Just got my 2006 AMA membership renewal notice in the mail. Is it worthwhile to continue membership if you're going to be an orthopaedic surgeon?

When I look at ortho surgeon's CV's I often see that they are a member of various professional associations including the AMA (eg..."member since 1992"). Is this because it looks bad to shun membership in professional organizations like this? Or is it because of the benefits? Or do their institutions just pick up the tab for membership fees?

Anybody have any thoughts on this?