Eligibility

Individuals with a demonstrated interest in rheumatology practice, education and research or administration are actively involved in the organization. Students in the health professions are also welcome.

Categories of Membership
Acceptance as a member in the Association shall be at the discretion of the Association in the following categories:

1. Members
2. Associate Members
3. Honorary Members
4. Affiliate Members

1. Members

   Qualifications
   To qualify as an AHPA member, an applicant shall be eligible for membership in his or her professional discipline’s national association; shall have demonstrated an interest in rheumatology practice, research, or education; and shall be a professional in fields including, but not limited to, physical therapy, social work, psychology, occupational therapy, pharmacy, dietetics and nursing.

   Rights and Privileges
   After membership acceptance and payment of any entrance fees, dues and assessments, an AHPA member shall have all the rights and privileges of membership, including the right to vote, hold office and serve on committees.

   Application Procedure
   To be considered for membership in AHPA, an applicant must submit an application form with payment for the membership fee. Professional designation must be indicated.

2. Associate Members

   Qualifications
   An Associate Member shall have demonstrated an interest in and shall be employed in rheumatology practice, research or education. Examples include, but are not limited to, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapy assistants, nursing assistants, laboratory technicians, non-degreed clinical research coordinators, medical assistants, licensed vocational nurses, radiology technicians and rheumatology office staff.

   Rights and Privileges
   After acceptance as a member, and payment of any entrance fees, dues and assessments, an Associate Member shall have rights and privileges of membership as determined by the Executive Committee, including the right to serve on Association committees, vote or hold office in the Association.

   Application Procedure
   To be considered as an Associate Member an applicant must obtain the signature of a current member of AHPA or CRA who is familiar with the applicant's professional competence, ethics and moral standing and may be accepted as a member by the Executive Committee at any of its regular or special meetings.

3. Honorary Members

   Qualifications
   The Executive Committee may appoint a Member who has retired from active practice as an Honorary Member.

   Rights and Privileges
   An Honorary Member shall have rights and privileges of membership as determined by the Executive Committee, shall pay such entrance fees, dues or assessments as shall be determined by the AHPA Board of Directors and shall not have the right to vote, hold office, or serve on any committee of the Association. Honorary members shall not be required to pay registration fees.

4. Affiliate Members

   Affiliate members shall be companies, corporations, societies, associations, partnerships or individuals which are engaged in activities which may be usefully carried on in conjunction with the activities of AHPA and/or provide aid to AHPA in the attainment of its objectives, and which, after signifying their willingness, shall be elected to this class of membership by the Board and retain such membership at the pleasure of the Board. Affiliate Members shall not be eligible to attend any Board meeting and shall not have voting privileges. Affiliate members will be reviewed by the Board on an annual basis and require your annual request for ongoing affiliate status. Affiliate Members may resign at any time by mailing a resignation to our membership chair.