Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

American College of Physicians

The American College of Physicians (ACP) is a nonprofit professional organization founded in 1915 by Dr. Heinrich Stern to advance the science and practice of internal medicine, the branch of medicine focused on adult disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.^[1]^[2] With 162,000 members including internists, subspecialists, residents, and medical students across more than 172 countries, ACP represents the largest medical specialty society worldwide and the second-largest physician group in the United States.^[3]^[4] Its headquarters are located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.^[5] ACP's core activities encompass developing evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to inform physician decision-making, providing continuing medical education and maintenance of certification resources, and advocating for policies that enhance healthcare quality and access while controlling costs.^[6]^[7] It publishes the Annals of Internal Medicine, a leading peer-reviewed journal established in 1927 that disseminates original research and reviews in internal medicine.^[8] The organization also confers fellowship status (FACP) as a mark of professional distinction, recognizing physicians for excellence in patient care, teaching, and contributions to the field.^[9] Notable achievements include ACP's leadership in promoting high-value care—defined as maximizing health outcomes relative to costs—and issuing guidelines that have influenced standards for conditions like low back pain and hypertension, grounded in systematic reviews of empirical data.^[6] Controversies have arisen from its stances, such as reaffirming opposition to physician-assisted suicide based on ethical concerns and inadequate palliative care alternatives, and critiquing unchecked financial profit motives in U.S. healthcare as threats to patient-centered practice.^[10]^[11] These positions reflect ACP's emphasis on causal mechanisms in medicine and skepticism toward interventions lacking robust evidence, amid broader institutional debates over policy and resource allocation.^[12]

History

Founding and Early Development (1915–1950)

The American College of Physicians (ACP) was established in 1915 by Heinrich Stern, MD, a German-born internist practicing in New York City, who sought to create an organization modeled after the Royal College of Physicians in London to advance internal medicine in the United States.^[13] ^[14] Stern, having visited the London institution in 1913, viewed it as a means to elevate professional standards, promote postgraduate education, and differentiate competent internists from general practitioners amid rapid medical advancements post-World War I.^[13] ^[15] The ACP was incorporated on May 11, 1915, in New York, with Stern recruiting a small initial group of physicians; the inaugural meeting convened on June 25, 1915, at the Hotel Astor, where attendees were designated as founding Fellows and Reynold Webb Wilcox, MD, was elected first president.^[15] ^[16] Early expansion focused on national recruitment, drawing members from urban centers including Detroit, Philadelphia, and Chicago, while enforcing exclusivity by barring surgeons and emphasizing clinical expertise in internal medicine.^[15] In 1918, headquarters relocated from New York to Chicago for logistical advantages in coordinating activities.^[15] The organization admitted its first female members in 1920, reflecting gradual inclusivity amid broader societal shifts, and initiated annual meetings, with sessions held in New York (1916), Pittsburgh (1922), Philadelphia (1923), and St. Louis (1924) to foster knowledge dissemination through lectures on physical diagnosis and hospital standardization.^[15] Publications began modestly with Annals of Medicine in 1920 (three issues), evolving into Annals of Clinical Medicine in 1922 and formalized as Annals of Internal Medicine in 1927, serving as a core vehicle for scholarly exchange.^[17] Governance structures solidified in the early 1920s with the creation of a Board of Regents and Board of Governors to oversee standards and masterships, the first awarded to James M. Anders, MD, in 1923.^[15] The Great Depression posed severe financial strains from 1929 to 1940, including investment losses and dues collection difficulties, yet under Executive Secretary Edward R. Loveland—a non-physician administrator—membership and assets grew through prudent fiscal management, diversified investments, and sustained educational programs.^[18] ^[1] World War II further tested resources, with physician members serving in military roles, but the ACP maintained operations, emphasizing continuing education to address wartime medical demands and postwar reconstruction in internal medicine practice.^[19] By 1950, the organization had achieved steady institutional maturation, with expanded fellowship criteria and a foundation for specialization amid rising emphasis on scientific rigor in diagnostics and therapeutics.^[20]

Post-War Expansion and Specialization (1950–1998)

Following World War II, the American College of Physicians (ACP) underwent significant expansion, fueled by the return of veteran physicians trained in military hospitals and the broader growth in medical education supported by the G.I. Bill, which increased the number of medical graduates entering internal medicine. Membership rose steadily as demand for specialized internal medicine expertise grew amid technological advances like antibiotics and diagnostic tools, shifting practice from generalism toward subspecialization.^[1]30134-1/fulltext) To accommodate administrative and educational needs, ACP enhanced its infrastructure in Philadelphia, approving a new wing for its headquarters in 1959 with completion in 1961, followed by reconstruction after a 1966 fire and a five-story addition finished in 1972 at a cost of $1.3 million, funded partly by member assessments. These developments supported expanded activities, including larger annual meetings and continuing medical education programs tailored to post-war physicians adapting to subspecialty roles in areas such as cardiology and endocrinology. By the 1970s, ACP's focus on specialization was evident in its collaboration with the American Board of Internal Medicine to certify subspecialists, addressing the post-war trend where most internal medicine residents pursued fellowship training rather than general practice.^[5]30134-1/fulltext) In 1967, ACP introduced the Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program (MKSAP), the first edition of which was developed from a 1966 Board of Regents initiative to help internists evaluate and update knowledge across internal medicine and its subspecialties through self-testing and syllabus materials. This program became a cornerstone of ACP's educational efforts, promoting lifelong learning amid rapid subspecialty advancements. Throughout the 1980s, ACP further specialized by issuing early clinical practice guidelines, such as those on preventive services and chronic disease management, while advocating on health policy issues like physician payment reforms under Medicare, reflecting its evolving role in guiding evidence-based internal medicine practice up to the late 1990s.^[21]

Merger with ASIM and Modern Era (1998–Present)

In 1997, the American College of Physicians (ACP) and the American Society of Internal Medicine (ASIM) announced negotiations for a merger to unify the field of internal medicine amid evolving healthcare economics and policy challenges.^[22] The organizations officially merged on July 1, 1998, forming the ACP-ASIM, which combined ACP's emphasis on clinical education and standards with ASIM's focus—established in 1956—on the economic, political, and social dimensions of medical practice.^[23] ^[24] This consolidation aimed to amplify advocacy efforts, streamline resources for over 100,000 members at the time, and provide a stronger collective voice against fragmented specialty influences in national policy debates.^[25] Post-merger, the organization issued positions such as opposition to converting Medicare to a defined contribution model in 1999, citing risks to vulnerable beneficiaries' access and outcomes.^[26] The merged entity operated as ACP-ASIM until 2002, when it reverted to the ACP name in 2003 to reaffirm its historical identity as a professional college dedicated to advancing internal medicine's scientific and ethical foundations, rather than prioritizing advocacy branding.^[27] ^[24] This rebranding followed internal deliberations on maintaining credibility in clinical leadership while retaining ASIM's policy expertise, leading to enhanced participation in bodies like the American Medical Association.^[28] Membership expanded to represent approximately 161,000 physicians and medical students by the 2020s, solidifying ACP's status as the largest U.S. medical specialty society.^[23] In the modern era, ACP has prioritized evidence-based clinical guidelines, ethical position papers, and policy advocacy on issues including adult immunization, physician burnout, and healthcare delivery reforms.^[29] The 2015 High Value Care initiative promoted cost-conscious practices to improve patient outcomes without compromising quality, reflecting data-driven responses to rising healthcare expenditures.^[1] Continuing pre-merger efforts, ACP has advocated for measures to reduce firearm-related injuries, emphasizing public health data on prevention strategies.^[30] Recent positions, such as a 2025 paper on empowering physicians through collective action, address systemic barriers like administrative burdens and payment reforms to sustain patient-centered care.^[31] ACP's policy compendium, updated as of October 2025, encompasses over 100 stances on topics from medical education to equity in care access, grounded in member input and empirical reviews.^[32]

Organizational Structure

Governance and Leadership

The Board of Regents serves as the primary governing body of the American College of Physicians (ACP), responsible for managing the organization's business affairs and establishing its main policies. Composed of elected officers and regents, the Board oversees strategic direction, financial stewardship, and operational decisions, ensuring alignment with ACP's mission to advance internal medicine and improve patient care.^[33]^[34] ACP's leadership structure includes key executive officers elected by the Board of Regents, such as the President, Chair of the Board, Treasurer, and Chair-elect. The President, currently Jason M. Goldman, MD, MACP, leads the organization in implementing policies and representing ACP externally, while the Chair, Rebecca A. Andrews, MD, MACP, presides over Board meetings and provides continuity in governance. The Executive Committee, detailed in ACP Bylaws Article VII, Section IX, comprises these officers along with additional members to handle interim decisions between full Board sessions.^[34]^[35]^[36] The Board of Governors acts as an advisory body to the Board of Regents, consisting of elected representatives from ACP's regional chapters and affiliates, totaling approximately 79 members. These governors provide input from grassroots physician networks on policy matters, reflecting diverse regional perspectives within internal medicine practice.^[33] Supporting governance, the Governance Committee recruits and evaluates candidates for the Board of Regents, implements bylaw changes, and ensures effective structures through oversight of committees and councils. New regents are selected periodically, with terms beginning in April following nominations, emphasizing leadership experience and commitment to ACP's objectives.^[37]^[38]

Regional Chapters and Affiliates

The American College of Physicians divides its membership into 84 chapters and regions, encompassing U.S. state-based chapters, sub-regional divisions in larger states such as California's Northern, Central Northern, Central Southern, Southern I, and Southern II chapters, and international chapters including those in Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, Brazil, and Bangladesh.^[39]^[40] These chapters serve as localized extensions of the national organization, enabling members to engage in region-specific professional activities tailored to local healthcare needs, demographics, and regulatory environments.^[39] Each chapter is led by a Governor, elected by chapter members for a four-year term, who acts as the liaison between local members and ACP's national leadership, including representation on the Board of Governors that advises the Board of Regents on policy and strategic matters.^[40]^[41] Governors, such as those recently appointed for international chapters in 2025, facilitate chapter operations including annual meetings, continuing medical education credits, and advocacy on state or regional issues like licensure and reimbursement.^[40]^[42] Chapters conduct activities such as scientific sessions, leadership development for early-career physicians through councils in approximately 40 U.S. chapters, and coordination with national initiatives on ethics and practice standards. For instance, the Pennsylvania Chapter features dual Governors for Eastern and Western regions to address diverse member interests across 24 states' worth of influence.^[42] International chapters similarly adapt ACP resources to global contexts, with Governors elected to align local efforts with the organization's evidence-based guidelines.^[40] Beyond chapters, ACP engages affiliates through formal collaborations with 29 public health and science-based organizations, collectively representing 1.5 million members, to pursue joint advocacy on diagnostics, quality improvement, and policy reforms such as the Coalition to Improve Diagnosis and Treatment (ACT).^[43] These affiliates include patient advocacy groups and specialty societies that amplify ACP's influence without direct governance ties, focusing on shared empirical priorities like reducing diagnostic errors through data-driven coalitions.^[43] Additionally, ACP offers affiliate membership categories for post-training physicians and non-physicians, providing access to resources without full voting rights in chapters, to broaden professional networks.^[44]^[45]

Membership

Eligibility Criteria and Categories

Membership in the American College of Physicians is structured into categories corresponding to career stages and professional roles, with eligibility centered on involvement in internal medicine or allied fields.^[7] Medical student membership requires enrollment in a medical school recognized by the American Medical Association and included in the World Directory of Medical Schools, offered free of dues from July 1 to June 30 annually.^[46] Resident and fellow-in-training membership is available to individuals in accredited internal medicine residency programs or subspecialty fellowships, with a membership year running from July 1 to June 30 and annual dues of $145, non-prorated regardless of join date.^[47] Physician membership eligibility applies to post-training physicians engaged in clinical practice, research, or other professional activities in internal medicine, a combination of internal medicine and related specialties (such as pediatrics or family medicine), or neurology; dues are tiered at $324 annually for those seven or fewer years beyond medical school and $565 for eight or more years. Physicians practicing in unrelated specialties qualify instead for Physician Affiliate membership, which provides similar benefits but reflects their non-core alignment with internal medicine.^[44] Non-physician affiliate membership extends to licensed allied health professionals, including physician assistants, nurse practitioners, advanced practice nurses, registered nurses, pharmacists, and clinical psychologists, provided they hold active credentials for practice; annual dues are $155.^[48] Advancement within physician categories to designations such as Associate (typically for recent graduates transitioning from training), Member, or Fellow (FACP, requiring demonstrated ethical practice, contributions to medicine, and often board certification) builds on basic eligibility but involves separate criteria evaluated by ACP's Credentials Subcommittee.^[49] International applicants follow analogous requirements, adapted for equivalent non-U.S. qualifications and without mandatory American Board of Internal Medicine certification for entry-level status.^[50]

Membership Statistics and Trends

The American College of Physicians (ACP) maintains a membership of approximately 162,000 individuals, including physicians specializing in internal medicine and related subspecialties such as cardiology and gastroenterology, as well as residents, fellows-in-training, and medical students.^[7] This composition underscores the organization's focus on advancing internal medicine, with physician members forming the core and trainee categories supporting professional development pathways.^[51] Membership eligibility emphasizes board certification or equivalent qualifications for full physician status, while reduced or complimentary options exist for early-career and student affiliates to encourage long-term engagement.^[52] Membership numbers have demonstrated stability in recent years, hovering around 161,000 to 162,000 as reported in official ACP communications and chapter affiliations from 2024 to 2025, with no significant growth or decline noted amid broader physician workforce expansions.^[53]^[54] This plateau follows historical expansion, including the 1998 merger with the American Society of Internal Medicine, which integrated subspecialist-focused members and bolstered overall scale, though precise pre-merger comparative data remains limited in public records.^[1] Retention efforts, such as enhanced digital resources and continuing education incentives, aim to sustain these levels against competitive pressures from other specialty societies and evolving healthcare demands. International membership, comprising a subset of the total, supports global outreach but constitutes a smaller proportion without detailed breakdown in annual disclosures.^[55]

Publications

Flagship Journals and Peer Review Process

The flagship journal of the American College of Physicians (ACP) is Annals of Internal Medicine, established in 1927 and published biweekly.^[8] It focuses on original research, reviews, guidelines, and clinical observations in internal medicine, with a mission to promote excellence in medicine through peer-reviewed scholarship.^[8] Ranked among the most widely cited medical journals worldwide, Annals receives over 10,000 manuscript submissions annually and maintains a selective acceptance rate of approximately 7-10%.^[56] ^[57] ACP supports additional specialized publications under its journals portfolio, including Annals of Internal Medicine: Clinical Cases for case-based learning and the archived ACP Journal Club, which summarizes evidence from high-impact studies across 120 journals.^[58] ^[59] However, Annals of Internal Medicine remains the primary flagship outlet, distinguished by its influence on clinical practice guidelines and policy, such as ACP's low back pain recommendations.^[60] The peer review process at Annals of Internal Medicine begins with editorial triage to assess suitability, followed by assignment to external reviewers selected for expertise in the topic area.^[8] Manuscripts undergo blinded peer review, typically involving 2-3 reviewers, with editors synthesizing feedback to recommend acceptance, revision, or rejection; the process averages 4-6 weeks from submission to initial decision.^[61] Since March 25, 2024, submissions have been managed via the eJournalPress system, which streamlines tracking and communication while prohibiting the use of artificial intelligence by editors or reviewers in evaluation or editing.^[61] Reviewers provide structured comments on scientific validity, originality, and clinical relevance, with transparency emphasized through public disclosure of editorial decisions in some cases, such as rapid responses to published articles.^[62] This rigorous, multi-stage approach aims to uphold methodological standards, though it has been critiqued in internal reflections for potential delays in disseminating urgent findings.^[57]

Guidelines, Newsletters, and Digital Resources

The American College of Physicians (ACP) develops clinical practice guidelines through its Clinical Guidelines Committee, employing a systematic evidence-based methodology that incorporates randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and expert consensus where evidence is limited.^[63] This process, updated in 2019, emphasizes GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) criteria to classify recommendation strength and evidence quality, with guidelines undergoing external peer review and public comment periods.^[63] Notable examples include the 2021 guideline on noninvasive treatments for low back pain, recommending nonpharmacologic therapies as first-line options, and guidance on topics such as hypertension management and opioid therapy for chronic pain.^[60] These guidelines are freely accessible on the ACP website and via a dedicated mobile app launched for iOS and Android, which aggregates recommendations for point-of-care use.^[64] ACP publishes several newsletters to disseminate updates on clinical practice, policy, and organizational activities. I.M. Matters from ACP, issued 10 times annually, covers internal medicine advancements, ACP initiatives, and physician-relevant news.^[65] The ACP Advocate Newsletter focuses on advocacy efforts, health policy developments, and legislative updates affecting physicians.^[66] Additionally, the ACP Global Newsletter provides international perspectives on internal medicine, with archives available for members, highlighting global engagement and educational opportunities.^[67] Key digital resources include the ACP Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program (MKSAP), an all-digital platform released in its subscription-based format in February 2025, featuring text-based content, over 1,200 multiple-choice questions, multimedia elements, and performance analytics developed by nearly 400 physician contributors.^[68] MKSAP supports continuing medical education through self-directed learning and is accessible via web and mobile apps.^[69] Other offerings encompass the Online Learning Center, providing discounted or free CME activities searchable by topic and format, and integrated access to DynaMedex, an evidence-based decision support tool for rapid clinical queries.^[70] ^[71] These resources prioritize member access while promoting evidence-driven practice improvement.

Education and Professional Development

Continuing Medical Education (CME) Programs

The American College of Physicians (ACP) delivers continuing medical education (CME) programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to award AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, supporting lifelong learning and maintenance of certification (MOC) for internal medicine physicians.^[72] These programs emphasize evidence-based content tailored to clinical practice, board preparation, and state relicensure requirements, with most activities free or discounted for ACP members.^[73] ACP's Online Learning Center provides access to hundreds of CME-eligible activities, searchable by topic, format, and state-specific mandates, including modules on cardiology, diagnostic reasoning, ethics, and podcasts.^[70] Participants earn credits through self-paced online courses, journal-based learning from Annals of Internal Medicine (such as "In the Clinic" series and audio discussions), and recorded sessions from live events.^[74] Live offerings include the annual Internal Medicine Meeting, where attendees claim credits for sessions and pre-courses, often fulfilling up to dozens of hours per event.^[75] A cornerstone program is the Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program (MKSAP), updated periodically with the latest edition, MKSAP 19, released in recent years for ABIM certification and MOC preparation.^[76] MKSAP features thousands of multiple-choice questions, high-value care cases, and digital tools; learners earn "Earn-As-You-Go" CME credits by achieving at least 50% accuracy on question sets, with corresponding MOC points for ABIM diplomates.^[77] This program integrates multimedia reviews and aligns with internal medicine blueprints, enabling physicians to claim credits incrementally while addressing knowledge gaps.^[78] Additional resources include ethics and professionalism modules, such as those based on Annals articles, offering 0.5 to several credits per completion, and board review course recordings derived from ACP's live Internal Medicine Board Review events.^[79] Members access transcripts of completed activities dating back six years, facilitating compliance tracking and integration with state boards.^[73] These programs prioritize practical, high-yield education without commercial bias, as ACP maintains ACCME standards for independence in content development.^[72]

Clinical Guidance and Evidence-Based Resources

The American College of Physicians (ACP) develops clinical practice guidelines and related recommendations to assist internists in decision-making, emphasizing synthesis of the highest-quality evidence from systematic reviews. These guidelines cover topics such as management of stable ischemic heart disease, screening for colorectal cancer, and treatment of low back pain, with recommendations graded by strength and quality using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) methodology. ACP explicitly states its intent to highlight areas where evidence is insufficient, promoting judicious use of resources and avoidance of low-value interventions. In April 2024, ACP became the first U.S. organization designated as a GRADE Center, recognizing its rigorous processes for evidence appraisal and guideline formulation.^[80] Guideline development follows a structured protocol overseen by the ACP Clinical Guidelines Committee (CGC), involving topic selection based on clinical importance and evidence gaps, commissioning or reviewing systematic evidence summaries, and panel deliberation with external peer review. The process incorporates GRADE to assess evidence certainty and recommendation strength, distinguishing between high-quality randomized trials and observational data, while disclosing conflicts of interest among panelists. ACP produces four main formats: full clinical guidelines with detailed systematic reviews; clinical guidance statements for rapidly evolving topics with limited evidence; best practice advice for accepted practices lacking sufficient trials; and practice points for concise, evidence-informed suggestions. All undergo public comment and alignment with standards like AGREE II for transparency and methodological rigor.^[63]^[81]^[6] Beyond guidelines, ACP offers evidence-based tools including the free ACP Clinical Guidelines mobile app, which provides point-of-care access to recommendations and supporting evidence summaries for over 100 topics as of 2023. High Value Care resources target reducing overuse, with toolkits, case studies, and implementation guides derived from systematic reviews of diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy, such as recommendations against routine imaging for uncomplicated low back pain. ACP also maintains living systematic reviews for select conditions, updating evidence assessments in real-time to reflect new trials, and integrates these into digital platforms for clinicians. These resources prioritize patient-centered outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with first-line therapies supported by meta-analyses over anecdotal or industry-influenced practices.^[64]^[82]^[6]

Advocacy and Policy Activities

Healthcare System Reform Positions

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has advocated for comprehensive reform of the U.S. healthcare system to achieve universal coverage while emphasizing cost control, reduced administrative burdens, and improved care delivery. In its 2020 position paper "Envisioning a Better U.S. Health Care System for All," the ACP called for systematic changes, including transitioning away from the fragmented employer-based insurance model toward one providing essential benefits to all residents with lower administrative costs.^[83] This vision prioritizes physician-led, team-based care models supported by redesigned payment systems that reward value over volume.^[83] The ACP endorses pathways to universal coverage through either a single-payer system or a robust public option integrated with heavily regulated private insurance. It argues that such reforms could reduce overhead costs—citing potential savings exceeding $200 billion annually if insurance administrative expenses matched levels in traditional Medicare or Canada's system—and ensure equitable access without discrimination based on personal characteristics.^[84] While supporting single-payer as viable, the ACP has not mandated it exclusively, instead highlighting the need for evidence-based evaluation of implementation challenges like provider reimbursement and system transitions.^[83]^[85] Regarding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010, the ACP has consistently supported its core goals of expanding access but recommended targeted enhancements, such as broadening eligibility for premium subsidies, auto-enrollment in public plans, and closing coverage gaps in non-expansion Medicaid states. In a 2019 position paper, it proposed laying the foundation for further reforms by improving ACA marketplaces, including public plan options to compete with private insurers and reduce premiums.^[86]^[87] The organization views the ACA as a step forward but insufficient for true universality, advocating for its strengthening amid ongoing legal and political challenges.^[88] ACP positions also address payment and delivery reforms, opposing fee-for-service dominance in favor of alternative models like accountable care organizations that integrate primary and specialty care. It supports national workforce policies to address shortages, particularly in internal medicine, and opposes expansions of non-physician scopes of practice without physician oversight to maintain care quality.^[89] These stances reflect a long-standing commitment, dating to at least 1992, to system-wide reorganization for universal access, though critics note potential trade-offs in innovation and choice under increased government involvement.^[90]

Public Health and Physician Support Initiatives

The American College of Physicians (ACP) advocates for strengthened public health infrastructure, asserting that sustained national investment is essential for effective disease surveillance, response capabilities, and community health protection. In a July 2023 position paper, ACP endorsed modernizing the U.S. public health system through enhanced funding, workforce development, and a national data infrastructure enabling real-time, bidirectional information exchange between public health agencies, clinicians, and laboratories to improve outbreak detection and intervention.^[91] ^[92] ACP has pursued targeted public health efforts, including a November 2023 initiative to advance equitable management of obesity as a chronic disease, which involves creating clinician resources, educational materials, and cross-specialty collaboration to standardize evidence-based treatments like pharmacotherapy and behavioral interventions. In an April 2025 position paper on rural health, ACP supported policies addressing disparities such as limited access to specialists, transportation barriers, and social determinants, recommending expanded telehealth, loan repayment programs, and research into rural-specific care models.^[93] ^[94] To support physicians amid rising burnout rates, ACP maintains a Physician Well-Being and Professional Fulfillment program offering individual tools including podcasts, articles, and self-assessment resources focused on stress management, work-life balance, and resilience-building strategies. The organization outlines 10 evidence-based culture change interventions for practices and institutions, such as optimizing electronic health record workflows, fostering leadership accountability for workload equity, and implementing team-based care to mitigate administrative burdens contributing to exhaustion.^[95] ^[96] ACP has documented burnout's scope in internal medicine, with a May 2025 study revealing high prevalence rates among U.S. physicians, driven by factors like excessive documentation demands and inadequate systemic support, to guide targeted reforms. Through these initiatives, ACP emphasizes addressing burnout as an occupational hazard requiring both personal coping mechanisms and institutional overhauls, rather than solely individual resilience.^[97]^[98]

Controversies and Criticisms

Debates Over Policy Advocacy

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has faced significant debate over its advocacy on firearm violence prevention, particularly following its 2018 position paper recommending evidence-based policies such as universal criminal background checks for firearm purchases, restrictions on civilian access to assault weapons, and improved access to mental health services to reduce gun-related injuries and deaths. The National Rifle Association (NRA) responded critically via Twitter, urging "self-important anti-gun doctors to stay in their lane and get competent at saving lives instead of pushing failed policy agenda," prompting a widespread physician backlash under the hashtag #ThisIsOurLane, where clinicians shared experiences treating gunshot victims to affirm gun violence as a public health crisis warranting professional input.^[99] ^[100] Critics, including gun rights advocates, argued that such positions exceed physicians' expertise, politicize medicine, and overlook data showing no causal link between proposed restrictions and reduced violence rates, while supporters cited epidemiological evidence of firearms as a leading cause of death among youth, with over 4,000 pediatric firearm fatalities annually as of 2020. This exchange highlighted broader tensions over whether medical organizations should prioritize clinical neutrality or engage in upstream prevention advocacy, with some ACP members questioning the organization's role in contentious social issues. ACP's positions on healthcare system reform have also sparked contention, notably its 2020 endorsement of universal coverage as essential to address the U.S. system's inefficiencies, including support for exploring single-payer models alongside public-private options to achieve near-universal access while reducing administrative burdens estimated at 25-31% of national health expenditures.^[101] Opponents, including policy analysts from conservative think tanks, contended that single-payer advocacy would disrupt existing coverage for millions, impose rationing, and fail to control costs without addressing underlying drivers like malpractice litigation and provider incentives, potentially mirroring inefficiencies in systems like Canada's with wait times exceeding 20 weeks for specialists.^[102] Internal ACP discourse and external editorials critiqued the stance for underemphasizing market-based reforms, arguing it overlooks empirical failures of government-run systems in curbing per-capita spending, which remains 50% higher in the U.S. despite outcomes gaps.^[84] Some physician members have accused ACP leadership of partisan tilt, particularly under Democratic administrations, though analyses of policy statements reveal mixed ideological alignments, with conservative-leaning views on regulatory burdens but progressive emphases on equity and coverage expansion.^[103] ^[104] These debates underscore criticisms that ACP's advocacy, while grounded in member surveys and health outcomes data, risks alienating segments of its 160,000-strong membership by venturing into ideologically charged arenas, potentially undermining perceived neutrality amid systemic biases in academic medicine toward left-leaning policy frames. Proponents counter that physician silence on determinants like violence and uninsured rates—numbering 28 million in 2023—constitutes ethical abdication, supported by oaths emphasizing population health. Ongoing member feedback has prompted ACP to refine advocacy, balancing clinical priorities with diverse viewpoints to maintain organizational cohesion.

Criticisms of Guideline Development and Influence

Critics have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest in the American College of Physicians' (ACP) guideline development process, despite the organization's policies for disclosure and management. A 2022 analysis of U.S. clinical practice guidelines found that financial relationships with industry were common among physician authors, including those from major organizations like the ACP, and were often not accurately disclosed, potentially undermining the perceived independence of recommendations.^[105] The ACP's own 2019 methods paper acknowledges the challenge of mitigating bias from health care-related interests among panel members, requiring recusal from voting on related topics, but external reviews have noted that such processes may not fully eliminate intellectual or indirect influences.^[106] ACP guidelines have faced scrutiny for inconsistencies with evidence or specialist consensus, particularly in pain management. The 2017 ACP guideline on low back pain prioritized nonpharmacologic therapies and discouraged opioids and acetaminophen, citing systematic reviews, but subsequent studies questioned the efficacy of some recommended interventions like acetaminophen, which showed no significant benefit over placebo in reducing pain. ^[107] Critics, including pain specialists, argued that the emphasis on avoiding pharmaceuticals amid the opioid crisis contributed to undertreatment of acute pain, influencing insurer denials and physician reluctance to prescribe, without sufficient long-term outcome data to support the restrictions.^[108] The ACP's guideline influence extends to policy, where recommendations are cited by payers and regulators, amplifying concerns over ideological alignment rather than strict empiricism. A 2025 study analyzing 524 ACP policy statements from 2008–2023 classified 31.5% as liberal-leaning and only 1.1% as conservative-leaning, with liberal positions predominant on topics like public health and social issues that intersect with clinical guidance.^[104] For instance, the ACP's support for gender-affirming care as evidence-based, reiterated in its 2024 position paper on LGBTQ+ health, has drawn criticism for overlooking emerging evidence from reviews like the UK's Cass Report (2024), which highlighted weak methodological quality in youth gender dysphoria studies and recommended caution; detractors contend this reflects institutional alignment with progressive advocacy over causal evaluation of long-term harms versus benefits.^[109] Such critiques underscore broader debates on whether ACP guidelines adequately balance empirical rigor against external pressures, including from academia and advocacy groups prone to systemic biases, potentially prioritizing consensus over dissenting data from specialized fields like urology or endocrinology.^[110]

Impact and Legacy

Contributions to Internal Medicine

The American College of Physicians (ACP) has advanced internal medicine primarily through its dissemination of peer-reviewed research and development of evidence-based clinical guidelines, influencing diagnostic and therapeutic practices for adult diseases. Established in 1927, the ACP's flagship journal, Annals of Internal Medicine, serves as a key platform for publishing original research, reviews, and commentaries that promote excellence in patient care and physician education, with a mission to enable practitioners to improve outcomes through rigorous evidence.^[8] As the most cited journal in general internal medicine, it achieved a 2024 impact factor of 15.3, reflecting its role in synthesizing high-quality studies on topics ranging from cardiovascular disease management to preventive screening strategies.^[8] Complementary publications like ACP Journal Club, which distills evidence from over 120 clinical journals into actionable summaries for internists, further amplify the ACP's impact by bridging research gaps and fostering evidence-driven practice.^[58] A cornerstone of the ACP's contributions lies in its clinical practice guidelines program, initiated in 1981 as one of the earliest systematic efforts in the United States to produce evidence-based recommendations tailored to internal medicine.^[81] These guidelines, developed via the ACP's Guidelines Committee, evaluate systematic reviews and apply methodologies like GRADE to offer precise directives on conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease, thereby standardizing care and reducing unwarranted variations in treatment.^[111] For instance, the program's emphasis on high-quality evidence has informed national protocols, with ACP guidelines cited in policy and clinical decision tools for their focus on patient-centered outcomes over anecdotal or low-evidence interventions. In April 2024, the ACP earned designation as the first U.S. organization certified as a GRADE Center, underscoring its rigorous processes for minimizing bias and enhancing transparency in guideline formulation.^[80] Beyond publications and guidelines, the ACP has elevated internal medicine's empirical foundation by recognizing and incentivizing research through awards like the annual convocation honors for outstanding contributions to the field, which have spotlighted innovations in areas such as diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic efficacy since the organization's founding in 1915.^[112] This sustained emphasis on verifiable data and causal mechanisms—prioritizing randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses over less robust sources—has helped internal medicine evolve as a discipline grounded in measurable improvements in morbidity and mortality rates for common adult conditions.^[113]

Influence on U.S. Healthcare Policy

The American College of Physicians (ACP) exerts influence on U.S. healthcare policy primarily through issuing position papers, providing congressional testimony, and lobbying efforts aimed at advancing evidence-based reforms in coverage, payment systems, and care delivery. These activities have shaped debates on key legislation, such as expansions under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicare adjustments. For instance, ACP supported the ACA's passage in 2010, highlighting its provisions for primary care bonuses and reduced reliance on specialty care, which aligned with the organization's emphasis on internal medicine.^[114]^[115] ACP has advocated for universal health insurance coverage, proposing models including enhanced subsidies, Medicaid expansions, and public options to achieve near-universal access while controlling costs. In 2021, the organization praised the American Rescue Plan Act for temporarily broadening ACA premium subsidies and eligibility, which reduced uninsured rates and built on prior reforms. Similarly, ACP endorsed health provisions in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, including drug price negotiations for Medicare and subsidy extensions, demonstrating its role in sustaining ACA frameworks amid political challenges.^[114]^[116]^[117] On Medicare physician payments, ACP has lobbied Congress to avert annual cuts, urging linkage to the Medicare Economic Index for inflation adjustments and support for bills like the Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act to stabilize reimbursements. The organization critiques the sustainable growth rate formula's legacy, advocating value-based models that accommodate diverse practices while reducing administrative burdens, influencing discussions on transitioning from fee-for-service to performance-aligned systems.^[118]^[119] ACP's "Better is Possible" framework, released in 2020, calls for comprehensive reforms addressing coverage gaps, workforce shortages, and social determinants, impacting policy discourse by comparing proposals from administrations and endorsing single-payer elements for administrative efficiency, as seen in international models. These efforts, while not always resulting in direct legislative enactment, have informed bipartisan consensus on primary care valuation and equity, though critics note potential overemphasis on government expansion at the expense of market-driven innovations.^[83]^[84]

References

[1]
History of ACP | American College of Physicians
The ACP's history includes its founding by Dr. Heinrich Stern, the belief that it was needed for internal medicine, and the growth during the Great Depression.
[2]
[PDF] ACP Facts Background The American College of Physicians (ACP ...
The American College of Physicians (ACP) is a national organization of internal medicine physicians – specialists who apply scientific knowledge and clinical ...
[3]
About ACP - American College of Physicians
ACP is a global community of internal medicine specialists, the largest medical specialty organization in the US, with 162,000 members, and committed to ...Leadership · Who We Are · Future Worldwide Meetings · Board of Governors
[4]
Who We Are | Mission and Goals | Core Values | ACP
The American College of Physicians (ACP) is the largest medical specialty organization in world with 162,000 members in more than 172 countries across the globe ...
[5]
A Brief History of ACP's Headquarters
The American College of Physicians (ACP) was founded in 1915 and headquartered in New York City. ACP's Founder, Dr. Heinrich Stern, and all of the College's ...
[6]
Clinical Practice Guidelines and Recommendations | ACP
ACP's goal is to provide clinicians with recommendations based on the best available evidence; to inform clinicians of when there is no evidence.
[7]
Membership & ACP Benefits - American College of Physicians
ACP provides cutting-edge educational resources, access to world-class medical journals, and the opportunity to earn MOC points.Medical Students · Become an ACP Fellow (FACP) · Physician Membership
[8]
About Annals of Internal Medicine - ACP Journals
Established in 1927 by the American College of Physicians (ACP), Annals of Internal Medicine is the premier internal medicine journal.Missing: achievements | Show results with:achievements
[9]
Become an ACP Fellow (FACP) - American College of Physicians
Fellowship in the American College of Physicians is a peer-reviewed and peer-supported credential that is a public reflection of excellence within the internal ...Requirements for Advancing to... · Application Materials · Welcome New Fellows!
[10]
American College of Physicians Reaffirms Opposition to ...
Sep 19, 2017 · American College of Physicians reaffirms opposition to legalization of physician-assisted suicide. ACP also calls for improved hospice and palliative care.Missing: achievements | Show results with:achievements
[11]
Salve Lucrum: The Existential Threat of Greed in US Health Care
The American College of Physicians (ACP) in their 2021 position paper Financial Profit in Medicine raised concern that the unchecked profit motive in ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[12]
Ethical Guidance for Physicians and Health Care Institutions on ...
Sep 26, 2023 · Grateful patient fundraising is ethically problematic. This American College of Physicians position paper explores these issues and offers guidance.
[13]
American College of Physicians Ethics Manual: Part I - ACP Journals
In 1913 Dr. Heinrich Stern, a visionary young physician, visited the Royal College of Physicians of London and recognized that the United States needed an ...
[14]
THE SCHOLARSHIP OF HEINRICH STERN, FOUNDER OF ... - NIH
Heinrich Stern, a German immigrant, attended medical school in the United States, established a practice in Manhattan, and became a prominent clinician, ...
[15]
ACP begins: College history from 1915 to 1924
The year 1920 marked 2 big events in ACP history: The ... American College of Physicians. © 2025 I.M. Matters from ACP and American College of Physicians.
[16]
The First Annual Session | History of ACP
The first formal meeting of the officers of the ACP began at 5:00 pm on June 25, 1915 at the Hotel Astor in New York City.
[17]
ACP History: Annals of Internal Medicine (Part One) 1927 -1940
The dissemination of medical knowledge has been an essential goal of the American College of Physicians since its founding in 1915.
[18]
ACP during the Great Depression (1929 -1940)
ACP, under the leadership of Executive Secretary Edward R. Loveland, successfully weathered the Great Depression. Read how he did it here.Missing: 1920s 1940s
[19]
The American College of Physicians: The First 75 Years
Durant T. Days of our years: a short history of medicine and the American College of Physicians, 1915-1965. Presidential address presented at the Golden ...
[20]
American College of Physicians Ethics Manual. Part 1: History
Dr. Stern's vision led to the founding of the American College of Physicians in New York City in 1915. The ensuing years saw steady growth.
[21]
A Brief Introduction to the Origins of MKSAP | ACP Online
The College began work on its first Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program (MKSAP) in late 1966. Dr. Butt selected “subspecialty chairmen” in nine medical ...Missing: 1950-1998 | Show results with:1950-1998
[22]
ACP, ASIM Announce Merger Negotiations | Newswise
The American College of Physicians and the American Society of Internal Medicine announced negotiations to merge into a single organization in the latter ...
[23]
ACP Facts | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
The ACP is a national organization of internal medicine physicians, with 162,000 members, aiming to enhance healthcare quality and effectiveness.
[24]
1995-2004: The big merger | I.M. Matters from ACP
1995-2004: The big merger. After years of effort and negotiation, ACP and the American Society of Internal Medicine officially merged in 1998.Missing: specialization 1950-1998
[25]
US physician groups agree merger plan: - Citeline News & Insights
Aug 18, 1997 · The American College of Physicians and the American Society of Internal Medicine intend to merge in the latter half of 1998.
[26]
[PDF] Converting Medicare to a Defined Contribution Program, An ACP ...
ACP-ASIM is particularly concerned about the impact a defined contribution program would have on less wealthy beneficiaries. One of the abiding strengths of the ...
[27]
ACP-ASIM becomes simply ACP - Modern Healthcare
Apr 2, 2003 · The ACP existed prior to 1998, when it merged with the American Society of Internal Medicine to form the ACP-ASIM. The Philadelphia-based ...
[28]
ACP & AMA Move Closer - Emergency Medicine News
“ACP-ASIM has increased its representation and participation in the AMA for many reasons,” said Bernard M. Rosof, MD, the chairman of the Board of Regents, ...
[29]
Medical Ethics Issues: Position Papers & Resources | ACP
ACP publishes ethics position papers on a broad range of health care ethics issues including clinical ethics, professionalism, the delivery of health care, ...Missing: present | Show results with:present
[30]
Merger memories and abiding realities | I.M. Matters from ACP
Regarding improving the lives of patients, ACP championed policies to reduce gun violence even before the 1998 merger with ASIM, and this continues to be an ...
[31]
Empowering Physicians Through Collective Action: A Position Paper ...
Apr 29, 2025 · In this paper, ACP explores ways to enable physicians to advocate for their patients, their colleagues, and themselves to rekindle the patient– ...
[32]
[PDF] acp-policy-compendium.pdf - American College of Physicians
Oct 10, 2025 · The American College of Physicians (ACP) Policy Compendium is arranged by headings of broad category areas relating to health care. These ...
[33]
Board of Regents, Board of Governors, Leadership & Staff | ACP
The Board of Regents manages the business and affairs of ACP. It is the main policy-making body of the College. The Board comprises elected Officers, who serve ...Missing: structure | Show results with:structure
[34]
Board of Regents | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
The 2025-2026 Board of Regents includes President Jason M Goldman, MD, MACP and Chair, Board of Regents Rebecca A Andrews, MD, MACP.
[35]
Governance Leadership | ACP Online
President - Jason M. Goldman, MD, MACP; Chair, Board of Regents - Rebecca A. Andrews, MS, MD, MACP; Treasurer - Michael J. Tan, MD, MACP, FIDSA ...<|separator|>
[36]
Executive Committee of the Board of Regents | ACP Online
The Executive Committee includes Rebecca A. Andrews (Chair), Jason M. Goldman (President), Michael J. Tan (Treasurer), Charles J. Hamori (Chair-elect), and Jan ...
[37]
Governance Committee | ACP Online
Assure effective governance structures and processes through education, recruitment, oversight and evaluation of the Board of Regents, Committees and Councils.
[38]
Governance Committee seeks candidates for 2026 Board of ...
Jul 22, 2025 · ACP's Governance Committee is currently selecting candidates for the Board of Regents (BOR), with new Regents set to join in April 2026.
[39]
Chapters & Regions | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
The membership of ACP is divided into 84 chapters and regions, each uniquely tailored to the needs and interests of its members.Frequently Asked Questions · California Chapter · Michigan Chapter · Ohio Chapter
[40]
ACP Welcomes New International Chapter Governors
ACP recognizes our new international governors, who will lead their chapters and be part of the Board of Governors for the next four years.
[41]
Chapter Governor | Arizona ACP
As Governor, Dr. Markus serves as the official representative of the College for the Arizona Chapter, providing a link between members at the local level and ...
[42]
PA Chapter Information – Pennsylvania American College of ...
Welcome from the Pennsylvania Chapter Governors ; Linda Thomas-Hemak, MD, FAAP, FACP Governor, ACP Eastern Region ; Ibrahim I. Ghobrial, MBBCh, FACP Governor, ACP ...
[43]
ACP Collaborations | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
American College of Physicians. Membership ... There are also 29 public health and science- based affiliates representing a million and a half members.
[44]
Physician Membership Details | ACP Online
American College of Physicians. Membership ... Physician Membership Details. Information for Physicians, Fellows, Masters and Physician Affiliates.
[45]
Affiliate Membership Details | ACP Online
American College of Physicians. Membership. Benefits for. Physicians · Residents & Fellows-in-Training · Medical Students ...Missing: "regional | Show results with:"regional
[46]
Medical Student Membership Eligibility | ACP Online
Students enrolled in medical schools that are recognized by the AMA and are included in the World Directory of Medical Schools can join ACP free of charge.
[47]
Residents and Fellows-in-Training Membership | ACP
American College of Physicians. Membership ... categories for resident members. Prizes include monetary awards and ...Missing: eligibility | Show results with:eligibility
[48]
Non-Physician Affiliate Membership | ACP Online
American College of Physicians. Membership. Benefits for. Physicians · Residents & Fellows-in-Training · Medical Students ...Missing: criteria categories
[49]
https://acpservices.org/sites/default/files/shared/documents/leadership-day/23/ld23-acp-fact-sheet.pdf
[50]
[PDF] MEMBERSHIP for - American College of Physicians
Through involvement in local and regional chapters and collaborations with ... of the American College of Physicians. To preserve and maintain the ...
[51]
Join ACP - Membership - American College of Physicians
American College of Physicians. Membership. Benefits for. Physicians · Residents & Fellows-in-Training · Medical Students ...Missing: eligibility | Show results with:eligibility
[52]
ACP Membership Dues & Fees - American College of Physicians
American College of Physicians. Membership ... International Membership · Affiliate Membership · More on Membership Dues/Fees.
[53]
Record High Internal Medicine Residency Match Reflects Vital Role ...
Mar 21, 2025 · ACP membership includes 161,000 internal medicine physicians, related subspecialists, and medical students. Internal medicine physicians are ...
[54]
Membership | New York Chapter of the American College of ... - nyacp
Apr 24, 2025 · Its membership of 161,000 includes internists, internal medicine sub-specialists, and medical students, residents, and fellows. More than 10,000 ...
[55]
International Membership | ACP Online
American College of Physicians. Membership. Benefits for. Physicians · Residents & Fellows-in-Training · Medical Students ...
[56]
Annals of Internal Medicine - ACP Journals
Established in 1927, Annals is the flagship journal of the American College of Physicians. Media Contacts. Members of the press may request copies of tip ...
[57]
Submitting Your Work to Annals: Author-Friendly Features
Oct 31, 2023 · Annals has instituted several features intended to make the manuscript submission, peer review, and publication process experience less painful and more ...
[58]
ACP Journals | American College of Physicians
View the latest content from the Annals of Internal Medicine, Annals of Internal Medicine: Clinical Cases, and archived articles from the ACP Journal Club ...Annals of Internal Medicine · Clinical Cases · Information for Authors · AboutMissing: list | Show results with:list
[59]
ACP Journal Club - Annals of Internal Medicine
120 Journals Currently Read*. Acad Emerg Med Acta Orthop Age Ageing AHRQ Comparative Effectiveness Reviews Am J Cardiol Am J Epidemiol Am J Gastroenterol
[60]
Annals of Internal Medicine - ACP Journals
Noninvasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline From the American College of PhysiciansIssues · Information for Authors · CME / MOC · AboutMissing: key | Show results with:key
[61]
Annals of Internal Medicine: Information for Authors - ACP Journals
Annals of Internal Medicine transitioned to a new manuscript submission and peer review system, eJournalPress, on March 25, 2024.Manuscript Submission and... · Preparing Manuscripts for... · General Information
[62]
Peer Review: Insights Gleaned From Observing the Editorial ...
Nov 19, 2024 · Here, we provide practical suggestions for those new to peer review based on our experience as Editorial Fellows at the Annals of Internal Medicine.
[63]
The Development of Clinical Guidelines and Guidance Statements ...
Jun 11, 2019 · This article presents an update of the CGC's 2010 paper outlining policies, methods, and presentation format of ACP's clinical guidelines and guidance ...
[64]
ACP Clinical Guidelines - Apps on Google Play
Available for free, the ACP Clinical Guidelines app includes recommendations from ACP's clinical practice guidelines and guidance statements. Users can ...
[65]
I.M. Matters from ACP - American College of Physicians
I.M. Matters from ACP provides news for internal medicine physicians, covering practice, policies, and ACP activities, and is published 10 times per year.
[66]
ACP News | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
ACP Advocate Newsletter · Get Involved: Advocacy in Action · State Health Policy · Current Public Policy Papers · Search the ACP Policy Library · Store.
[67]
Global Newsletter Archive | ACP - American College of Physicians
Access ACP's Global Newsletter archive and view newsletters.
[68]
ACP announces the release of the all-new ACP MKSAP , a ...
Feb 3, 2025 · The new ACP MKSAP is a state-of-the-art learning system developed by a team of nearly 400 physician clinical editors, question writers, and peer reviewers.Missing: 1950-1998 | Show results with:1950-1998
[69]
ACP MKSAP on the App Store
ACP MKSAP consists of well-researched text sections and thousands of exam-like multiple-choice questions along with hundreds of figures, charts, and tables to ...
[70]
Online Learning Center | ACP Online
Explore a wide-ranging library of online CME and MOC activities that are free or discounted for ACP members, aimed at improving your knowledge and practice.Missing: digital | Show results with:digital
[71]
DynaMedex: A Benefit of ACP Membership
ACP and DynaMed collaborated to provide our members free access to the most current, evidence-based clinical information resource, DynaMedex.Missing: digital | Show results with:digital
[72]
CME & MOC - American College of Physicians
ACP provides members with free and discounted high-quality educational programs for lifelong learning and to earn both CME credits and MOC points.Internal medicine... · Earn CME Credits · Online Learning Center
[73]
Earn Internal Medicine CME Credits | ACP
Earn CME credits by attending live meetings, working online, reading and completing journal activities, or watching course recordings on your own schedule.
[74]
Earn CME Credits - American College of Physicians
Earn CME credits by attending live meetings, working online, or watching course recordings on your own schedule. ACP offers many CME options.
[75]
Claim CME & MOC Points | ACP Internal Medicine 2026
Attendees can claim CME credits/ABIM MOC points for Internal Medicine Meeting 2025 and Pre-Courses and obtain State CME certificates.
[76]
MKSAP 19 | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
The Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program (MKSAP) has been the most trusted resource in continuous learning for internal medicine physicians and residents.MKSAP 19 Tracker · Preview MKSAP 19! · Using MKSAP 19 for the... · ResourcesMissing: 1950-1998 | Show results with:1950-1998
[77]
MKSAP 19 - CME, MOC, and CPD Information for Physicians
To earn CME credit or to apply for MOC points, answer at least one of two questions correctly (earning a score of at least 50%).
[78]
ACP MKSAP | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
ACP's Medical Knowledge Self-Assessment Program (MKSAP®) meets your needs for continuous learning through regularly updated syllabus content.
[79]
Ethics and Professionalism CME and MOC | ACP
Physicians can earn CME credit for successfully completing the module based on the Annals of Internal Medicine: Ethics and Professionalism Learning Module.
[80]
ACP becomes first organization in US to earn GRADE designation ...
Apr 18, 2024 · The ACP has been designated as a GRADE Center based on its developmental processes for guidelines, becoming the first organization in the US to receive such a ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[81]
The Development of Clinical Practice Guidelines and Guidance ...
Aug 3, 2010 · The steps in the ACP guideline development process include selection of topics; determination of the scope of the topic; review of the evidence ...
[82]
High Value Care Resources for Clinicians | ACP
ACP provides free resources to help physicians implement High Value Care principles into practices and focus on optimal diagnostic & treatment strategies.
[83]
Better is Possible: ACP's Vision for the U.S. Health Care System
This overview paper seeks to answer the question, “What would a better health care system for all Americans look like?' In a series of vision statements, ACP ...
[84]
The American College of Physicians' Endorsement of Single-Payer ...
A single-payer reform that reduced insurance overhead to 2% (the level for Canada and traditional Medicare) could save more than $200 billion annually. In ...
[85]
The American College of Physicians' endorsement of single payer
Jan 21, 2020 · The American College of Physicians envisions a health care system where everyone has coverage ... Achieving universal coverage would be ...
[86]
[PDF] Improving the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act's Insurance ...
A position paper from the American College of Physicians recommends ways to improve the Affordable Care Act and lay the foundation for health care reforms ...
[87]
Improving the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act's Insurance ...
May 7, 2019 · In this position paper, the American College of Physicians recommends action to enhance and expand eligibility for health insurance financial subsidies.
[88]
ACP Advocacy | Where We Stand | Access to Care
The American College of Physicians has a long-standing goal of increasing access to care in the United States. We support the goals of the Affordable Care Act ...
[89]
Physician Workforce and Scope of Practice | ACP Online
ACP supports adoption of a national workforce policy that would help ensure the number & mix of physician specialties meets healthcare needs of our ...
[90]
Universal Insurance for American Health Care: A Proposal of the ...
The American College of Physicians (ACP) believes that universal access to care can be achieved only through system-wide reform in the organization and ...
[91]
Modernizing the United States' Public Health Infrastructure
Jul 18, 2023 · ACP supports the development of a modern national public health data infrastructure capable of real-time bidirectional data sharing among public ...
[92]
Public Health Infrastructure and Funding | ACP Online
The American College of Physicians believes it is imperative that we as a nation invest in and maintain a strong public health infrastructure.
[93]
American College of Physicians Promotes Equitable Obesity Care
Nov 3, 2023 · The new initiative aims to raise the profile of obesity disease management across all medical specialties and develop resources for clinicians improve care.<|separator|>
[94]
Improving Health and Health Care in Rural Communities: A Position ...
Apr 1, 2025 · ACP supports public policy efforts to identify, research, and address the health and health care challenges that uniquely, differently, and/or ...
[95]
Individual Physician Wellness and Burnout Tools | ACP
Wondering how to help physician burnout? Our physician burnout tools consist of Podcasts, TED Talks, blogs & more to improve physician wellness. Start now.
[96]
Culture Change Interventions to Reduce Physician Burnout | ACP
Reduce physician burnout and improve well-being with these 10 culture change interventions. The American College of Physicians (ACP) is concerned about the ...
[97]
Burnout Prevalence Among U.S. Internal Medicine Physicians
May 6, 2025 · Burnout Prevalence Among U.S. ... Copyright © 2025 American College of Physicians. All Rights Reserved. conditions of usePRIVACY POLICY. ✓.
[98]
Addressing physician burnout at the systems level - PMC - NIH
Jan 22, 2018 · The American College of Physicians (ACP) also recently increased its efforts to address burnout, as part of its Physician Well-Being and ...
[99]
After NRA Mocks Doctors, Physicians Reply: 'This Is Our Lane' - NPR
Nov 11, 2018 · Doctors have been tweeting about their experiences treating victims of gun violence after the NRA mocked a position paper by the American College of Physicians.
[100]
Doctors Revolt After N.R.A. Tells Them to 'Stay in Their Lane' on Gun ...
Nov 13, 2018 · Doctors described gruesome stories of treating victims of gun violence in response to a tweet by the National Rifle Association that scolded “anti-gun doctors.”
[101]
Envisioning a Better U.S. Health Care System for All: Coverage and ...
For physicians, a single-payer system could lessen administrative burden and free time for direct patient care. Uncompensated care costs resulting from lack of ...
[102]
Single-Payer is Not the Solution to America's Health Care Problems
The adoption of a single-payer system would guarantee a massive disruption of existing public and private health care coverage and delivery systems.Missing: College | Show results with:College<|separator|>
[103]
ACP engages in the political process because it is necessary
This criticism, not surprisingly, comes from ACP members who self-identify as Trump-supporting, conservative/Republican-leaning voters. Yet over my 38 years ...
[104]
Analysis of the Political Viewpoint of Policy Statements From ... - NIH
Jun 13, 2025 · “In essence, the ACP's position might be seen as aligning more with a conservative viewpoint on regulatory issues, advocating for professional ...
[105]
Financial Conflicts of Interest among U.S. Physician Authors of 2020 ...
Oct 21, 2022 · Financial relationships with industry are common among US physician authors of clinical practice guidelines and are often not accurately disclosed.
[106]
Disclosure of Interests and Management of Conflicts ... - ACP Journals
Aug 20, 2019 · The goal of this article is to describe the methods used for collecting DOI and managing COIs during the development of clinical guidelines and guidance ...Missing: controversies | Show results with:controversies
[107]
Study Finds Acetaminophen, Muscle Relaxers Less Effective for ...
Mar 29, 2023 · Research has shown that acetaminophen (Tylenol) is not effective at reducing back pain compared to a placebo and that there is “low-quality evidence” that ...
[108]
Clinical guidelines for low back pain: A critical review of consensus ...
We consider inconsistencies in recommendations between these guidelines and some of the possible reasons for these; we also discuss the challenges faced in ...
[109]
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Other Sexual and ...
Jun 25, 2024 · In this position paper, the American College of Physicians (ACP) reaffirms and updates much of its long-standing policy on LGBTQ+ health.
[110]
The Vexing Problem of Guidelines and Conflict of Interest
Jun 1, 2010 · Issues of financial and intellectual conflict of interest in clinical practice guidelines have raised increasing concern.
[111]
Guideline Process | ACP Online - American College of Physicians
ACP officially initiated its guideline development program in 1981 but has participated in the development of evidence-based clinical recommendations since the ...
[112]
ACP Honors Outstanding Contributions to Medicine in Annual ...
The American College of Physicians (ACP) honors outstanding contributions to medicine at its annual convocation ceremony on Thursday, April 3.
[113]
How Internal Medicine Physicians Impact Medical Research
Internal medicine physicians help increase access to care, advocate for policies that address health disparities, and prioritize care that is equitable and ...
[114]
Improving the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act's Insurance ...
In this position paper, the American College of Physicians recommends action to enhance and expand eligibility for health insurance financial subsidies; ...
[115]
How the Affordable Care Act Will Strengthen the Nation's Primary ...
The Affordable Care Act begins to place greater value on primary care and reduce reliance on specialty care. A key provision provides a 10% primary care bonus ...
[116]
[PDF] Statement for the Record American College of Physicians Hearing ...
Mar 23, 2021 · ACP was very pleased to see many provisions in the ARP build upon the Affordable Care Act, and in so many ways. The ARP temporarily expands ...
[117]
Internists, AAFP endorse health provisions in the Inflation Reduction ...
Aug 1, 2022 · American College of Physicians, AAFP backs Affordable Care Act subsidies, drug price negotiations for Medicare.<|separator|>
[118]
Improving Medicare - ACP Advocacy - American College of Physicians
ACP advocates to make Medicare work for internists and their patients. Learn how we support the goal of aligning Medicare payments & value of patients' care.
[119]
ACP Calls on Congress to Prevent Medicare Payment Cuts
Physician payment cuts are coming, significant changes to E/M services are finalized, and key reporting revisions are hitting telehealth and audio-only services ...