The Society was founded in 1967 to respond to the needs of family medicine educators. From a small beginning of 105 founding members, we have grown to a membership of more nearly 5,000 teachers of family medicine.  These teachers include medical school professors, preceptors, residency program faculty, residency program directors and all involved in family medicine education.

The administrative offices are housed with the American Academy of Family Physicians in Leawood, Kansas, enhancing the close relationship between the two organizations. The Society has a 16-person staff in Leawood, Kansas, and two part-time staff members in Washington, DC.

Core Purpose

Advancing Family Medicine to Improve Health Through a Community of Teachers and Scholars.

Core Values

  • Integrity
  • Relationship-centered
  • Openness
  • Nurturing
  • Excellence
  • Learning


Publications -- The Society publishes Family Medicine, a monthly scholarly journal featuring clinical and educational research articles that help define the discipline. The STFM Messenger provides a bimonthly update of STFM activities. STFM members receive a discounted print subscription to the Annals of Family Medicine, the peer-reviewed research journal that seeks to address important questions in health and the provision of patient-centered, prioritized, high-quality health care.

Meetings -- Attendees connect, learn and share at STFM meetings.  When attending, you'll hear plenary speakers address issues facing academic family medicine, and participate in workshops and other skill-building and informational sessions. Most importantly, they provide an opportunity for individuals with special interests to come together, share information, and plan their activities.

Networking -- STFM members place a high value on the opportunities provided for communication among individuals with common interests and goals. At any given time, there are 30 to 40 special interest groups (officially named Groups on...) operating within the Society. These groups provide an opportunity for you to become involved in your area of special interest.