The Society
The Society, established in 1997, is an affiliate of the South African Medical Association (SAMA), and is the largest professional HIV interest group in the world, with over 12,500 members in 2007.
The Society is a Public Benefit Organization (PBO) and is run by an elected President and Executive Committee. Members of the Society are amongst the most respected and influential HIV clinicians and policy makers within Southern Africa and hold prestigious positions within academic, public and private organizations in the field of HIV in the region.
The Society represents a powerful and independent voice within Southern Africa, with key representation from the most experienced and respected professionals working in the fight against HIV. Through its quarterly publications – the Journal and the Transcript Newsletter – supplying information on: | | | | | • | training courses | | | • | symposia | | | • | conferences | | | • | monthly branch meetings | | | • | current ARV prices | | | • | clinical guidelines | | | | | The Society reaches thousands of healthcare workers on a regular basis. | | | | Guidelines developed by the Society are used by the medical aid industry and have been adapted by the Department of Health in relation to the South African government’s Comprehensive Plan for the Treatment and Prevention of HIV/AIDS. The Society has established on-line discussion groups covering: | | | | | • | Adults | | | • | Pediatrics | | | • | Policy and Ethics | | | | | which allow members and other interested parties to contribute to the promotion of high quality healthcare and the highest possible professional standards. | | | The Society provides technical, clinical and scientific advice to a range of organizations campaigning for improved care and support for people with HIV, including the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), the Aids Consortium and the AIDS Law Project (ALP).
The Society carries out a co-coordinating and networking role with other key SA and SADC players in the field of HIV, including corporate employee and home based community programmes to increase access to treatment and care.
The Society, as the largest Special Interest Group within the South African Medical Association (SAMA), works in conjunction with the Association’s education arm – the Foundation for Professional Development (FPD), to provide ongoing professional development and necessary accreditation for doctors working in the field of HIV. | | | | Annual membership fees are: | | | | | • | Doctors in private practice R290.00 | | | • | Doctors in public practice R145.00 | | | • | Associate Members R115.00 | | | |
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