Individual Membership

Application for Individual Membership

Join the Global Orthoptic Network and Advance Your Career, Share Knowledge, and Connect Internationally

Eligibility for Individual Membership

The International Orthoptic Association (IOA) offers Individual Membership to qualified orthoptists who wish to connect with the global orthoptic community. The following criteria apply:

1. Professional Qualification

   • Applicants must be certified orthoptists or equivalent professionals with recognized qualifications in orthoptics.

2. Commitment to the Profession

   • Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to advancing the science of orthoptics through education, clinical practice, or research.

3. National Representation

   • Individual membership is available in countries where there is no established national orthoptic association affiliated with the IOA.
   • Only one individual per country can represent the IOA where no national body exists.

Membership Fees

• The IOA operates on an annual billing cycle for Individual Orthoptist Membership.
• The first year of membership is free of charge for all new members.
• After the complimentary year, the membership fee is £10 per year.

Fee Exemptions for Low-Income Countries

Qualified orthoptists from non-IOA member countries in low-income economies, as defined annually by the World Bank, may apply for an exemption from IOA membership fees. The following conditions apply:

1. Exemption by Application

   • Orthoptists must apply for fee exemption and provide supporting details.

2. World Bank Parameters

   • Eligibility is based on the annually updated list of low-income economies published by the World Bank.

3. Communication

   • Recognizing challenges with email communication in some regions, orthoptists from these countries may submit applications and communicate with the IOA via WhatsApp.

4. Annual Renewal

   • Exemptions are valid for one year. Members must reapply annually to extend their complimentary membership.

5. Application Monitoring

   • The Membership Committee will review and monitor all applications and qualifications for exemption to ensure compliance with defined parameters.

Application Process

To apply for Individual Membership, applicants must:

1. Submit an Application Form: Provide details of professional qualifications, current practice, and a statement of interest.
2. Provide Supporting Documentation:
   • Proof of certification or qualification as an orthoptist.
   • Evidence of current practice, education, or research in orthoptics.
3. For Fee Exemption: Include a request for exemption based on the World Bank low-income economy parameters.
4. Review and Approval: Applications will be reviewed by the IOA Council and the Membership Committee.

Membership Benefits

As an Individual Member, you will enjoy the following benefits:

Professional Development

• Access to IOA educational resources, research materials, and professional guidelines.
• Reduced registration rates for the International Orthoptic Congress and other IOA-sponsored events.

Global Collaboration

• Opportunities to network with orthoptists and healthcare professionals worldwide.
• Participation in IOA initiatives, including professional programs and international collaborations.
• Inclusion in global discussions to help shape the future of orthoptics.

Exclusive Member Resources

• Access to the members-only section of the IOA website, featuring news, surveys, and updates.
• IOA volunteer program opportunities and connections to orthoptic roles worldwide.
• Participation in IOA surveys, such as the Orthoptics Worldwide Survey on working conditions, training, and professional standards.

Why Join the IOA?

As an Individual Member, you become part of an international network committed to advancing orthoptics globally. Membership empowers you to:

• Enhance your professional development through access to education and events.
• Connect with like-minded peers and experts in the field.
• Contribute to the growth, visibility, and recognition of orthoptics worldwide.

Contact Information

For further details or to submit your application for Individual Membership or fee exemption, please contact:
📧 Daisy Godts – Program Coordinator for International Cooperation
📧 Email: belgium@internationalorthoptics.org
📱 WhatsApp Communication: Available for applicants from eligible countries.

Join the IOA as an Individual Member—your first year is free, and exemptions are available for orthoptists in low-income economies. Together, we can shape the future of orthoptics worldwide!