“Whether or not I join, I still receive the legislative benefits of ISMS membership."
Joining ISMS is about strength in numbers and professional pride. The more physicians we represent, the more power we have as a group, and the more we can accomplish for our patients and our profession. When you remain a potential member, our strength remains unfulfilled. In addition to our legislative advocacy, there are a number of financial benefits to membership, from educational opportunities to discounted services.
"I belong to too many associations already."
ISMS is the most effective organization representing the interests of Illinois' physicians. While you may receive specific benefits from other professional associations, ISMS is the only organization that speaks for all physicians and all medical specialties in Illinois.
"I don't have time to be a member."
We understand that your focus is taking care of patients, which leaves you little time to fight the large-scale battles we face as a profession. Membership means you’re putting ISMS to work for you, whether it's advocating on your behalf in Springfield or Washington, DC, meeting with third-party payors to alleviate hassles, developing practice management tools and seminars for you and your staff, or spearheading public awareness campaigns to improve the public health.
"I can't afford to join, it's too expensive."
Continuous Membership is a new ISMS membership program. Now you can pay your membership monthly through an automatic recurring debit from your credit card or checking account. Regular membership is just $47.50 per month, plus county medical society dues; there are also discounts available for physicians in their first four years of medical practice. Membership to ISMS pays back dividends on your investment with an extensive package of benefits and services.
"ISMS only represents specialists." OR "ISMS only represents primary
care physicians."
ISMS members practice in rural communities and large urban settings. They range from physicians in solo practice to those employed by large multi-specialty clinics. This breadth of experience lends significant credibility to our arguments as we continue to fight for increased access to health care for our patients.
“Why should I join ISMS when the organization is run by a bunch of old guys?”
Not true. Throughout ISMS – its committees, its Board, its House of Delegates – there are women, young physicians, medical students and residents who actively participate. We work hard to meet the unique needs of our diverse membership. For example, we’ve provided programs for women and employed physicians and educational webinars that cater to our younger colleagues. Try us - even for one year - and you'll see that ISMS is truly an inclusive organization, one whose policies and actions are dictated by a democratic process at the House of Delegates.
"I disagree with the policies of ISMS." OR "I disagree with past decisions of ISMS."
ISMS is a democratic organization, and no member is required to agree with the majority on every issue. ISMS policy is determined by majority vote only after all sides of the issue have been considered and debated. As a member there are many avenues for you to participate in the policy process, as a non-member there are none.
"I don't always agree with IMPAC-supported candidates."
IMPAC is a separate, voluntary, non-partisan committee supporting candidates who share the views of the medical profession. By helping these candidates we are ultimately helping shape legislation and the regulations that affect physicians every day. Also remember that politics is the art of compromise and there are many instances where we need support from both sides of the aisle.
"I'm just not interested."
What issues could we work on to pique your interest?
Download a Membership Application