The American Academy of Family Physicians is the national association of family doctors. It is one of the largest national medical organizations, with 124,500 members in 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam, as well as internationally.

Until October 3, 1971, it was known as the American Academy of General Practice. The name was changed in order to more accurately reflect the changing nature of primary health care.

The AAFP was founded in 1947 to promote and maintain high quality standards for family doctors who are providing continuing comprehensive health care to the public.

The Southeastern Family Medicine Forum convenes annually to share challenges, successes, and ideas of mutual interest across regional chapters. By exchanging concerns and lessons learned, members reduce duplication, identify what's working, and address issues specific to their states. The Forum explores joint initiatives spanning chapter administration, research, education, family medicine residency training, legislation, funding, economics, and other matters affecting family medicine and the American Academy of Family Physicians chapters.