I joined the American Geriatrics Society for several reasons.  Cheryl Phillips

First, AGS was, and is, the organization that provides me with the most up-to-date, pertinent and relevant information about geriatrics research, education, practice and models of care. AGS is my center for knowledge and understanding of geriatrics.

Secondly, AGS was and is the center of my peer networking. It's an organization of likeminded people who understand what I do.

Thirdly, AGS is an important agent for crucial public policy change. Participating in public policy advocacy to improve older adults' access to quality healthcare is important to me.

For similar reasons, I'm also a member of the American Medical Directors Association (AMDA) and am past president of AMDA. AMDA focuses on the world of the physician in the nursing home, while AGS has a broader, interdisciplinary focus that expands to include the health of all seniors. The two overlap. I'd never give up my membership in either organization. They complement one another.

Cheryl Phillips, MD, AGS President, Chief Medical Officer at On Lok, San Francisco, California.