The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) was founded in 1898 to lend support and assistance to the nation's osteopathic medical schools, and to serve as a unifying voice for osteopathic medical education.
Having grown from a handful of college administrators a century ago, the organization today represents the administration, faculty, and students of all of the osteopathic medical colleges in the United States. The association, guided by its Board of Deans and various other member councils and committees, is actively involved in all areas of osteopathic medical education.
AACOM's Mission and Strategic Plan
The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine leads and advocates for the osteopathic medical education community to improve the health of the public.
AACOM represents and advances the continuum of medical education by:
- supporting our member institutions as they educate the future physician workforce;
- increasing awareness of osteopathic medical education and osteopathic medicine;
- promoting excellence in medical education, policy, research, and service; and
- fostering innovation and quality throughout medical education.
AACOM's Strategic Plan 2019-2021
National-Level Services Provided by AACOM
- A Unified Voice
Serves as the unifying voice for the nation’s colleges of osteopathic medicine, representing their collective interests through proactive advocacy at the federal government level and collaboration with other allied organizations.
- Innovation, Collaboration and Community
Works to foster collaboration and innovation among its member colleges in numerous areas including administration, education, research and service.
- Centralized Services
Provides centralized services including data collection and analysis and operation of the online application service for students applying to U.S. osteopathic medical schools.
- Enhanced Awareness
Develops national initiatives to promote and raise awareness of osteopathic medical education and osteopathic medicine.