Healthcare is global, and rheumatology is no exception. In fact, the international implications of our activities have become a recurring theme at ACR Board of Directors discussions over the past year. Whether discussing education, research, or practice issues, ACR board members are consistently reminded of the importance of breaking down traditional silos (geographic and otherwise) and of rheumatologists joining forces not only across the country but around the world as we pursue solutions to our common challenges.
The ACR has always encouraged and nurtured a large international membership, and the ACR Annual Scientific Meeting has always been the gathering place for the international rheumatology community. In recent years, however, the ACR has visibly stepped up its international activities. Our newly established collaboration with the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) represents a landmark achievement for both organizations. This historic alliance has not only strengthened the links between the American and European rheumatology communities, but has also resulted in more robust classification and response criteria representing a broader perspective from a wide variety of rheumatologists across two continents. I believe the synergy between these two rheumatology world powers will continue to benefit rheumatologists and their patients around the world.