Since its inception in 1806, the New York County Medical Society has been representing physicians as they treat patients, advance science, maintain the standards of the profession, and protect the public health.

The mission of the New York County Medical Society is to proactively identify and respond to the evolving needs of its members; to strive for the achievement of the highest standards of medical practice and quality of care by providing extended medical education and supporting advances in medical science; to champion the integrity of the patient–physician relationship; to improve public health through education initiatives and targeted community service efforts; and to serve as a strong advocate for both members and patients by working aggressively for enactment of supportive and enabling medical legislation.

The Society has an active roster of committees that includes groups which discuss government regulations, continuing medical education, medical economics, peer review, and public health, among others.

Since its inception, the Society has been involved in every aspect of medical care in Manhattan, including:

• Participation in the founding of Manhattan hospitals;
• Fighting epidemics from smallpox to tuberculosis to AIDS;
• Working to protect the public health, including milk inspection at area farms (a practice that the Society did into the early 70s!);
• Leading efforts to fight unfair practices by third–party payers such as suits against major health insurers;
• Advocating for patients and the profession with New York State legislators and regulators — the Society’s work to educate government leaders on healthcare is a key part of its mission;
• Advancing science and medical education causes;
• Welcoming new generations of physicians to practice in New York City.