Who We Are

The Iowa Medical Society (IMS) is the professional association for Iowa MDs and DOs. The core purpose of the IMS is to assure the highest quality of health care in Iowa through our role as physician and patient advocate. The IMS was established in 1850 in Burlington and has a long history of serving Iowa physicians and their patients. The IMS exists to advance medical science and promote fair medical laws and regulations in Iowa. IMS also works to protect the health of Iowans through a variety of projects and activities at the state and national levels. Its members include over 4,600 physicians in Iowa.

The vision statement, core purpose and core values form the foundation for IMS activities and programs. These are the principles of the IMS, no matter what happens in the health care delivery system.

IMS POLICY

The IMS values informed decision-making. Several timely and relevant ways have been established for the purpose of gathering input from more IMS member physicians as policy decisions are made. These are:

• Increased use of ad hoc committees which meet once or twice to consider specific issues
• A survey which gathers information on interests and areas of expertise of all IMS members.
• Increased use of interactive technology such as e-mail and hotlines.
• Facilitated forums for debate on key issues.
• An inter-specialty council to enhance dialogue on policy decisions.
• Direct contact with physician groups at their locations.
• A forum for large group executives.
• Choosing physicians to participate in issues based on their abilities and expertise rather than their level of activity in IMS.

IMS VISION

To become the source of leadership and the preeminent voice of quality health care for Iowans. IMS will have unquestioned political strength. IMS will be the unquestioned voice for all physicians and patients. Every Iowa physician will feel an individual connection to the IMS. IMS will be a source of medical advocacy for public health, patients and physicians. IMS will be an organization of highly trained and skilled medical professionals.

IMS CORE PURPOSE

To assure the highest quality health care in Iowa through our role as physician and patient advocate. IMS CORE VALUES The care of patients is the foundation of our profession. The physician-patient partnership is unique and essential for high-quality care. Freedom to practice the art and science of medicine professionally is essential.