American Medical Association Membership Certificate - Americana

Membership certificate of the American Medical Association of Boston, Massachusetts for J.J. Hurley. The American Medical Association (AMA) is a professional organization and advocacy group for physicians and medical students in the United States. Established in 1847, its headquarters is located in Chicago, Illinois. As of 2022, the membership totaled 271,660 individuals. The AMA's declared mission is to "promote the art and science of medicine and the betterment of public health." The organization was created with the intention of elevating medical standards in the 19th century, primarily by gaining authority over medical education and licensing. Throughout the 20th century, the AMA has actively lobbied to limit the number of practicing physicians, which has contributed to a shortage of doctors in the United States. Additionally, the organization has opposed allowing physician assistants and other healthcare professionals to provide basic healthcare services. Historically, the AMA has also resisted various forms of government-sponsored health insurance.