This organization was first chartered in 1949 as the Ohio Trudeau Society. In 1960, a new name was adopted, the Ohio Thoracic Society, in order to parallel actions taken at the national level and to be more descriptive of the range of specialties and disciplines represented in its membership and areas of interest. From 19 charter members in its initial year, the OTS has grown to over 3000 professionals currently from across the state of Ohio.

Membership    Return
Active - Open to individuals with an M.D., D.O., Ph.D., or equivalent degree, and to non-doctoral applicants who have made a distinct contribution to lung health in research, teaching, or clinical practice.  Nurses, respiratory therapists, and other professionals may apply if they have a Master's degree and at least three years of experience in a pulmonary specialty.  Active Members have full membership privileges.

Associate - open to doctoral candidates, medical students, residents, interns, and fellows during their period of training.  Nurses, respiratory therapists, and other professionals without a graduate degree may become a member in the category provided they have a minimum of three years of professional experience in a pulmonary specialty.  Associate Members have all privileges except voting at business meetings and holding office.

Senior -  Open to those who have reached the age of 65 or who have retired early due to exceptional circumstances.  Senior Members have the same privileges as the membership category to which they previously belonged; dues are waived.