FAQ
1. What is AWIG?
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The Association of West Indian Gastroenterologists (AWIG) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of gastrointestinal care through education, collaboration, and professional development.
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2. What are the categories of AWIG membership? AWIG offers two categories of membership:
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Members: Typically medical specialists engaged in higher-level gastrointestinal care, either directly or indirectly.
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Associate Members: Includes GPs, Fellows, nurses, other healthcare professionals involved in gastroenterology practice, and academic colleagues such as PhDs, translational scientists, and researchers with a GI focus.
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3. What are the qualifications for becoming a Member?
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Eligibility: Must be a physician specialist dealing with higher-level gastrointestinal care.
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Meeting Attendance: Must attend two AWIG meetings before applying for membership, unless special consideration is given.
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Sponsorship: Must be sponsored by an Executive Member, past Executive, or an existing Current Dues Paid Member.
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4. What are the qualifications for becoming an Associate Member?
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Eligibility: GPs, Fellows, nurses, other healthcare professionals involved in gastroenterology practice, and academic colleagues with a GI focus.
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Meeting Attendance: Encouraged to attend AWIG meetings and events to become familiar with the organization.
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Sponsorship: Must be sponsored by an Executive Member, past Executive, or an existing Current Dues Paid Member.​​​​​​
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5. What is the annual membership fee?
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Members: $300 USD
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Associate Members: $200 USD
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6. When is the registration period?
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Opening Date: Annual registration opens on June 1.
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Payment Deadline: Membership dues must be paid by September 15.
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Validity Period: Membership is valid from the payment date until May 31 of the following year.
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7. What are the benefits of becoming a Member?
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Reduced rates for events and conferences​
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Access to early bird pricing for events and conferences
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Eligibility for exclusive conference swag
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Access to Continuing Medical Education (CME) opportunities
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Inclusion in the AWIG directory
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Access to a members-only directory for networking and collaboration
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Access to the members-only store for AWIG merchandise and resources
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Invitations to members-only events and networking opportunities
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Voting rights in AWIG elections and decisions
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8. What are the benefits of becoming an Associate Member?
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Reduced rates for events and conferences
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Access to early bird pricing for events and conferences
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Eligibility for exclusive conference swag
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Access to Continuing Medical Education (CME) opportunities
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Access to the members-only store for AWIG merchandise and resources
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9. What are the key differences between Members and Associate Members?
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Directory Access: Members have inclusion in the AWIG directory and access to a members-only directory for networking and collaboration. Associate Members do not.
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Events and Networking: Members receive invitations to exclusive members-only events and networking opportunities. Associate Members do not.
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Voting Rights: Members have voting rights in AWIG elections and decisions. Associate Members do not.
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10. What is the Code of Conduct for AWIG members? All members and associate members are expected to:
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Act with honesty, integrity, and respect towards fellow members, colleagues, and the broader medical community.
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Adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and professional standards governing their practice.
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Maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of patient information and sensitive organizational matters.
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Participate actively and constructively in AWIG activities, events, and initiatives.
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Avoid engaging in any conduct that may harm the reputation of AWIG or undermine its mission and objectives.
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Comply with AWIG's policies, guidelines, and decisions.
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​​​​​​​​​​11. How do I apply for AWIG membership?
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Step 1: Attend two AWIG meetings (unless special consideration is given).
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Step 2: Secure sponsorship from an Executive Member, past Executive, or an existing Current Dues Paid Member.
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Step 3: Complete the membership application form.
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Step 4: Pay the annual membership fee.
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Step 5: Receive confirmation and welcome email upon approval.
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12. Important Notice for Existing Members
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All existing members must complete the membership application and pay the annual fees to be considered active members and to continue receiving benefits. This is crucial for our record-keeping and ensuring you stay informed and engaged with AWIG.​​
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13. If I am an existing member, what do I have to do to become a Current Registered Member?
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Existing members must complete the membership application and pay the annual membership fee to be considered a Current Registered Member. This process ensures your information is up-to-date in our records and guarantees your continued access to all membership benefits. Complete your membership application here.
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14. Do I have to live, practice, or have any affiliation with the West Indies to become a member?
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No, you do not need to live, practice, or have any affiliation with the West Indies to become a member of AWIG. Membership is open to qualified professionals who meet the membership or associate membership criteria.​
For any questions or assistance with your application, please contact our membership support team at awigcaribbean@gmail.com.
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Complete your membership application here.