AAFP - American Academy of Family Physicians

The American Academy of Family Physicians is one of the largest national medical organizations, representing more than 94,000 family physicians, family medicine residents, and medical students nationwide. Founded in 1947, its mission is to preserve and promote the science and art of family medicine and to ensure high-quality, cost-effective health care for patients of all ages.

ACS - American College of Surgeons

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) is a not-for-profit scientific and educational association of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to improve the care of the surgical patient by setting high standards for surgical education and practice. Examples of activities conducted by ACS include educational programs such as the Clinical Congress and standard-setting programs in cancer and trauma care.

JC - Joint Commission (formerly JCAHO)

Is a not-for-profit organization focused on improving the safety of patient care through the provision of accreditation and certification services as well as through advisory and educational services aimed at helping organizations implement practical and sustainable solutions.

NCQA - National Committee for Quality Assurance

A non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of health care by transforming health care quality through measurement, transparency and accountability.

NIH - National Institutes of Health

The National Institutes of Health, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the primary Federal agency for conducting and supporting medical research.  NIH scientists investigate ways to prevent disease as well as the causes, treatments, and even cures for common and rare diseases. Composed of 27 Institutes and Centers, the NIH provides leadership and financial support to researchers in every state and throughout the world.