Special Interest Groups
Special interest groups (SIGs) are a forum where APS members can meet and discuss a field or topic of common interest. SIG membership is a member benefit, and SIGs meet annually at the APS Scientific Meeting.
Join a SIG
Start connecting with other members on specific topics and areas that are relevant to you by contacting APS at list@americanpainsociety.org to join an existing SIG. Please consult the APS Listserv Terms of Use before joining.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Measurement of Pain and Its Impact
Pain in Infants, Children, and Adolescents
Sex & Gender in Pain and Analgesia
SIG Leadership and Activities
Each year, a representative elected by each SIG submits an annual report to the APS Board of Directors. These representatives also serve as liaisons to the Scientific Program Committee Chair to prevent overlap of topics and ensure that SIG needs are reflected in the rest of the scientific program. SIGs designate the topic and format of their meetings held during the APS Annual Scientific Meeting, representatives work with other SIG members to select topics and formats appropriate for their members.
SIG meetings are open to all APS members on a space-available basis and do not conflict with other annual scientific meeting sessions.
All SIGs must operate in accordance with general policies approved by the board of directors. A collective calendar of SIG Chair activities is available.
Procedure to Establish a New SIG
APS encourages the formation of new SIGs. Any group of twenty-five or more APS members may apply for the formation of a Special Interest Group. The letter of application must include:
- the name of the proposed SIG and the inaugural chair
- a description of the proposed activities and scientific focus
- the names and signatures of the 25 founding members on the petition form
Download a Letter of Application
The SIG Chair should mail or email the letter of application to the APS National Office for subsequent approval by the APS Board or Directors or its Executive Committee. The APS President will provide verbal or written notification of the decision to the SIG Chair. For additional information about forming a SIG, e-mail APS at info@americanpainsociety.org.
