Legal Definitions - AMA

The acronym AMA has two primary meanings in a legal and medical context:

• 1. American Medical Association

  The American Medical Association is a professional organization for physicians in the United States. It works to promote the art and science of medicine, improve public health, and advocate for the interests of the medical profession and patients.

  • Example 1: The American Medical Association released a position statement advocating for stronger federal regulations on the marketing of flavored tobacco products to minors, citing public health concerns.

    Explanation: This example illustrates the AMA's role in public health advocacy and influencing policy on medical and health-related issues.

  • Example 2: A medical school curriculum committee reviewed the latest ethical guidelines published by the American Medical Association to ensure their training program aligned with current professional standards for patient care and physician conduct.

    Explanation: This demonstrates the AMA's influence in setting ethical standards and professional expectations within the medical community.

  • Example 3: A groundbreaking study on a new cancer treatment was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), one of the organization's highly respected peer-reviewed publications.

    Explanation: This highlights the AMA's contribution to medical research and the dissemination of scientific knowledge through its publications.

• 2. Against Medical Advice

  To act against medical advice means that a patient chooses to refuse a recommended medical treatment, diagnostic procedure, or discharge plan, despite their healthcare provider advising against this decision due to potential risks to their health or recovery. Patients often sign a form acknowledging they are leaving or refusing care AMA.

  • Example 1: A patient admitted to the hospital for a severe allergic reaction insisted on leaving after only a few hours, even though the emergency room doctor strongly recommended staying overnight for observation. The patient signed an Against Medical Advice form before departing.

    Explanation: This illustrates a patient choosing to disregard a doctor's recommendation for continued care and observation, formally documenting their decision to leave AMA.

  • Example 2: After being diagnosed with a serious infection, a patient refused the prescribed course of antibiotics, stating they preferred to use herbal remedies instead, despite their physician explaining the potential for the infection to worsen without conventional treatment. This refusal was noted as Against Medical Advice in their medical record.

    Explanation: This shows a patient declining a specific, recommended medical treatment, despite the doctor's professional judgment regarding its necessity.

  • Example 3: A surgeon advised a patient with a ruptured appendix that immediate surgery was critical to prevent life-threatening complications. However, the patient, citing personal beliefs, refused the operation, making a decision Against Medical Advice.

    Explanation: This example demonstrates a patient refusing a crucial, time-sensitive medical procedure that healthcare professionals deem essential for their survival, thereby acting AMA.