The AMA, like most bureaucracies, is already bogged down in paperwork. Taking a membership application via phone, then waiting for the properly signed forms to be signed and returned, would only add to the confusion up in Muncie. It's not th ecost. They can't keep things straight up there now. Phone applications would only add to the mess.
There is no confusion involved. In any company I've owned or worked with, it's very simple. The exact same form which is filled out online, is done by someone behind a computer in Muncie. The data is transferred to the same server where the web form is pushed through too, without channeling the data through the web.
Basically there is no paperwork needed at all, unless something has to be mailed, or faxed in with signature, which will include just a routing number which will be matched with the form that will filled into the system by the clerk in Muncie to push the document as paid and signed for.
If the customer can sign digitally they will be given a transaction number and web link on the phone. They read the document, put in their transaction number and signature, this will tell the system that it's complete. When that is complete, the customer will get their card. This is all VERY basic database programming stuff. Obviously they all ready have it setup with the web form, just a couple, simple integration pieces to add.
So now we are back to cost. What will the physical cost be for the clerk(s) to fill out the form by hand. A good clerk can push about 15+ orders per hour which includes answering the basic questions.
Simplicity is the spice of life too.