What is Your AAMA Niche?
The AAMA is made up of a very diverse group of physicians who share the common goal of improving the wellness of our patients. Our physicians hail from all parts of the world. We have a very wide range of specialties and interests. We practice on all ages of patients and treat many conditions. This is what makes us strong. We use our different backgrounds and expertise to make the AAMA an organization that celebrates all of us. Each member adds a special touch to the organization.
The AAMA has several, unique committees that work together to help us achieve our goals. With the Board of Directors, these committees create and execute the initiatives and activities AAMA. These groups cover topics such as membership, CME, education, legislation, communications, the symposium, the review course and research. The wide range of topics discussed within these committees mirrors the diversity of our organization.
You are instrumental in the construction and functioning of our organization. The AAMA is very interested in your ideas and your views about the practice of medical acupuncture (MA). We value the hard work you do every day, and we flourish on your expertise. We would like to extend our invitation to you to join one of our committees — one that best suits your unique circumstances and interests. There is a place for each of you to create your own niche within the AAMA.
The Membership Committee is an excellent fit for any member wanting to enhance the experience of being an AAMA member. This team works diligently to provide members with tools to better their practice, to recruit new members and to harness new ideas. Our membership is varied, and members may have different needs. This committee is for you if you enjoy making connections with medical acupuncturists around the country and beyond. This niche is for those who enjoy encouraging others to be part of our amazing organization. You may also have ideas about new services you would like to see as a member; if so, this would be a great place to contribute.
The CME Committee and the Education Committee work diligently to bring the highest quality MA education to our members. These committees identify and fill the gaps in education that our members need and want. New and exciting advances in education are always a part of these discussions. This group has been prominent in the last year through their work adapting to the digital education needs of our members due to the pandemic. Despite a worldwide shutdown, these teams have arranged many webinars and lectures for our members. These groups are ideal for any member who enjoys education, either teaching or receiving. This is also an ideal place for those interested in technological advancements in education and learning. If this is you, please hop on board!
The Legislative Committee is a great fit for any member interested in the structure of MA law and policies. A lot goes into our ability to practice MA. States differ in their legal requirements for practice. There are many changes happening throughout the country regarding our practice. This committee monitors and responds to legislation put forth that may affect our practice. They also assist specific members/states that are undergoing legislative change. If you have a passion for advocating for MA, this is your home.
If you have been a member of the AAMA for a few years and you have attended any of our symposia, then you are well aware of the amazing work of the Symposium Committee. This group of members plans year-round to give us an unforgettable experience at our yearly symposium. They handle everything from choosing topics and speakers to arranging accommodations and seeing to the enjoyable experience of all those who attend. They have worked tirelessly this past year to adapt our symposium to a virtual venue. Although we will not be together in person this year, our symposium promises to be marvelous thanks to the hard work of this group. If you accel at scouting talent and enjoy planning and arranging events, this would be a great niche for you.
The Communications Committee is a group of members who work on the communication between the AAMA and our members, as well as to fellow physicians and the general public. Being connected to one another is very important, as we have all learned over the last year. There are so many ways to communicate and connect that the AAMA has developed a committee to work on bringing members many forms of communication that works for each. Technology has also advanced our ability to communicate. This group manages announcements and social media outreach on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. Communication can always be improved, and we are interested in how you communicate. If you enjoy finding new and creative ways to connect people and/or are interested in using communications technology, we welcome you!
The Review Course Committee works to create a solid board review course. This is a comprehensive course that touches on each aspect of MA. It is an incredible tutorial to take if you are preparing for the boards or if you want to review your knowledge of MA. This committee is ideal for those who enjoy comprehensive education.
The last committee is the Research Committee. This is a new group recently added to the AAMA to enhance the fellowship of our members and colleagues who are interested in advancing the efforts of MA research. The goals of this group are under construction; we would welcome your input. If you enjoy following the latest research in MA, this would be an ideal group for you. Stay tuned for more details on this committee.
As you can see, our committees are as varied as our members. Your personal expertise and character make you exceptional. We want you to help us learn and grow. We need your input and involvement to continue to be the best we possibly can be. Take some time to reflect on your own special talents and interests. We hope you’ll consider where you can find your niche — and help us advance the goals of the AAMA. (Find more details about the AAMA’s committees.)
Kendra Unger, MD, FAAMA
AAMA Vice President
