An increasing number of busy healthcare professionals are taking advantage of the ARHP Rheumatology Audioconference Series—a no-travel educational offering approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Since 2004 the Rheumatology Audioconference Series has provided an alternative mode of education for rheumatology health professionals.
Jane Brandenstein, PT, of the Center for Rehab Services in Freedom, Pa., has subscribed to the Rheumatology Audioconference Series from the beginning. “I think it is great for our clinic,” she says. “I sign up as a member and sometimes we have six others listening in to the series. It’s a great way for all staff and students to increase their rheumatology knowledge.”
The series consists of six one-hour presentations that cover varying topics of interest to those working in the field of rheumatology. Each monthly audioconference is held between noon and 1 P.M. EST. Participants receive copies of each presenter’s PowerPoint slides in advance, and can follow along as the presenter speaks. Each audioconference allows listeners to interact with the speaker and other healthcare professionals.
Those unable to take time away from their busy midday schedules or with time-zone conflicts can purchase a recording of the audioconference.
ARHP President Kim Kimpton, PT, listened to the audioconference on non-invasive total hip replacements and found it very convenient to review at her leisure. “As a busy PT, my opportunity to view actual patient surgery is limited,” says Kimpton. “The audioconference allowed me to examine the differences in surgical approaches between the newer, non-invasive approach and the traditional approach to total hip replacement—without even leaving my den. Now I can accurately answer patients’ questions about this procedure.”
The 2008 Rheumatology Audioconference Series offers this informative line-up of topics:
- Promoting Safety among the Elderly—Self Confidence and Function: On January 15, Patricia Quigley, PhD, MPH, will discuss the effects of falls on outcomes—such as function, fear, and mortality—and will review evidence-based practice recommendations to promote safety among the elderly.
- The Heart “Ache” of Lupus: On February 12, Susan Manzi, MD, MPH, will describe the burden of cardiovascular disease in lupus and will discuss the management strategies available for this patient population.
- Hypermobility Syndromes—The True Collagen Disorders: On March 18, Eric Gall, MD, will discuss the need for a multidisciplinary approach to management of these syndromes. Dr. Gall will present a trip from the bench to the bedside, where science helps understand a disease process and its management.
- The Pain Puzzle: On April 17, Mike Rapoff, PhD, will highlight the multiple elements involved in chronic pain syndromes and the need to address these in the treatment plan.
- Non-surgical Management of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: On May 21, Maura Iversen, PT, DPT, SD, MPH, will discuss the evidence supporting effective exercise treatment for the non-surgical patient and the benefits of certain interventions in this patient population.
- The Impact of Public Health on Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases: On June 11, Teresa Brady, PhD, will provide a greater understanding of a public health approach and how this approach is distinct from, but complementary to, a clinical approach. Dr. Brady will teach participants how to identify the core public health messages in the area of arthritis.
The fee for one audioconference or for CD recording of the conference is $45 for ARHP members and $60 for nonmembers.
To learn more about the Rheumatology Audioconference Series (including how to receive a discounted rate on the purchase of multiple presentations) or to register, visit www.rheumatology.org/arhp. For questions, contact Sharon Ross at [email protected].