AMA stands for which phrase?

• A. Against Medical Advice
• B. American Medical Association
• C. Ante Mortem Advice
• D. Acute Medical Assistance

Answer: (A)

AMA stands for Against Medical Advice. In clinical contexts, this label is used when a patient decides to leave the hospital or refuse a recommended treatment despite the physician’s advice. It signals that the patient understands the risks but chooses to proceed with their own decision. It’s not referring to the American Medical Association, which is a professional organization, nor to terms like Ante Mortem Advice or Acute Medical Assistance. When a patient leaves AMA, clinicians document the discussion, ensure informed refusal, discuss potential consequences, and often arrange follow-up or offer alternative care, sometimes with the patient signing an AMA discharge form to acknowledge the decision.