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Health Solutions is actively working on the implementation and development of medical self-governance in Ukraine, viewing this as one of the key directions of its activities. We plan to present a series of analytical publications dedicated to the history, best international practices, and structure of medical associations.

In the early 19th century, during a period of scientific research and intellectual development, Europe witnessed the emergence of the first medical associations. These associations, initially formed as scientific medical societies, laid the foundation for the advancement of medicine and science. They were designed not only to promote scientific progress but also to create a community of like-minded individuals capable of addressing complex health challenges. Over time, the scope of these societies gradually expanded to include medical regulation and the needs of physicians. This marked the starting point for the transformation of medical associations into more structured and corporate forms—medical associations.

Simultaneously, medical chambers and councils emerged as public organizations for the legal protection of individuals engaged in official medical practice. By the early 20th century, medical associations in various European countries began to unite into national medical associations. These associations played a significant role, differing from state regulatory bodies. They were created to protect the interests of the medical community and improve their working conditions, contributing to the development of medical science and practice.

World Medical Association (WMA)

A major step forward was the establishment of the WMA in 1947, initiated by 42 medical associations, including 20 from the European region. By uniting nearly 70 national medical associations, the WMA became an authoritative international body that develops guidelines, recommendations, and methodological materials on a wide range of medical issues, such as medical ethics, patient rights, care for the wounded and sick during armed conflicts, treatment of prisoners and the use of torture, the use of pharmaceuticals, family planning, environmental pollution, and more.

European Forum of Medical Associations (EFMA)

The EFMA is an important European forum officially created in 1991, following its first meeting in 1984. It plays a crucial role in discussing and addressing healthcare issues at the European level, regularly publishing materials on relevant topics and facilitating the implementation of solutions adopted at the forum.

In the modern world, medical associations exist in many countries, including the USA and both Western and Eastern Europe. They not only promote the professional development of physicians but also play a key role in shaping the legal relationships between the medical community and society, ensuring physicians' accountability to patients and the state. The development of self-governance among doctors is particularly relevant for Ukraine, where the pursuit of improvements in the medical field continues to be a central focus.