Women in Medicine (WIM) is an organization started in 1984 as a medical education retreat for lesbian physicians, their partners and their children. The annual conference provides CME credits for physicians. The conference also includes non-medical topics of interest to both physicians and their partners.

Since 1984, many members of the WIM community have organized to provide a conference that combines high quality medical education with a setting that fosters professional networking and personal growth for lesbian physicians and their families across the nation, and around the world.

Historically, WIM conferences alternate annually between east coast and west coast venues. This allows women from both coasts to have a "local" trip every other year, and gives the women hosting the event a chance to highlight local talent when selecting speakers and entertainment. The quality of speakers is consistently high, and the topics covered are broad and leading edge. 

In 2012 the retreat was held in Napa, California. The topics ranged from a scientific study on The Origins of Diversity of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity to general medical topics such as Pain Medicine - More than Just Prescribing a Pill. These were both Plenary Sessions for all. There were also many times with Concurrent Workshops including practical skills such as How to Write: Overcoming the Fear of Publication, general medical topics such as Breast Reconstruction and general interest such as AMWA and AWHS Approach Centennials.

 The retreat also offers many opportunities for networking including small group sessions as well as shared meals. The opening dinner featured elevator speeches by everyone. Another evening showcased an excellent Indian Lesbian comedienne together with an auction to benefit the Lesbian Health Fund. Attendees toured the  area during the free afternoon. The final evening held Awards, a Talent Show and Karaoke for the night owls.

 The 30^th Anniversary meeting will be held in Clearwater, Florida Wednesday, June 26 to Sunday June 30, 2013. Pretrips for a day or a long weekend are being arranged at Walt Disney World. AMWA would like to organize a contingent to attend. If you are interested in going or would just like to connect with other Lesbians in AMWA, please email amwalesbians@gmail.com.

Through its annual retreats, WIM provides cutting-edge continuing medical education for lesbian physicians, a forum for discussion of front-line research on lesbian health issues, non-medical seminars of interest to all, as well as rejuvenating social opportunities for children and adults alike. Essential networking and mentoring opportunities abound, with a special focus on the needs of medical students and residents.

Laurel Waters MD FCAP FASCP

AMWA Treasurer and Co-Chair of Membership & Marketing Committee