Student National Medical Association

Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians. Established in 1964, the SNMA is committed to developing programs aimed at recruiting and retaining future physicians of color and improving medical education and healthcare policies for the benefit of all communities.

History

The SNMA was founded as a student division of the National Medical Association (NMA), a professional society for African American physicians. In the early 1960s, medical students at Howard University and Meharry Medical College, two historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with medical schools, initiated the formation of the SNMA. Their goal was to address the lack of support for minority medical students and the disparities in healthcare delivery to minority populations. The organization quickly grew to include members from medical schools across the United States.

Mission and Goals

The mission of the SNMA is to support underrepresented minority medical students, address the needs of underserved communities, and increase the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians. Its goals include:

• Supporting and advising minority students in their education and career planning.
• Promoting the recruitment and retention of minority students, faculty, and administrators in medical schools.
• Educating students about the health needs of underserved communities and the disparities in healthcare.
• Encouraging members to serve these communities and advocate for quality healthcare for all.

Programs and Activities

The SNMA organizes a variety of programs and activities to achieve its mission, including:

• Annual Medical Education Conference (AMEC): A flagship event that provides educational workshops, networking opportunities, and career guidance for minority medical students.
• Pipeline Programs: Initiatives aimed at increasing the number of minority students pursuing careers in medicine and science, such as the Health Professions Recruitment and Exposure Program (HPREP) and the Youth Science Enrichment Program (YSEP).
• Community Service: Projects focused on health promotion and disease prevention in underserved communities, including health fairs, screenings, and educational seminars.
• Research Forum: An opportunity for students to present their research on health disparities and other issues affecting underserved communities.

Membership

Membership in the SNMA is open to medical students, pre-medical students, and other health professional students who support the organization's mission and goals. The SNMA also welcomes practicing physicians, residents, and other healthcare professionals as members who can provide mentorship and support to students.

Impact

The SNMA has played a significant role in increasing the diversity of the medical profession and addressing health disparities. Through its programs and activities, the SNMA has helped thousands of minority students pursue careers in medicine and has raised awareness about the health needs of underserved communities.

See Also

• National Medical Association
• Health disparities
• Medical education in the United States