Membership in the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians (MAFP) means being part of the state’s largest physician specialty organization + the national American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). You belong to both the state chapter + the national organization.
From professional development to advocacy and clinical resources, MAFP/AAFP membership provides tailored support at every stage of a family physician’s career.
Membership Options
- Become an Active Member
For licensed, practicing family physicians looking to grow their career, connect with peers and strengthen the specialty. - Become a Family Medicine Resident Member
For physicians who are currently training in an approved residency. - Become a Medical Student Member
For students who are enrolled in an approved allopathic or osteopathic medical school. Membership dues are free! - Become a Supporting Member
For non-family physicians or family physicians who don’t qualify for Active membership but want to stay engaged and support the specialty. - Become a Life Member
For longtime members (25+ years Active, 5 years continuous) who are age 70+ or fully retired.
For additional membership levels and more info, see the online AAFP Membership resources or call the AAFP Member Resource Center at 800-274-2237.
Member Perspectives

Retired Member:
“The MAFP/AAFP have been steadfast and reliable in advocating for changes that benefit our patients. While most of those changes also indirectly benefit family doctors…there has never been hesitation to do what’s right for [patients]. Over my 37 years in medicine, I have not been disappointed.” – Glenn Nemec, MD

Established Physician:
“Being a member has been valuable to my personal and professional development. It has provided me with opportunities to network and collaborate with other family medicine professionals from across Minnesota.” – Ese Aghenta, MD, MPH, FAAFP

New Practicing Physician:
“As a new-to-practice member, it is great to realize that, even after leaving residency, there is still a larger shared experience of caring for patients and having “in the trenches” support. Medicine is a small community, and jobs can change over time, but it is reassuring to know that you are not alone in the trials you experience.” – Nathaniel Guimont, MD

Resident Physician:
“At the end of the day, my ability to advocate for my patients can only go as far as health policy allows, so membership with both the MAFP and AAFP ensures my voice is heard at the legislative level.” – Sheryl Fuehrer, MD

Medical Student:
“The MAFP provides a foundation for medical students to learn about family medicine, get involved in advocacy and connect with peers and mentors who share a passion for supporting the health of our communities through family medicine.” – Austen Ott
Member Benefits
At every stage of your career, the MAFP + AAFP offer support and resources to help you grow, succeed and stay connected. Here’s a snapshot:
Medical Student
Build skills + connect. Membership is free.
- Get help navigating the Match and planning your path in family medicine.
- Access tools to help with exam preparation.
- Build leadership and advocacy skills and learn wellness strategies.
- Make connections and find support through mentorship, the FUTURE conference, grant opportunities and more.
Resident Physician
Prepare for practice + expand your network.
- Access clinical resources for ITE and Board exam preparation.
- Connect with peers and mentors through online communities, leadership opportunities and events.
- Get career-ready with contract resources + benchmark data.
- Grow through leadership + grant opportunities, advocacy + well-being programs.
New Practicing Physician
Strengthen your skills + shape your career.
- Stay up to date with clinical skills and the business side of medicine.
- Build your career with leadership development + contract review/negotiation skills.
- Connect with peers through interest groups, events and networking.
- Advocate for family medicine and help move the specialty forward.
Established Physician
Streamline your practice + prioritize wellness.
- Get help reducing administrative burden and supporting your well-being.
- Maintain certifications and polish skills through Board preparation, continuing medical education and Fellow designation.
- Get business guidance on coding, privileging and practice needs.
Late Career/Retired Physician
Stay current + give back.
- Keep your skills sharp with updated clinical content.
- Champion the specialty through advocacy.
- Mentor and support the next generation.
Member Reinstatement
Has it been a while since you were a member? Learn about reinstating your membership.