Facts
PAPS was founded in 1967 by a small group of pediatric surgeons from Pacific Rim countries. Their objective was to promote both educational and social ties among its members. The success of the organization is demonstrated by its current membership that includes 413 surgeons residing in 22 countries.
History
1964 - Journal of Pediatric Surgery Incorporated
1966 - Articles of Incorporation of JPS changed to
Western Association of Pediatric Surgeons
1967 - Articles of Incorporation of WAPS changed to
PAPS
1967 - Preliminary organizational meeting in San
Francisco
1968 - Founders Organizing Meeting of PAPS held in
Seattle, Washington and Rosario on Orcas Island, USA and
constitution and by-laws formulated
1969 - 1st Meeting of full membership at Ojai,
California, USA
1971 - Stephen L. Gans records history of
incorporation
The Coe Medal
The Coe Medal is the highest honor awarded by PAPS. In 1984, John Stevenson was placed in charge of plans to develop the medal of honor bearing the likeness of Herb Coe. US $ 1,800 was allocated for first 50 medals. A committee of John Stevenson, Alexander Bill, Douglas Cohen, Morio Kasai and Murray Kliman established the criteria for awarding the medal.
Membership Guidelines
All applicants must devote at least 90% of his/her professional time to pediatric surgery.
Geographic – The applicant must currently practice pediatric surgery in a country bordering the Pacific Ocean (Canadian and United States applicants must practice in or west of the Rocky Mountain area), and must have done so continuously for a minimum of one year at the time of application. He/she must continue to practice within these areas in order to become a member.
Invited – A board member may invite an application from a pediatric surgeon who meets all requirements for membership except the geographic requirement. Following the completion of pediatric surgical training, he/she must have attended at least three PAPS meetings within the preceding ten-year period, and must have been an active participant in those meetings. While not required, the board will consider persons who have trained in the Pacific area more favorably.