PATHWAY TO FELLOWSHIP
Traditional Pathway: Fellowship by Invitation
Historically, fellowship in the ICD has been by invitation only, extended to the top 4% of dental professionals. This exclusive recognition is based on exemplary contributions to the field and is reserved for those who demonstrate leadership, exceptional professional competence, and a commitment to humanitarian efforts.
Key Criteria:
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Professional Excellence: Fellows must demonstrate outstanding clinical and academic achievements.
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Service: Contributions to dentistry, both locally and globally, are evaluated.
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Leadership: Fellows often serve in leadership roles within their communities and dental associations.
Expanded Pathways
to Fellowship
Recognizing the evolving landscape of dentistry, ICD Section XV offers additional pathways to fellowship beyond invitation, ensuring broader access to this esteemed honor.
1. Fellowship by Serving ICD Section XV
This pathway emphasizes active contribution to the ICD through service, leadership, and humanitarian efforts. Fellows can achieve this status by serving in various capacities such as:
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Leadership Roles: Holding positions within committees or organizing conferences.
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Humanitarian Initiatives: Participating in community engagement and global oral health missions.
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Mentorship: Guiding younger professionals and contributing to the growth of dentistry within the ICD.
2. Fellowship by Examination
A structured, merit-based pathway, the examination route allows professionals to demonstrate their knowledge and commitment through a rigorous two-step process:
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Step 1: International Membership in ICD (IMICD): Candidates must pass a written exam and clinical assessment covering key areas of general dentistry.
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Step 2: International Fellowship in ICD (IFICD): Candidates submit cases and undergo oral examinations. Specialists may bypass the IMICD step.
The examination pathway is open to dental professionals committed to achieving fellowship through merit and clinical excellence. The next exam will be held during the ICD Conference on April 18, 2025, in Penang.
3. Fellowship by Invitation (Continued)
Despite the introduction of new pathways, the traditional invitation-based process remains a prestigious honor, recognizing those who have made significant contributions to academia, public service, private practice, and military dentistry.
Fellowship to Master Fellowship
Once a Fellow, there is an opportunity to progress to Master Fellowship, awarded after 15 years of service and significant contributions. Master Fellows are recognized for their dedication to the ICD, leadership roles, and contributions to humanitarian efforts.
Benefits of ICD Fellowship
Becoming an ICD Fellow offers numerous benefits:
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Professional Recognition: Fellows can use the title F.I.C.D. after their name and receive a Fellowship Certificate, Key, and Pin.
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Leadership Opportunities: Fellows can take on leadership roles within the ICD and mentor the next generation of dentists.
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Access to Resources: ICD Fellows have access to exclusive publications, including the GLOBE and bi-annual newsletters.
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Service Opportunities: Fellows are encouraged to contribute to humanitarian projects and global dental initiatives through the ICD.
Fellowship in the ICD is not just an honor but a lifelong commitment to the advancement of the profession and the promotion of oral health worldwide. Whether by invitation, service, or examination, every pathway to fellowship is a testament to a dentist's dedication to excellence and humanity.