J Korean Med Assoc.  2022 May;65(5):307-313. 10.5124/jkma.2022.65.5.307.

Measures to strengthen the political ability of the Korean Medical Association

• Oh SH
• Lee E

• KMID: 2530254
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2022.65.5.307

Abstract

Background
The Korean Medical Association (KMA) must strengthen its political ability in order to respond appropriately to the changing medical environment. Further, this strengthening is necessary to establish the status of the KMA as an expert group for protecting members’ rights.
Current Concepts
The KMA has been evaluated to have unsatisfactory performance because of a lack of internal and external political ability, negative social perception of medical associations, and insufficient regulations on the purpose and role of the organization.
Discussion and Conclusion
The following are suggested to overcome this situation: First, as an expert group, the KMA must strengthen its ability to develop policy agendas that can lead to health and medical policy issues and establish action strategies. Second, it is necessary to pursue an appropriate balance between public interest and the association’s own interests. Third, efforts to secure the autonomy of the KMA should be continued. Fourth, active support is needed to produce doctors-turned-members of the National Assembly. Fifth, it is necessary to prepare a support system to strengthen political power. Sixth, internal solidarity must be strengthened so that the KMA can be positioned as an indispensable institution among its members. Seventh, it is necessary to induce a change in the social perception of the KMA by strengthening public activities. Eighth, the association’s solidarity with the media, civic groups, and health and medical organizations should be strengthened.

Keyword

Korean Medical Association; Political activity; Republic of Korea; 대한의사협회; 정치활동; 대한민국