sheppard-Towner Act of 1921, which provided federal funding for prenatal and child healthcare until 1929. Despite challenges such as quotas on medical school admissions and gender discrimination, AMWA has continued to advocate for greater representation of women in leadership positions within medicine.

Advocacy and Research

AMWA is involved in a range of advocacy efforts focused on issues like women's health, gender equity, and career parity. The organization supports research on health topics that affect women disproportionately, including breast cancer, cervical cancer, reproductive health, and heart disease. It also addresses broader societal issues, such as violence against women and human trafficking.

AMWA works closely with other organizations to influence healthcare policy and reforms. It has collaborated with groups like the American Medical Association (AMA) and its Women Physicians Section to increase women's participation in leadership roles within the medical profession. AMWA maintains a strong presence in the AMA through delegates who represent its interests in policy-making bodies.

Education and Publications

The organization provides educational resources and Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs on women's health topics. Its publications include the quarterly peer-reviewed "Journal of the American Medical Women's Association" and position papers on key health issues, such as gender discrimination, dependent care, and health care reform.

Leadership and Mentorship

AMWA offers leadership training and mentorship programs for young women in medicine, aiming to increase their representation in senior leadership positions. These initiatives include webinars, networking events, and scholarships for medical students. The organization also recognizes achievements through annual awards and exhibitions to uplift women in medicine.

International Presence

AMWA played a crucial role in founding the Medical Women’s International Association (MWIA), which represents female physicians from over 90 countries worldwide. This international partnership has expanded AMWA's influence beyond the United States, promoting global advocacy for women in medicine.

In summary, the American Medical Women's Association has been a pivotal force in advancing the careers of women in medicine and advocating for women's health issues for over a century. Its enduring commitment to equity, mentorship, and policy change has made it a leading voice in the medical community.