The 18th Annual Convention of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) will be held August 13-16, 2003 at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, Oregon.
Research is a major theme at this year?s AANP convention, "Exploring the Terrain of Natural Medicine." The "Naturopathic Medical Research Agenda" is a grant awarded to Bastyr University, funded by the NIH's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Convention participants will hear a preliminary draft agenda for the grant, and will be asked to give feedback. Input from the profession is of primary importance, so consider attendance your opportunity to bring your priorities to the table. We are honored this year to welcome Stephen E. Straus, MD, Director of NCCAM. Other original research presentations will be made as well. The scientific assembly is designed to provide healthcare professionals with provocative and compelling educational experiences in the art, science, philosophy and practice of naturopathic medicine. Clinically relevant, inspirational topics, presented by dynamic speakers is our aim.
The AANP Annual Convention includes not only the annual scientific assembly but the annual meetings of the Board of Directors, the House of Delegates, the American Association of Naturopathic Medical Colleges, the Institute for Natural Medicine, the Council for Naturopathic Medical Education, and the Advisory Committee of the North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners. And as a result of the bylaws revisions passed at last year's House of Delegates meeting, the AANP will hold its first Annual Membership meeting at this convention. The convention thus marks a tremendous surge in the momentum for the profession, in addition to the educational program. Again, your participation in the Membership meeting is your chance to participate in the essential, political life of our professional community. Come to listen, and to make your voice heard.
But most of all, for many of us, the convention represents our annual "family reunion," a vital, nourishing experience that renews and strengthens our interconnectedness, our common vision and extends the web outward to embrace our new members. The AANP's vision is to transform healthcare from disease management to health promotion by incorporating the principles of naturopathic medicine into the healthcare system as a whole. Our mission is to serve our members as they advance the profession of naturopathic medicine. Our members include naturopathic physicians, naturopathic medical students, corporate partners, affiliated organizations, and supporting members. Supporting membership consists of other healthcare professionals, patients, and other individuals who wish to join the AANP in the furtherance of its objectives.
A special invitation to those of you that may not have attended previous conventions ~ please feel warmly encouraged to join us. The educational presentations are being given by some of the most expert leaders in natural medicine. This family has a great deal of knowledge to exchange and lots of heart to share. Become part of it. If you attend only one continuing educational program a year, you will be glad that you came to this one.
But most of all, for many of us, the convention represents our annual "family reunion," a vital, nourishing experience that renews and strengthens our interconnectedness, our common vision and extends the web outward to embrace our new members. May you leave feeling reinvigorated by the experience and reconnected to your passion, and happy that you joined us.