The National Medical Association

Health equity begins with civic engagement.

The National Medical Association is proud to highlight recent coverage featuring Roger A Mitchell Jr MD, 126th President, discussing the critical connection between voting and health outcomes in Black communities.

In the article, Dr. Mitchell emphasizes that policies shape access to healthcare, education, housing, environmental conditions, and other factors that directly impact health. As physicians, we understand that voting is not just a civic responsibility, it is a powerful social determinant of health that influences the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

Advancing health equity requires more than treating illness. It requires engagement, advocacy, and ensuring that every community has a voice in the decisions that affect their health and future.

Read the article and join the conversation https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2026/06/18/bad-policy-costs-lives-medical-professionals-urged-to-improve-black-patient-outcomes-by-voting/

‘Bad policy costs lives.’ Medical professionals urged to improve Black patient outcomes — by voting The president of the National Medical Association told more than 500 Black medical professionals that they have a strong voice with their vote and need to use it to improve healthcare.

The National Medical Association was honored to have 126th President, Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr., serve as a keynote speaker at the Black Health Summit hosted by the Health Foundation of South Florida.

During this important conversation, Dr. Mitchell addressed the ongoing pursuit of health equity and highlighted the critical connection between civic engagement and community health. He emphasized that voting is more than a civic responsibility, it is a powerful social determinant of health that influences policies, resources, healthcare access, and the overall well-being of our communities.

Thank you to the Health Foundation of South Florida for bringing together healthcare leaders, advocates, and community stakeholders committed to creating healthier, more equitable futures for all.

A historic moment for medicine, leadership, and service.

The National Medical Association proudly recognizes Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr., 126th President of the NMA, as he delivered the invocation during the installation of Dr. Willie Underwood III as the 181st President of the American Medical Association.

This moment represents the continued strength of collaboration across organized medicine and highlights the leadership, excellence, and commitment to health equity demonstrated by physician leaders dedicated to improving the health of all communities.

We congratulate Dr. Underwood on this remarkable achievement and look forward to his leadership during this historic chapter for the American Medical Association.

Join us in Tupelo, Mississippi, for the Magnolia State Professional Association (MSPA) Conference, where healthcare professionals, community leaders, and advocates will come together under the theme:

"Collaboration: Celebrating Our Past, Engaging the Present, and Investing in the Future."

The National Medical Association is proud to share that Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr., 126th President of the National Medical Association, will be in attendance and serving as the keynote speaker during the Allen–Dumas–Harrison–Brown–Pillars Awards Luncheon on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

We are also excited that Dr. Virginia Caine, Past President of the National Medical Association, will be participating as a featured presenter, sharing her expertise on preparing for the rapidly changing healthcare landscape and the opportunities and challenges facing healthcare professionals today.

This outstanding conference will feature educational sessions, leadership development, networking opportunities, health equity discussions, and recognition of excellence in medicine while bringing together professionals committed to advancing healthcare throughout Mississippi and beyond.

📍 Cadence Arena Conference Center
Tupelo, Mississippi
📅 June 11–14, 2026

We look forward to connecting with colleagues, partners, and future leaders as we continue working toward healthier communities and a stronger healthcare workforce.