To help ensure accurate use of ACP credentials, we would like to remind members that the designation MACP does not mean Member of the American College of Physicians. Rather, MACP signifies Mastership in the American College of Physicians, one of ACP's highest honors. We encourage members to review the distinctions between Fellowship (FACP) and Mastership (MACP) and use these credentials appropriately in professional communications, publications, and biographical materials.

Understanding the Meaning of MACP and FACP Credentials

The American College of Physicians (ACP) recognizes physician excellence through two distinguished credentials: Fellowship (FACP) and Mastership (MACP). Both designations reflect a physician's commitment to internal medicine, professional achievement, and service to patients and communities.

FACP: A Mark of Professional Excellence

FACP stands for Fellow of the American College of Physicians. Fellowship is a peer-reviewed and peer-supported credential that serves as a public reflection of excellence within the internal medicine profession. The designation signifies an ongoing dedication to internal medicine, the patients physicians care for, and the communities they serve.

Physicians who earn Fellowship have demonstrated professional accomplishments, leadership, service, and commitment to the highest standards of patient care and ethical medical practice. The FACP credential is recognized by colleagues, patients, and healthcare organizations as a symbol of credibility, achievement, and engagement in the profession.

MACP: ACP's Highest Membership Honor

MACP stands for Mastership in the American College of Physicians. Mastership is one of ACP's highest honors and is awarded to a select group of highly accomplished Fellows who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and impact in internal medicine. ACP bylaws state that MACPs are selected based on their integrity, impact in practice or medical research, and other significant attainments in the science or art of medicine.

Recipients of Mastership are recognized for distinguished contributions in areas such as clinical practice, education, research, leadership, health policy, volunteerism, administration, and service to the medical profession and their communities. MACPs represent an elite group of physicians whose accomplishments have advanced internal medicine and improved patient care.

Maintaining the Privilege of Using ACP Credentials

ACP reminds all Fellowship and Mastership recipients that these credentials are tied to active membership status. Recipients of Mastership and Fellowship who are dropped from ACP membership rolls due to nonpayment of dues are not permitted to use the credentials of MACP or FACP until their membership is reinstated, and they return to good standing.

Maintaining ACP membership not only preserves the privilege of using these respected credentials but also demonstrates continued engagement with the College and its mission to advance the health and well-being of patients through excellence in internal medicine.

FACP = Fellow of the American College of Physicians

MACP = Mastership in the American College of Physicians

This distinction helps ensure ACP honors and credentials are represented accurately across professional and chapter communications.

Membership badges for your electronic signatures.

Let your colleagues and patients know that you are proud of your affiliation with ACP by adding your membership badge to your email signature.

How to add a graphic to your email signature:

  1. Right click image to “Save image as”
  2. Save it in your documents (i.e., My Pictures)
  3. Go to your email inbox
  4. Outlook: Click on File/Options/Mail/Signatures
  5. Gmail: Click on gear icon/Settings/Signature
  6. Click on the picture icon above the signature graphic space
  7. Browse and select the ACP Signature Graphic to add it to your signature

Badges

Back to the September 2026 issue of ACP Global