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About Us Leadership & Policy Governance Documents

Governance Documents

Eye on the future

Advancing the AOA's mission and vision

The following documents and resources help guide the work of the AOA's governing bodies, affirm DOs' commitment to the practice of osteopathic medicine and provide professional guidance on strategic goals and ethical issues.


AOA Mission & Vision Statements

Mission: The AOA is the professional home for osteopathic physicians and students, providing education, board certification and is the champion of the advancement of the distinctive osteopathic profession.

Vision: The AOA aspires to be the “North Star” of the osteopathic profession by advancing the interests of osteopathic physicians and students and promoting excellence in patient care consistent with the distinctive osteopathic philosophy.

Value Statements:

  • Selfless Service: The AOA exists in service to the profession, its members, current and future osteopathic physicians.
  • Integrity: The AOA and its leaders display integrity in action, word and deed.
  • Transparency: The AOA respects those it serves through open communication and transparency.
  • Innovation: The AOA strives to build the box, not live within its confines.
  • Advocacy: The AOA passionately advocates for the osteopathic profession and the patients our members serve.
  • Collaboration: The AOA empowers the osteopathic community through collaboration and common interests with all whom we serve.
  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: The AOA commits to creating and sustaining a community that promotes and values diversity, equity and inclusion.

AOA Strategic Plan

In addition to identifying seven priority objectives and supporting strategies for implementation, the Strategic Plan establishes Mission, Vision and Value Statements that redefine the AOA’s purpose and outlook for our members and profession.

View the plan

AOA Constitution & Bylaws

The AOA Constitution and Bylaws outline the policies and processes that govern the association.

View PDF

AOA Administrative Guide

The Administrative Guide describes roles and responsibilities of the AOA’s officials, committees, departments, bureaus and employees.

View guide

AOA Code of Ethics

The Code of Ethics provides guidance for physicians in the area of medical ethics and professional responsibilities.

Learn more

View the proposed amendments to the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) Code of Ethics that be presented for action at the 2022 Annual Meeting, which will occur on July 15–17, 2022.

View the PDF

Tenets of Osteopathic Medicine

Approved by the AOA House of Delegates, the Tenets of Osteopathic Medicine express the underlying philosophy behind the osteopathic approach to care.

Learn more

Osteopathic Pledge of Commitment

Affirm your commitment to provide compassionate, quality care.

View pledge

Bureau, Council and Committee Appointments

View a full listing of appointments to the AOA’s bureaus, councils and committees.

Appointment Book


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