Description
The Dallas County Medical Society, established in 1876, is a professional organization that has grown from 30 to approximately 6000 physicians since its inception. Members are Dallas physicians, surgeons, medical students, and residents dedicated to serving Dallas citizens in matters of medical care. Throughout the changes that have taken place in medicine, DCMS has remained a leader at the local, state, and national levels.
As a member of the Federation of Medicine, along with the Texas Medical Association and the American Medical Association, DCMS focuses on local medical issues. DCMS has provided local health services ranging from administering polio vaccines to distributing AIDS educational booklets to Dallas public school students. DCMS has been active in supporting immunizations, a smoke-free Dallas, and organizing Project Access Dallas, a physician-led, community effort to provide health care to the uninsured. During the Texas legislative sessions, DCMS physicians are involved in influencing legislation as it pertains to the quality of care delivered to patients. Many physicians traveled to Austin to meet with legislators and discuss issues pertinent to medicine as they advocate for quality patient care.
Nationally, DCMS physicians are known for their research on issues such as Gulf War syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. Each year, The Max Cole Leadership Award recognizes a physician's contribution to medicine and the Heath Award honors a layperson who has positively affected the medical community.
DCMS publishes a monthly magazine for members. The Dallas Medical Journal informs physicians and their office staffs of clinical advancements, legislation affecting the business or practice of medicine, and other issues pertinent to the medical office. The DCMS Directory is published annually and lists the membership by name, specialty, and location, and lists area hospitals and other health-related agencies. The Collin/Fannin County membership roster also is included in the publication. Advertising information is available for both publications. Other community services include a free countywide Physician Finder service, a speakers bureau, and a mediations committee. Information about these services is available by calling 214-948-3622.