Proposed Membership Category Ammendments

I agree with the new categories, in particular the category of non-physician members. I also feel strongly that the cost of membership/conference registration should be different for each group, relative to the difference in income between the groups.

I would clarify where medical students fit within this framework (I assume trainee members) and exactly when one "graduates" from trainee to physician status.

I agree this changes.

It may be best to clearly state the dues structure for each of the member categories? For example, does an emeritus member pay dues, reduced dues or any dues? Thank you,

I agree

i agree

Although I agree with the concept, I think the dues for each category should reflect the privileges and should be stated in this motion, either in absolute values or relative to the fee for physician members

I agree with changes.

Agree

Agree with changes as is

Did there used to be a student category? Although trainees may not hold office, can they have leadership in any committees? Does this need to be defined. In order to promote education as a viable career path, likely trainees need to be encouraged to be active participants on committees and potentially be eligible to chair subcommittees, etc.

The "Trainee" category may be a bit amorphous. I was technically in this category for over a decade as a student, then a resident, then a research fellow, and as a clinical fellow. Towards the end of the decade, I was nominated for office several times although I was technically a trainee. I am not sure that this limitation for trainees holding office is appropriate. There may even be certain roles (diversity, trainee perspectives in education) where a trainee may be a more suitable choice for a position in office on the Board or Program committee. Perhaps the limitation that trainees cannot be part of the Executive committee would make more sense.

I agree with all of the comments that have been made and otherwise support the amendments as written.

Good job!

Agree

I agree with the comments below. Trainee may need more definition. Also should define whether trainees can be members of committees. If they cannot hold office would add statement that this would include not chairing committees since committee chairs are part of the board. Would trainees include post docs if they are working in surgery departments in education?

May I suggest ‘unprofessional behavior’ be added to the termination/suspension section?
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This would include, but not limited to, unwanted written, oral and physical contact in person or via social media or poor moral fiber.

I agree. Thank you.

As noted by others, the dues fee schedule should be determined by membership category as well as by country of residence. I would propose that dues be formally waived for all Trainee Members in acknowledgement of the mission of the Association.

I would further propose that an additional section describing Resignation from the Association (voluntary membership termination that is not triggered by non-payment of dues) be added and that members may resign upon written notice to the Secretary. This would permit a member to re-join at a later date without penalty of dues non-payment. This would be useful for members with temporary financial hardships or other impediments to membership who intend to resume membership at a later date.

Finally, although ineligibility for office is noted for some member categories, it would also be useful to state that all members can serve on Committees.