New Role-Based Membership Model
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is the membership model changing?
The change to the membership structure was carefully designed as part of a broader strategic planning effort focused on supporting high-quality education, expanding access to certification pathways, strengthening global professional connections, and ensuring ISCD can continue advancing standards in musculoskeletal health assessment.
What is changing?
We are moving from a service-based membership model to a role-based membership model. The new model is designed to provide full member benefits across all categories while aligning dues with professional role and career stage.
The new early-career rate is intended to remove barriers to participation and to invite students, residents, fellows, and emerging professionals to join ISCD earlier in their professional journey. ISCD membership offers educational resources, professional connections, and certification pathways that are most valuable when accessed early.
Why did the organization decide to make this change?
The new model:
- Simplifies membership selection and renewal.
- Creates clearer pathways for professional engagement.
- Better reflects the evolving roles within the musculoskeletal health community.
- Enhances the member experience by aligning benefits and opportunities with professional needs.
- Supports long-term growth and sustainability of the organization.
When will the new membership model take effect?
The new membership structure will take effect on January 1, 2027. Members renewing for 2027 will select their membership category under the new model.
What are the new membership categories?
The new membership categories are:
- Clinician/Researcher/Radiologist
- Technologist
- Resident/Student/Fellow/Retired
How do I know which category is right for me?
Choose the category that best reflects your primary professional role:
- Technologist
For members whose primary professional role involves the acquisition, analysis, quality assurance, operation, or support of imaging, densitometry, and musculoskeletal assessment services. Members in this category generally have allied health, bachelor’s, or master’s-level training. They do not prescribe medications to patients and generally do not have independent authority to generate medical orders.
- Clinician / Researcher / Radiologist
For members whose primary professional role involves clinical practice, interpretation, research, teaching, or leadership related to skeletal health, osteoporosis, metabolic bone disease, imaging, densitometry, or musculoskeletal assessment. Members in this category generally hold an advanced degree or professional credential, such as MD, DO, APRN, NP, PA, or PhD. Most are authorized to prescribe medications to patients and generate medical orders, depending on their professional licensure and scope of practice. - Retired / Resident / Student / Fellow
For members who are retired from active professional practice, or who are residents, students, fellows, or other trainees enrolled in a recognized educational or professional training program related to skeletal health, imaging, densitometry, musculoskeletal assessment, or a relevant health profession.
If you are unsure, our membership team will be available to assist you.
Will my member benefits change?
The full suite of member benefits will remain available to all members. The transition is intended to simplify membership categories, not reduce member value. Members will continue to receive access to the ISCD DXA Atlas, Ask an Expert platform, The Journal of Clinical Densitometry, educational resources and more. Depending on your previous member type, your benefits may increase. No member will lose any benefits.
Will my membership dues change?
Membership dues for 2027 are:
- Clinician/Researcher: $400
- Technologist: $195
- Resident/Student/Fellow/Retired: $99
Why are dues different between categories?
Dues are structured to reflect career stage, professional role, and the organization’s commitment to maintaining accessible membership options for trainees, retirees, and allied professionals.
Will there still be low-income discounts for international members?
Yes, those members who live in countries that are designated as low-income or lower-middle income by the World Bank will be eligible for discounts on membership.
Do I need to take any action right now?
No immediate action is required. Additional information and renewal instructions will be provided before the 2027 membership year begins.
What happens when I renew my membership?
During the renewal process, you will be asked to select the membership category that best aligns with your professional role. The process will be clearly explained, and support will be available if needed.
Will my membership history or status be affected?
No. Your membership history, years of membership, and eligibility for member programs and recognition will remain intact.
Will there be changes to the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) Program?
The maintenance of certification program will still be an option for those professionals certified with ISCD. The fees as of January 1, 2027 will be:
- CBDT Maintenance of Certification (MOC): $150
- CCD Maintenance of Certification (MOC): $150
The maintenance of certification is included in all memberships for those who are certified.
Who can I contact with questions?
If you have questions about the new membership model or need assistance determining your membership category, please contact us at membership@iscd.org. We are happy to help guide you through the transition.