Omega Beta Iota: Reviews and Requirements. Is it worth it?
What is the history of Omega Beta Iota?
Omega Beta Iota, the National Osteopathic Political Advocacy Honor Society, was founded in 2007 to emphasize the importance of the work medical students do for our political system. Induction into OBI is an honorary recognition for politically active medical students and professional mentors who demonstrate excellence in healthcare politics.
What are the requirements to be in Omega Beta Iota?
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Membership within Omega Beta Iota is based strictly on an applicant successfully demonstrating their osteopathic political experience through the completion of several requirements.
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An applicant must meet all requirements listed in category 1 and at least one requirement in both category 2 and category 3.
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The more involved an applicant is, the greater their chances are of being inducted. Ultimately, it is up to the discretion of the National Board if an individual meets the criteria for induction into Omega Beta Iota.
Category 1
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Membership in the American Osteopathic Association (AOA).
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Successful completion of a minimum of one semester of medical school.
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Submission of a letter of recommendation from a politically involved individual who can attest to the applicant’s political involvement.
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Submission of a completed, official ΩBI application prior to the determined deadline.
Category 2
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Membership in the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA).
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Membership in your respective State Osteopathic Medical Association (i.e. if the applicant goes to school in Florida, the applicant should be a member of FOMA).
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Osteopathic Political Action Committee (OPAC) Student Chairman’s Club Membership.
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Leadership role in Student Government Association or National Osteopathic Association (e.g. COSGP) and/or on campus.
Category 3
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Past participant of DO Day on Capitol Hill, COM Day on Capitol Hill, or applicant’s respective state DO Day.
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Participation in local/state/national political campaigns.
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Participation in American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) “Ed to Med” national grassroots advocacy campaign as a Student Ambassador.
What are the key benefits of being a member of Omega Beta Iota?
In coordination with traditional advocacy efforts led by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), the Student Osteopathic Association (SOMA), and other important organizations, OBI ensures that your concerns and interests are heard by lawmakers at the federal level.
Based on the information, here is our review:
Our first observation was: that the society was founded in 2007, making it a newer society compared to most and very relevant in today’s modern world.
Our second observation was: that student grassroots advocacy is a powerful component in strengthening the voice of the osteopathic community on critical health policy issues.
Our third observation was: that participation in political campaigns makes one eligible for Category 3 membership, meaning experience is just as valued as education in this field.
