California Medical Association

California Medical Association. Founded in 1856, it is one of the oldest and largest state medical societies in the United States. The organization represents physicians from all specialties and practice settings across the state, advocating for the medical profession and public health. Its mission centers on promoting the science and art of medicine, improving healthcare for all Californians, and protecting the patient-physician relationship.

History

The association was established in 1856 in San Francisco by a group of pioneering physicians, including notable early members like William R. P. Emerson. Its formation occurred during the rapid growth of the California Gold Rush era, aiming to establish professional standards and combat quackery. A significant early achievement was its instrumental role in the 1876 creation of the California State Board of Health, one of the first such bodies in the nation. Throughout the 20th century, it was involved in major public health initiatives, supporting the development of UCSF medical school and advocating for Medicare and Medicaid. In 1995, it merged with the California Physicians' Service, the precursor to Blue Shield of California, though the entities later separated.

Organization and governance

The association is governed by a Board of Trustees elected by its membership, which includes physicians from all regions of California. The House of Delegates, comprising representatives from county medical societies and specialty delegations, serves as its primary policy-making body, convening annually. Day-to-day operations are managed by a professional staff headquartered in Sacramento, with additional offices in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.. Key leadership positions include the President, a position held in 2024 by Donaldo Hernandez, and the CEO. Membership is organized through a federated model with over 40 constituent county medical societies across the state.

Advocacy and political activity

The association maintains one of the most influential advocacy operations in Sacramento, engaging on legislation affecting medical practice, public health, and healthcare reform. It played a key role in shaping the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in California and has been a persistent advocate for strengthening Medi-Cal. Its political action committee, CALPAC, is a major contributor to state legislative and gubernatorial races. Recent advocacy priorities have included addressing physician burnout, combating the opioid epidemic, promoting telehealth parity, and defending medical liability reforms under the Medical Injury Compensation Reform Act.

Publications and resources

Its flagship publication is California Medicine, a peer-reviewed journal focusing on clinical and health policy issues, originally known as California State Journal of Medicine. It also publishes the CMA Alert, a weekly digital newsletter covering legislative updates and practice management news. For legal and business guidance, it provides members with access to the CMA Health Law Library and practice management advisors. The association frequently releases policy papers and toolkits on topics such as value-based care, health information technology, and public health preparedness.

Related organizations and affiliates

The association is a founding and constituent member of the American Medical Association and partners closely with the California Hospital Association. It founded the CMA Foundation, a charitable arm focused on community health and physician wellness initiatives. Other affiliated entities include the California Medical Association Services, which provides business products, and the Doctors for America's Foundation. It maintains collaborative relationships with numerous specialty societies, including the California Academy of Family Physicians and the California Society of Anesthesiologists, and works with public health agencies like the California Department of Public Health.

Category:Medical and health organizations based in California Category:Professional associations based in the United States