FP Report -- 1999 Post-Assembly Edition
Bylaws amendments streamline process for belonging to AAFP
The Academy just simplified its membership process. New AAFP Bylaws changes, adopted by the Congress of Delegates Sept. 14-16 in Orlando, Fla., support "seamless membership," and a far-ranging plan reviewed by the Congress promotes a "once a member, always a member" culture.
Bylaws amendments. On completion of residency training, resident members will automatically become active members. (That's right -- no application needed.) Residency graduates who relocate will automatically transfer to their new chapters (again, no application needed).
New student members will have a one-time dues payment for the duration of their student membership. Current student members who have already paid dues will not need to pay more dues as students.
To speed up the process for joining the AAFP, designees of chapter boards may approve membership applications. In addition, the AAFP Board may delegate its authority to waive or reduce dues.
Other aspects of plan. The Membership Master Plan for Satisfaction and Retention has a plus for members new to practice. National dues will be reduced by $200 in the first year of practice, $125 in the second year and $75 in the third year.
The plan lists specific strategies to gain and retain members. A sampling: Bring together members with similar interests. Solicit members' input on key issues. Contact members in jeopardy of losing their membership. Educate employers, especially HMOs, about the value of AAFP membership. Ensure an Academy-wide commitment to customer service. Use research data in developing new member services. Monitor the effects of generational issues on the use of AAFP products and services.
FP Report is published by the AAFP News Department. Copyright © 1999 by American Academy of Family Physicians.
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