Prospectus
MEMBERSHIP NEWS & UPDATES
VOL. 41 | ISSUE 1 | 2015
The Value of Membership Michele Lagana, OD, NYSOA President-Elect
You might be asking yourself why I’m writing an article about the value of membership in our professional associations when you’re already a member and understand its importance and benefits. What you might not be aware of is the declining membership of young ODs in the AOA, NYSOA and local societies. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 50% of young ODs (those graduating within the past 5 years) never become a member of our professional associations after graduation Even worse is that approximately 30% of young ODs who do join drop their membership in the first five years of joining as their dues increase. This trend in declining young OD membership is worrisome as natural attrition of experienced ODs, who are members, occurs. Not only are we losing strength in numbers but we are also missing out on the fresh perspective, technological savviness and enthusiasm of our young colleagues. This disturbing downward trend in organizational membership is not unique to optometry. In 1965, 75% of all physicians belonged to the American Medical Association, in 2012 fewer than 25% belonged. Other types of groups are not immune. Membership in the US Junior Chamber of Commerce dropped 64 percent in 17 years. Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions and the PTA have also seen a similar decrease. Young ODs may not realize the benefits of belonging to their professional associations, such as:
1. Advocacy: protecting our right to practice optometry through legal, legislative and lobbying efforts on a state and national level, obtaining recognition and equal treatment as a healthcare provider, and ensuring fair pay. 2. Member benefits: such as reduced CE and/or free CE through local, state and national conferences and ExcelOD; reduced cost of disability, malpractice and group health; retirement planning; to name a few. 3. Networking: with other colleagues to discuss cases, promote referrals, mentorship opportunities, job opportunities and camaraderie. 4. Volunteerism/Community Service: making a difference in the community, the state and the profession through public service programs, joining association committees, educating the public, and participating in fundraisers. Continued on Page 6
| Inside | LEGISLATIVE UPDATE................................................2 COUNCIL’S CORNER....................................................4 NYSOA 2015 AWARD WINNERS.................................4 DMV ONLINE VISION REGISTRY.................................6 2015 CVC CONTRIBUTOR LIST.................................10 NYSOA 2015 PAC CONTRIBUTOR LIST....................12 NYSOA MEMBERSHIP REMINDER..............................6