Established December 1982 as an interunion organization falling under the South African Affairs Committee of the General Conference with headquarters in Bethlehem, South Africa.
The forerunner organization, Adventist Medical Services, was disbanded and the private practice medical work of the South African Union Conference and the Southern Union Conference was united in one organization under the leadership of W. E. Staples, M.D.
The aims of APHS are:
1. To help finance the establishment of Seventh-day Adventist private medical, dental, and paramedical practices within its territories to serve the church, particularly where the church is struggling.
2. To support and encourage young people to prepare for service in southern Africa and also other mission appointments.
3. To assist in the planning and establishment of medical institutions and clinics where the need should arise.
4. To conduct spiritual retreats for medical, dental, and paramedical workers and students.
5. To assist in the establishment of a blended ministry program with the territory of southern Africa. A number of doctors have been ordained to the gospel ministry and are assisting in the pastoral work of the church.
6. To provide pastoral care for all Seventh-day Adventist medical, dental, and paramedical professionals and students.