Strengthening PCMS Through Partnership with the Arizona Medical Association

Strengthening Pima County Medical Society Through Partnership with the Arizona Medical Association
via ArMA Press Release

The Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) recognizes and deeply respects the century-long legacy of the Pima County Medical Society (PCMS) as a vital force for physician leadership, local advocacy, and community health in Southern Arizona. Tucson’s medical community holds a unique identity—and ArMA is enthusiastic about the opportunity to support and amplify this identity through a strategic, values-aligned partnership.

By partnering with ArMA, PCMS will retain its distinct voice, governance, and local relevance while gaining new tools and capacity to meet the moment. Read the PCMS_Scope of Work Proposal

A Partnership Aligned with PCMS Priorities: Public Policy, Adaptation, and Advocacy.

ArMA is uniquely positioned to address all three.

• Public Policy: ArMA’s statewide legislative and regulatory presence ensures PCMS members will have a stronger influence on the issues shaping physician practice in Southern Arizona. PCMS will have a dedicated seat within ArMA’s advocacy coalition, amplifying local concerns while strengthening statewide unity.

• Adaptation: With ArMA’s infrastructure, PCMS can become nimbler and more responsive to member needs, technological change, and emerging healthcare dynamics. We offer seamless integration of member services, modern digital tools, and real-time data insights to support growth and innovation.

• Advocacy: Beyond the Capitol, advocacy means empowering physicians at every level. ArMA supports local efforts—whether that’s representing the profession to the media, mobilizing members on public health issues, or partnering with community organizations—ensuring PCMS’s advocacy is both bold and deeply rooted in place.

Operational Benefits and Cost Savings
By aligning with ArMA, PCMS will reduce administrative and overhead expenses currently born independently by assuming all duties currently being managed by PCMS’s ED, part-time Comms staff and outside accounting service provider. Services include, but are not limited to:

• Association Management Costs: ArMA offers full-service management, including financial administration (via SAGE), strategic planning, board support, and database maintenance—all of which may allow PCMS to eliminate third-party vendors or consultants currently fulfilling these functions.

• Event Management and CME Coordination: Rather than outsourcing or overburdening physician volunteers, ArMA provides turn-key support for events, networking functions, and educational programs—integrated with platforms like Joyn— for a streamlined member experience.

• Staffing and Technology Infrastructure: PCMS will benefit from shared tools, insurance, HR support, communications software, and policy resources, minimizing duplicative expenses.

A Stronger, More Sustainable PCMS
This proposed partnership does not diminish PCMS—it ensures its future. Local leadership remains in control, while gaining access to experienced support staff, sophisticated advocacy resources, and economies of scale.

Together, we will build a more adaptive, visible, and resilient PCMS—one that continues to reflect the values of Tucson’s physicians while expanding its reach and capacity.

We welcome the opportunity to move forward in shaping this partnership and are available to provide additional financial comparisons or an in-person discussion with our leadership.

Read the PCMS-ArMA Scope of Work Proposal