IMSANZ was formed in 1997 with the amalgamation of the Australian Society of Consultant Physicians in General Medicine (ASCPIGM) and the New Zealand Society of Consultant Physicians in Internal Medicine (NZSCPIM). The realisation that general physicians needed a strong united approach to the rigours of the medico-political landscape in both countries led to unity of purpose across the Tasman. There are national and regional issues that require specific resolutions, but there is a greater need to promote the role of the generalist in holistic patient care within all health-care systems.

At the 2013 Annual General Meeting, members voted to change from a NSW Incorporated Association to a Company Limited by Guarantee. On 1 July 2014, this change was registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Internal Medicine Society of Australia and New Zealand became the Internal Medicine Society of Australia and New Zealand Limited.

In 1997 IMSANZ enlisted the aid of renowned graphic artist, Linda Warner, who was asked to create a simple design for a logo which would go some way to encapsulating the aspirations of the general physician.

The thrust of the final design is to create the wholeness of the practice of consultant general medicine by utilising stylised figures with outstretched arms to indicate the personal approach. These figures are arranged in a centrally focused design as though in consultation. The arm gesture indicated the caring nature of our practice. The design also has emblematic qualities and a crest-like appearance, thus projecting the professionalism of our consultant practice.