The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists begins its annual clinical meeting today in San Francisco. And so, I guess, does the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Where there was one organization, there now are two, and confusion abounds. I gather that even some ACOG members and staffers aren't sure exactly where the College leaves off and the Congress starts.

Here's "the basic explanation" I got from ACOG's press office when I inquired about the new name on the ACOG website:

The College and the Congress are two separate and distinct legal entities, although they are companion organizations.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is a 501(c)(3) organization and its activities include producing the College's practice guidelines and other educational material.

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is a new 501(c)(6) organization that was formed December 31, 2008 and is operational as of January 1, 2010. The Congress focuses on socioeconomic, political, and grievance activities for its members.