ERS Communication - New Membership Structure
Dear Colleagues,
Since the major change in membership structure and corresponding fee increase in
2010, the ERS has received many complaints from its members in middle- and
low-income countries.
In order to offer a more attractive Membership package, retain the loyalty of
our members and attract former and new members, the ERS decided to investigate
and propose new Membership categories, fees and entitlements that meet these
requirements.
We researched salary levels in different countries and by profession, in order
to be able to propose the fairest fees. The new proposed fees are thus based on
professional activity, gross domestic product (GDP-PPP) levels per capita, and
age.
All members were consulted about this proposal and asked to vote on the change
in July 2013. An overwhelming majority (98%) voted in favour of this change and
the General Assembly have now approved this structure, which will be launched at
the ERS Annual Congress in Barcelona on 7 September.
To summarise, the main changes are as follows:
- the introduction of loyalty fees to members who commit to the ERS over a
long-term period - a 3-year membership comes with a substantial reduction across
all membership categories;
- the introduction of electronic membership with reduced fees for
lower-income countries;
- the introduction of reduced Congress registration fees for all members -
effective as of next year's Congress, Munich 2014;
- provision of the European Respiratory Monograph as an online product for
all members (with a newly revamped website in autumn 2013 to allow for easier
browsing) - print copies will be available with a special discounted rate for
members.
Under the new structure, there are two membership categories, Gold and
Silver. Gold is divided into five sub-categories: Gold, Gold ‘dual' membership
of ERS and an ERS-approved partner organisation, Gold ‘online' (GDP between USD
10,000 and USD 20,000), Gold ‘online' (GDP under USD 10,000) and Gold ‘Senior'
(over 68). Silver has three sub-categories: Silver ‘Scientist' (PhD, non-MD),
Silver ‘Allied Health Professional' and Silver ‘Under 35'. Please
access here further details regarding
membership options, their fees and entitlements or contact Membership department
at members@ersnet.org.
Existing active members will be provided with information regarding their new
membership status and adjustment of their membership period, if applicable.
In its commitment to offering the optimum Membership package for ERS Members,
the ERS Leadership will continue to evaluate and develop our service to better
meet your needs in Respiratory Medicine, now and in the future.
We look forward to seeing you in Barcelona and welcoming you at the ERS stand!
Best wishes
Mina Gaga
ERS Secretary General