American Association of Clinical Endocrinology

American Association of Clinical Endocrinology. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinology is a global professional community of physicians specializing in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism. Founded in 1991, the organization is dedicated to enhancing the practice of clinical endocrinology to improve patient care and advance the field through education, research, and the development of evidence-based guidelines. Its membership includes clinicians and researchers from across the United States and numerous other countries, working on conditions ranging from thyroid disease to osteoporosis.

History

The organization was established in 1991 by a group of leading endocrinologists who sought to create a distinct professional home focused specifically on the clinical practice of endocrinology. Its formation was influenced by the evolving complexities in managing diseases like diabetes mellitus and endocrine disorders. Key founding figures included prominent physicians from institutions such as the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic. Over the decades, it has grown significantly, absorbing the American College of Endocrinology in a strategic consolidation to strengthen its educational and certification missions. This growth paralleled major advances in the field, including the development of new insulin analogs and treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome.

Mission and activities

The primary mission is to elevate the quality of care for patients with endocrine conditions through leadership in education, advocacy, and the formulation of clinical practice guidelines. Core activities include providing continuing medical education credits for physicians through live events and digital platforms like the AACE eLearning Center. The association actively engages in health policy advocacy, working with entities like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Food and Drug Administration on issues affecting endocrine practice. It also administers the certification program for Endocrine Certification in Neck Ultrasound and fosters research initiatives through collaborations with the National Institutes of Health.

Publications and guidelines

The association is a leading publisher of influential clinical practice guidelines and scientific statements that are utilized globally. Its flagship publication is the peer-reviewed journal *Endocrine Practice*, which features original research on topics like thyroid cancer and obesity management. The organization develops comprehensive guidelines, such as the *AACE/ACE Comprehensive Diabetes Management Algorithm* and protocols for diagnosing Cushing's syndrome. These documents are often created in collaboration with other societies, including the American Diabetes Association and the European Society of Endocrinology. Additional resources include the *AACE Clinical Case Reports* and periodic updates published in journals like *The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism*.

Annual meeting

The premier event is the AACE Annual Meeting, a major scientific conference that attracts thousands of endocrinologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from around the world. The meeting features presentations of cutting-edge research, educational sessions on topics such as lipid disorders and adrenal insufficiency, and workshops on emerging technologies like continuous glucose monitoring. It has been held in various major cities, including Orlando, Los Angeles, and Nashville. The conference also includes the prestigious AACE Awards ceremony, honoring leaders in the field, and provides a venue for the exhibition of new pharmaceuticals and medical devices by companies like Eli Lilly and Company.

Leadership and governance

Governance is overseen by a Board of Directors composed of elected endocrinologists from diverse practice settings, including academic medical centers and private clinics. The board is led by an annually elected President, with recent presidents having affiliations with institutions like the University of California, San Francisco and the Joslin Diabetes Center. Key committees, such as the Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee and the Advocacy Committee, drive specific initiatives. The organization's executive offices are located in Jacksonville, Florida, and day-to-day operations are managed by a professional executive director and staff working in partnership with the volunteer leadership.

Affiliated organizations

The association maintains formal affiliations with several key organizations to advance its mission globally. Its closest partner is the American College of Endocrinology, which focuses on educational and certification programs. It is also a founding member of the International Consortium of Endocrinology, which promotes standards of care worldwide. The organization collaborates extensively with the Endocrine Society on advocacy and guideline development and works with international bodies like the International Diabetes Federation. Additional affiliations include partnerships with the American Thyroid Association for specific disease initiatives and with the American Association of Diabetes Educators to support multidisciplinary care teams. Category:Medical and health organizations based in Florida Category:Endocrinology organizations Category:Organizations established in 1991