The Association of Haitian Physicians Abroad was founded in August 1972, by a group of Haitian physicians determined to mark their presence as a growing ethnic entity in America, to foster professional alliances, and to promote the health and interest of the Haitian immigrant community at large. The first general assembly, which took place in New York’s Harlem Hospital on November 12, 1972, brought together sixty-four physicians with a common agenda. Their objectives, subsequently sanctioned in the Article of Incorporation and bylaws of the association, were laid down as follows:
- To help the Haitian physician in the fulfillment of his professional and social life.
- To serve as advocate for the Haitian immigrant community in health related matters.
- To cultivate professional ties, with the Alma mater.
- To contribute to the advancement of medicine and the betterment of public health in Haiti.
The essence of the association has been defined by its obligations toward its members, toward the Haitian community and toward our homeland. Haitian physicians in various parts of the North American Continent received the news of the creation of AMHE with great enthusiasm, and soon several local chapters were created.
Thus, came into being:
- The New York Chapter
- The Baltimore/Washington Chapter in March, 1973
- The Chicago Chapter founded in April, 1973
- The Saint Louis Chapter founded in May 1973
- The Montreal Chapter founded in November, 1974
- The Florida Chapter founded in 1982
- The New Jersey Chapter founded in October, 1988