Official definition

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in promoting the professional interests of their members and the profession as a whole. These establishments may conduct research; develop statistics; sponsor quality and certification standards; lobby public officials; or publish newsletters, books, or periodicals for distribution to their members. Illustrative Examples: Bar associations Learned societies Dentists' associations Peer review boards Engineers' associations Professional standards review boards Health professionals' associations Scientists' associations Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in--