The Academy is the professional organization for physicians specializing in hospice and palliative medicine. Membership is also open to nurses and other healthcare providers who are committed to improving the quality of life of patients and families facing life-threatening or serious conditions. For 20 years, the Academy has dedicated itself to advancing hospice and palliative medicine and improving the care of patients with life- threatening or serious conditions. Originally organized as the Academy of Hospice Physicians in 1988, the Academy began with 250 charter members and has grown to well over 3,600 in 2008.