Following extensive research and analysis, the BDA is launching a new membership scheme and from June 1, 2013 the current ‘one size fits all’ membership will be replaced with three different packages, offering a range of benefits.
At the same time, the BDA is also launching a new online CPD ‘Hub’ which will be available to all members.
The changes are being introduced at a time when regulation of the profession has increased and the BDA has expanded to accommodate the growth in demand for specialist advisory services and readily available information. But not all members need the highly valued one-to-one support.
Dr Martin Fallowfield, Chair of the BDA’s Principal Executive Committee, said “Our members are individuals managing increasingly complex healthcare businesses and have different needs, but we know they want flexibility and choice and expect value at all times. They also expect fairness. After two years of surveys, focus groups and discussion with our members we believe we have reached a solution that is in all of our interests, individually and collectively.”
The three new membership packages are:
Essential (£295) – covering trade union support, access to online advice, subscriptions to the British Dental Journal and BDA News; access to the brand new online CPD system.
Extra (£795) – covering everything in Essential membership plus personal, tailored support and advice via phone or email, and a VIP three-day ticket to the British Dental Conference and Exhibition.
Expert (£1,095) – covering everything in Essential and Extra memberships plus exclusive access to BDA Expert (including over 170 model policies and protocols); two three-day DCP tickets to the British Dental Conference and Exhibition; and a BDJ Clinical Guide.
Concessionary rates will also be available:
Students (£24 a year while at university) – covering a range of benefits including access to e-books, BDA publications and free entry to the Conference and Exhibition.
Those over 65 (£150) – for access to the Essential membership package.
Peter Ward, BDA Chief Executive, said "I believe these changes offer sound value for members, providing choice between packages of exceptional quality as well as the potential for savings. They make good financial sense for the BDA, which exists for and is owned by its members so all income is used to enhance services and strengthen our collective voice, which is for everyone's benefit."
All members will receive information and guidance about the new membership scheme from 18 March.