Why form a constituent organization?
Constituent organizations are AAPA's grassroots partners, assisting in the advancement of the PA profession and the goals of AAPA.
Chapters: Constituent chapters address concerns and issues on the local, state and federal service level. Chapters are a part of the Academy's formal structure and must follow the philosophy of the AAPA.
Specialty organizations: Specialty organizations are recognized (not chartered) by AAPA and are integral to the Academy's knowledge-base regarding specialty issues. These organizations strengthen the PA profession through their liaisons with their medical and professional counterparts. These relationships allow specialty organizations to partner with AAPA to address challenges such as reimbursement, clinical practice, and regulation.
Caucuses: Caucuses are national or international in scope and complement the Academy's vision, mission, and core values. Although they are recognized (not chartered), caucuses contribute to cultural awareness and diversity to the Academy and provide insight on sensitive issues related to health care delivery and access.
Process for becoming a constituent organization
The general process for becoming a constituent organization is as follows:
- Check the current lists of chapters, specialty organizations, caucuses and SIGs on the Constituent Organizations webpage to ensure an organization or group does not already exist.
- Complete a formal application (see below) which will be submitted to our Constituent Organization Development division.
- The Constituent Relations Committee (CRC), a standing committee of the Academy, will review the application and verify the information submitted.
- Upon recommendation of the CRC, the House of Delegates votes to officially charter or recognize the group.
The specifics of the process to become a constituent organization vary depending on the category (i.e., chapter, specialty organization or caucus). Before submitting the application, your group may want to ensure that:
- Bylaws have been developed and reviewed
- The group is incorporated and has a tax-exempt status (required for chapters only)
- There are a minimum of five (5) members
- Officers (president, president elect, vice president, secretary and treasurer) are fellow members of AAPA and remain in good standing as fellow members for the duration of their term (this is required for chapters and caucuses; specialty organizations are encouraged to follow this policy)
Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
Special Interest Groups are defined as a group of AAPA members who share a common concern, interest, or goal and desire to meet informally. The purpose of a SIG must be consistent with the vision, mission, and core values of AAPA.
Unlike chapters, specialty organizations and caucuses, SIGs are recognized by the Constituent Relations Committee (CRC). The SIG category allows groups to establish officers, develop governing documents, a membership base, and a structure. This category serves as a good first step for an organization before becoming a constituent organization (chapter, specialty organization or caucus).
Applications
- State or Federal Service Chapter (coming soon)
- Specialty Organization
- Caucus
- Special Interest Group
For more information, please contact the Constituent Organization Development staff at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone at 703-836-2272 extensions 3317 or 3318.
