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Step 1
Join a general society like the American Medical Association or AMA early in your career. Being a member and attending conferences of a larger association can help you narrow your interest in other smaller associations. Reading regular journal publications from the AMA before you even leave medical school can help you decide what area of medicine to specialize in.
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Step 2
Look for more specific associations tailored to your field of medicine, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics or other specialized associations.
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Step 3
Search for associations that incorporate your wider interests. For instance, if you are interested in international healthcare and philanthropy, find an association that caters to that interest and will enable you to learn more about how you can get involved in a wider medical context.
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Step 4
Look for associations that may be related to your field. For example, if you are an endocrinologist and treat many patients with diabetes or hypothyroid who are struggling with their weight, you may want to join an association for dietitians to learn more ways to assist your patients outside of the office.
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Step 5
Make sure that the associations you join offer current information on legal and social issues in your field.
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Step 6
Visit the website of the association of your choice for information on how to join. Most associations now offer the option of joining, paying membership fees and renewing your membership online.
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Step 7
Get involved with the associations you join. Attend conferences and submit presentations to become a contributing member of your field.
