Over the next years, Northern Virginia will continue to expand medicine and healthcare access to all in our area, so that our community will have the highest caliber of health and well-being in the country. To this end, the Arlington County Medical Society (ACMS) stands as a key organization fostering medical excellence, collaboration and advocacy for healthcare.
ACMS was founded in 1914 by a small group of physicians with the shared goal of improving healthcare standards in Arlington County. In its early years, our society concentrated on uniting medical professionals under a common banner of ethics, knowledge-sharing and healthcare advocacy. Today, that mission has expanded, with the ACMS serving as a critical hub for modern healthcare practices, physician networking, improving community health and raising health awareness in Northern Virginia.
Our work this year continues to uphold the highest standards in healthcare by supporting the work of our physicians in lockstep with that of the health of the community.
One of the main focuses of the society is to provide physicians with access to information, policy advocacy and a network of peers and specialists. These resources are invaluable for healthcare providers looking to stay updated on the latest medical advancements, changes in healthcare policy and finding the best care for all patients.
In addition, ACMS creates opportunities for physicians to connect with one another, allowing them to share best practices and collaborate on improving patient care. ACMS works at the local and state levels to represent the interests of local healthcare providers and patients alike. The society plays an active role in lobbying for policies that promote patient safety, access to care and the well-being of healthcare professionals.
Our medical society is deeply committed to partnering with local community healthcare organizations like VHC Health (pediatric clinic, cancer-resource center and palliative-care initiative), Culmore Clinic, Neighborhood Health, and last but not least, Arlington Free Clinic, founded by some of our very own members. Our foundation has led the charge for polio vaccines in early days, raised community breast-health awareness and funds (Sharon McGowan Breast Health Fund), and provided critical support for our local clinics (Kelly & Stephen Park Fund). Our society will continue to raise awareness on the physician shortage, to support women in medicine and to increase student access to the medical profession and career development through our scholarship fund.
Arlington County Medical Society strives to enhance the health and well-being of Northern Virginians. Through our programs, advocacy work and support for healthcare professionals, ACMS helps ensure that our local residents have access to high-quality medical care. As the healthcare landscape evolves, ACMS remains committed to its founding principles of medical excellence, professional integrity and public service.
