Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS)

The Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS) is a non-partisan professional association of physicians across various specialties in the United States. Founded in 1943, its core mission is to uphold the ethical standards of the Oath of Hippocrates, preserve the sanctity of the patient-physician relationship, and advocate for the practice of private medicine. The organization operates under the motto “omnia pro aegroto,” meaning “all for the patient,” and is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona.

AAPS offers a range of services to its members, including legal defense for physicians, guidance on establishing cash-based medical practices, and information for opting out of Medicare. It actively challenges government regulations, such as the HIPAA “Privacy Rule,” and provides resources to help physicians reduce third-party interference in their practices. The association publishes a monthly newsletter, AAPS News, and the Journal of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (JP&S), which serves as a platform for discussing medical and political issues.

Known for its politically conservative viewpoint, AAPS advocates for medical freedom and private healthcare. Dr. Jane M. Orient serves as the executive director. Recent activities include legal challenges against government mandates and medical boards, as well as supporting religious exemptions to vaccination. The organization is funded entirely by membership dues and contributions, positioning itself as an advocate solely for its physician members. Some sources have characterized AAPS as promoting medical misinformation and conspiracy theories.