Naturopathic Medical Students Join AMSA

By Julie Pefferman

Naturopathic medical students are reviving their involvement with the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) this month. AMSA is the oldest and largest independent association of physicians-in-training. With over 68,000 members, AMSA is rich with activism toward improving not only the lives of medical students, but AMSA also has a prominent role in improving health disparities in America.

A few years ago, for the first time ever, a group of Southwest College (SCNM) students petitioned to become recognized by AMSA. Once these students were able to educate other medical students, i.e. DO and MD students, the path was paved for all naturopathic students to join this organization. This opportunity has become invaluable to naturopathic students everywhere for networking, education, and recognition.

Today, there is a naturopathic interest group within AMSA that all medical students can join. A student from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine started this interest group which allows other students with various interests to become educated about naturopathic medicine. All medical students now have the opportunity to be exposed to the naturopathic principles such as “treating the cause” and “treating the whole person”. In addition, naturopathic students can gain knowledge from students of allopathic medicine.

There are many reasons why SCNM students are getting involved. One of the main reasons is that AMSA’s philosophies overlap with the principles of Naturopathic medicine. For example, AMSA has launched a “Pharmfree” campaign in order to continue teaching the qualities of honesty, humility, and accountability in dealing with patients and drug companies. AMSA will be promoting a “Pharmfree” day in 2007 which SCNM will be involved. On this day students support the initiative by raising awareness about the “Pharmfree” campaign and pledging the following:

"I am committed to the practice of medicine in the best interests of patients and to the pursuit of and education that is based on the best available evidence, rather than on advertising or promotion. I, therefore, pledge to accept no money, gifts, or hospitality from the pharmaceutical industry; to seek unbiased sources of information and not rely on information disseminated by drug companies; and to avoid conflicts of interest in my medical education and practice."

AMSA holds various conferences throughout the year which SCNM students will be attending and have the opportunity to speak. Naturopathic medical students and pre-medical students can also participate in AMSA by becoming general members and choose to become elected members. Beginning the week of November 19th, 2006, the Naturopathic Physician Awareness Committee (NPAC) will be hosting an AMSA general membership drive to help students who are interested get involved. For more information about AMSA and SCNM’s involvement contact Julie Pefferman at j.pefferman@scnm.edu or visit the AMSA website, www.amsa.org.