Organization of U.S. physicians.
It was founded in 1847 "to promote the science and art of medicine and the betterment of public health." It has about 250,000 members, about half of all practicing U.S. physicians. It disseminates information to its members and the public, operates as a lobbying group, and helps set medical education standards. Its publications include Journal of the American Medical Association , American Medical News , and journals on medical specialties.