State Affiliate Handbook

What is an Affiliate?

Since 1987, the American Geriatrics Society has worked to establish a presence at the grass roots level. The growing number of AGS state affiliates has increased the visibility of geriatric medicine throughout the country. The majority of AGS affiliates began with only a few individuals who were concerned about providing quality health care to the elderly. These individuals generally had at least one goal in mind, such as establishing an educational and professional network, improving the quality of geriatrics education in their area, or making an impact on public policy issues.

The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) launched the state affiliate program in 1991 through the efforts of a number of committed members. The initial purpose in establishing state affiliates was to: 1) to identify and recruit local leaders who would promote clinical geriatrics and foster quality geriatric care; 2) to establish, promote, and strengthen grassroots AGS presence across the country; and, 3) to identify future national leaders.

To date, there are over 25 established state affiliates.