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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

Advocacy Toolkit for Physicians in Training

This new toolkit is designed to assist health professions learners in Washington, DC, to leverage their role to drive positive social change as they advocate with and for their patients and communities. Although this toolkit was designed for learners in the District of Columbia, the principles can be applied in other regions nationally.

access the toolkit

Community Engagement and Collaboration Resource Bundle

The AAMC has curated this collection of resources, articles, and toolkits focusing on the significance of long-lasting community partnerships in achieving a more equitable future. Registration in AAMC Communities is required.

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Community Engagement at the AAMC: Highlights from 2023

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

The AAMC Community Grants Program: 15 Years of Impact

The AAMC aims to live up to our mission and values through ongoing community engagement and collaboration. The Community Grants Program is a valuable opportunity for employee learning and engagement, and is an asset to the local community. Here are 15 testimonials that speak to the impact of the program over the last 15 years. 

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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