The National Medical Association (NMA) is the oldest and largest national organization representing African American physicians and their patients in the United States. It was founded in 1895 in Atlanta, Georgia, in response to the racial segregation and discrimination African American doctors faced within the American Medical Association (AMA) at the time.

The NMA was established to promote the collective efforts of African American physicians in addressing healthcare disparities, promoting medical education and training opportunities for minority students, and advocating for the healthcare needs of underserved communities.

Throughout its history, the NMA has been at the forefront of advancing health equity and addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes for African Americans and other minority populations. The organization has played a significant role in advocating for policies and programs that aim to improve the health and well-being of marginalized communities.

The NMA continues to be a vital voice in the medical community, advocating for diversity and inclusion in healthcare, supporting the professional development of minority physicians, and working to eliminate health disparities based on race and ethnicity. The organization also provides a platform for African American physicians to network, collaborate, and share best practices in the delivery of healthcare services.