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Community Collaborations

Medical schools and teaching hospitals are working for the health of all by collaborating with communities across clinical, research, and educational missions.

This type of partnership means sharing expertise, resources, and responsibility with communities for achieving shared goals. Through interactions built on trust, mutual respect, cultural humility, and mutual benefit, medical schools and teaching hospitals work with communities on activities that include community-based service learning, community-engaged research, and community-driven health services delivery.

The AAMC is committed to supporting its member institutions in building partnerships and cultivating trust as anchor institutions in their communities.

Smiling young students sitting with instructor
Doctor talks with community member during outdoor health fair
Smiling young students sitting with instructor

What's New in Community Collaborations

Applications due April 3 for AAMC NEXT Grant

The AAMC Nurturing Experiences for Tomorrow’s Community Leaders (NEXT) Grant will award five grants of up to $40,000 each for institutions to develop or enhance health and health care initiatives for learners to confront racism and advance health equity in partnership with local communities.

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The AAMC Center for Health Justice Launches

The AAMC recently launched the Center for Health Justice. Partnering with public health and community-based organizations, government and health care entities, the private sector, community leaders, and community members, the center will build a case for health justice through research, analysis, and expertise — which will help us drive our efforts to build a better future.

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Community Engagement at the AAMC: Highlights from 2022

The AAMC is committed to having a greater social impact in Washington, DC, through its philanthropic efforts, employee volunteerism, and innovative programming. Through partnerships with community organizations, we advance educational opportunities, promote health equity, and respond to our neighbors’ needs.

Access the Report

Podcast: Beyond the White Coat: Community Health Connect

Community Health Connect is a limited series about the strength and resiliency of community-based nonprofit organizations in the Washington, DC, area. These organizations are grappling with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on community health. 

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Professional Development Resources

The Foreman Award honors institutions and their community partners that engage in bidirectional collaboration and shared leadership in service of advancing the health and vitality of the community, its residents, and the academic institution. Learn more about past recipients. 

Philip Alberti

“Medical schools and teaching hospitals must become the best partners they can be in the multi-sector collaborations necessary to achieve health justice.”

Philip Alberti, Senior Director, Health Equity Research & Policy