[1] In 1999, the Arnold P. Gold Foundation spearheaded the effort to create the honor society, wanting to improve healthcare and the culture of medical schools.

[3] The mission of GHHS "is to recognize individuals who are exemplars of humanistic patient care and who can serve as role models, mentors, and leaders in medicine.

"[4] In 2009, a study published in the Journal of Surgical Education found that membership in GHHS had a positive impact on a medical student's selection for residency.

A 2018 study published in the journal Teaching and Learning in Medicine concluded that GHHS members "scored significantly higher on average over 4 years than non-GHHS inductees on clinical empathy, patient-centered beliefs, and tolerance of ambiguity.

[4] [11] Members are elected by their colleagues and staff and are reviewed by a screening committee based on their contribution to humanism and their Communication skills, community service, compassion, integrity, and moral judgment.