The National Medical Association (NMA) stands as the collective voice of African American physicians, tirelessly championing parity and justice in medicine while striving to eliminate disparities in health.
Join a community of over 50,000 dedicated African American physicians and professionals committed to making a positive impact on healthcare.
Explore our diverse range of programs and initiatives aimed at advancing scientific and clinical knowledge, promoting healthy lifestyles, and addressing health disparities.
The National Medical Association (NMA) is the largest and oldest national organization representing African American physicians and their patients in the United States. The NMA is a 501(c) (3) national professional and scientific organization representing the interests of more than 50,000 African American physicians and the patients they serve. NMA is committed to improving the quality of health among minorities and disadvantaged people through its membership, professional development, community health education, advocacy, research and partnerships with federal and private agencies. Throughout its history the National Medical Association has focused primarily on health issues related to African Americans and medically underserved populations; however, its principles, goals, initiatives and philosophy encompass all ethnic groups.
Providing education and advocacy in support of safe, equitable and effective patient care. The program provides activities designed to promote health professional performance, competency and optimal patient outcome and services to the public and the profession.
The Journal of the National Medical Association is focused on specialized clinical research activities related to the health problems of African Americans and other minority groups. Special emphasis is placed on the application of medical science to improve the healthcare of underserved populations both in the United States and abroad.
We must lead the continued fight against inequities in public health policies, public-funded private delivery methods and financing that impact the access and quality of care, and specialized medical education that ensures a diverse healthcare workforce.
“Healthcare is a fundamental human right. The NMA is committed to addressing the health disparities that disproportionately affect Black Americans and ensuring access to quality health care for all.”
“At a time when communities of color are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, a worsening maternal mortality crisis exists, and there continues to be a host of other disparities, the need for diversity in medicine and for perspectives such as ours is critical.”
Access valuable health resources designed to empower and educate. From information on cancer, cardiovascular disease, and HIV/AIDS to resources on women’s health, asthma, and immunization, we are dedicated to promoting healthy living and preventing illness.
This Black History Month, we honor the legacy, resilience, brilliance, and transformative impact of Black leaders who have shaped our nation and the field of medicine.
The National Medical Association proudly continues our #WEARETHELEGENDS campaign by highlighting the extraordinary voices within our membership.
Today, we are honored to feature Melissa Walker, MD, who serves as Trustee for Region 5 of the NMA. Dr. Walker’s leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to advancing health equity reflect the strength and legacy of Black physicians across generations. In her role as Trustee, she helps shape the direction of our organization while continuing to serve her community with excellence and purpose.
Black history is not just something we commemorate; it is something we actively build through leadership, service, and impact.
Watch Dr. Walker’s video and celebrate the powerful legacy she represents.
Because at the NMA, We Are The Legends.
#BlackHistoryMonth #WEARETHELEGENDS #NMAPhysicians #HealthEquity #BlackExcellence
Today we proudly recognize National Thank a Resident Day, celebrated annually on February 27, honoring the dedication, resilience, and extraordinary commitment of resident physicians and fellows across the country.
Established in 2018 by the Gold Humanism Honor Society, this day shines a light on the long hours, tireless service, and compassionate care that residents provide every single day. They are the backbone of our hospitals, the future of our profession, and a powerful force in advancing health equity in the communities we serve.
The National Medical Association is proud to stand with our residents and fellows who continue to lead with excellence, empathy, and purpose, even in the most demanding environments.
Today, we say thank you for your sacrifice, your service, and your unwavering commitment to patient care.
Residents and fellows, we celebrate you.
#ThankAResidentDay #WeAreTheLegends #NMAPhysicians #MedicalResidents #HealthEquity
Join us this Black History Month and help us show the world what legacy in action truly looks like.
In commemoration of Black History Month, the National Medical Association (NMA) invites our members to be part of our #WEARETHELEGENDS campaign by submitting a short, personal video highlighting how your work helps transform the social, educational, and health outcomes of Black communities across generations.
This year’s national theme, A Century of Black History Commemorations, reminds us that progress is built by physicians and advocates who continue to advance equity, opportunity, and excellence while honoring the legacy that made our work possible.
We are seeking 1–2 minute videos from NMA members sharing:
Why #WEARETHELEGENDS
What being a Black physician, leader, or advocate means to you
How your work is shaping healthier and more equitable communities
Your story will help inspire the next generation and amplify the powerful impact of NMA members nationwide.
Submit your video to: socialmedia@nmanet.org
Be sure to include #WEARETHELEGENDS in your message and on social media when sharing.
Join us this Black History Month and help us show the world what legacy in action truly looks like.
#NMA #BlackHistory #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackLeadership #AdvocacyinAction
The National Medical Association is proud to share that NMA President-Elect, Brandi K. Freeman, MD, MS, will be speaking at “Honoring Our Legacy: Shaping Our Future”, a powerful National Interprofessional Conversation on Black Health Professionals in America.
Presented in collaboration with the National Dental Association, National Pharmaceutical Association, and National Black Nurses Association, this important discussion will bring together leaders across disciplines to reflect on our shared history and shape the future of Black health.
🗓 Thursday, February 26, 2026
⏰ 7:30 – 9:00 PM EST
📍 Live via LinkedIn
This conversation is designed for health professionals, students, educators, historians, advocates, policy leaders, and allies committed to advancing health equity.
Join Dr. Freeman and fellow national leaders as we honor the legacy of Black health professionals and continue the work toward a stronger, more equitable future.
🔗 Register today by scanning the QR code or visiting the event page here: https://nationalpharmaceuticalassociation.org/event-6572963. Spots are limited, don’t miss this impactful evening.
#NationalMedicalAssociation #HonoringOurLegacy #ShapingOurFuture #BlackHealthProfessionals #HealthEquity #WeAreNMA
Join a community of over 50,000 dedicated African American physicians and professionals committed to making a positive impact on healthcare. Discover the benefits of NMA membership, access professional development opportunities, and become a part of a network dedicated to advancing health equity.
National Medical Association
1010 Wayne Avenue, Suite 800
Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Phone: 202-347-1895
Fax: 301-495-0359