Founded in 1969, AAHC represents the senior leadership of academic health centers as members who are educating health professionals, conducting biomedical and clinical research, and delivering comprehensive patient care, all with the goal of advancing and applying knowledge to improve health and well-being. Working to improve the nation's health and well-being by strengthening, advocating, and leading on behalf of its member institutions, AAHC recognizes that its members are essential resources for world-class healthcare delivery, education and research, as well as for their leadership role in economic development and technological advancement. The Association works to enhance and mobilize the intellectual capital, influence, and resources of academic health centers towards the overarching goal of improving the global health care system.