What We Do

Historically, NAP is best known for its annual Interdisciplinary Health Policy Forums, and its Membership Symposia. Each year, a topic of key public policy importance is chosen for emphasis, and Public Policy Statements are crafted reflecting the NAP’s view of the issue which is broadly circulated to Congress, government agencies, advocacy groups and others.

Recent Forums have focused on issues and options relating to access to care, and shortages in the healthcare workforce. The 2009 Forum will focus on the needs and options to improve this country’s dismal record on coordination of care.

Interdisciplinary care is also a special emphasis of the NAP. Interdisciplinary dialogue is fostered throughout all events of the NAP, and in Expert Panel discussion groups on a variety of topics. Additionally, the NAP gives out annual awards for Interdisciplinary Care programs of merit. Click here for information on NAP awards.

Interdisciplinary Healthcare Policy Forums
To date, 12 Interdisciplinary Health Policy Forums have been developed and implemented by the National Academies of Practice. Click here for more on NAP’s Policy Forums.

Policy and Position Publications and Papers
The National Academies of Practice has developed position papers which have been circulated to Members of Congress on ten topics. Click here to see these Policy Papers.

Membership Symposiums
NAP has held four Membership Symposiums concentrating primarily on giving members an opportunity to be involved in the policy-making activities of the organization.

Combined Conferences
Fostering the NAP agenda for interdisciplinary care often requires collaboration. NAP was pleased to work with the Interdisciplinary Health Care Team conference to sponsor two Forums and looks forward to future collaboration.