American College of Cardiology

American College of Cardiology

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is a prominent non-profit medical association established in the United States dedicated to enhancing cardiac care and heart health. Founded in 1949, the ACC plays a pivotal role in setting clinical guidelines, standards, and methodologies related to cardiology. It is renowned for its commitment to professional education, the dissemination of research, and the implementation of health policy standards that aim to reduce the incidence, severity, and impact of cardiovascular disease globally.

History

The American College of Cardiology was founded by a group of cardiologists in 1949, with the primary goal of providing a new platform for the exchange of medical knowledge and the latest research findings in the field of cardiology. Since its inception, the ACC has grown significantly and now includes over 52,000 members, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other healthcare professionals specializing in cardiology.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the American College of Cardiology is to transform cardiovascular care and improve heart health through education, research, quality care, and health policy. Its vision is a world where innovation and knowledge optimize cardiovascular care and outcomes.

Activities and Programs

The ACC is involved in a wide range of activities and programs designed to advance the field of cardiology. These include:

• Clinical Guidelines and Standards: The ACC develops and updates clinical practice guidelines and standards to ensure that cardiovascular care is based on the latest evidence and best practices.
• Education and Training: The ACC offers a variety of educational programs and resources for healthcare professionals, including conferences, workshops, online courses, and certification programs.
• Research: The ACC supports cardiovascular research through its journals, such as the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, and through research grants and awards.
• Advocacy: The ACC advocates for policies that improve cardiovascular health and healthcare, working with policymakers, other healthcare organizations, and patient groups.
• Quality Improvement: The ACC's quality improvement programs, such as the NCDR (National Cardiovascular Data Registry), help healthcare providers measure and improve the quality of care they provide.

Membership

Membership in the American College of Cardiology is open to healthcare professionals who are involved in the field of cardiology, including physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals. Members benefit from access to the latest cardiovascular research, educational resources, and opportunities for professional development and networking.

Publications

The ACC publishes several medical journals and resources that contribute significantly to the field of cardiology, including:

• Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC)
• JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions
• JACC: Heart Failure
• JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology
• JACC: Basic to Translational Science

Conferences and Meetings

The ACC hosts annual scientific sessions and meetings that bring together cardiovascular professionals from around the world to share the latest research findings, clinical practice updates, and advances in cardiovascular care.

See Also

• Cardiovascular disease
• Cardiology
• Heart health
• Clinical practice guidelines