One of the highlights of the annual meeting for me was taking part in the Year in Review. Although the task of reviewing and synthesizing the clinical research literature from the previous year was daunting, I actually enjoyed the discretion and flexibility this format allowed. I am a strong believer in the value of the scientific approach to evidence synthesis, but I must admit that it felt surprisingly liberating to dispense with the rules of systematic reviews or meta-analyses and simply present my personal perspective of the literature. Over the years I have found it meaningful to learn about my colleagues’ personal perspectives on the scientific advances and more controversial issues of the past year through this session.
Thus, 2008 was a year where many innovative approaches were introduced into the annual meeting to make it easier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable to learn about the best new science in rheumatology. Even if you are athletically challenged (like I am), make plans to join us in Philadelphia for the 2009 annual meeting. The ACR is going back to the place where rheumatology began in order to celebrate 75 years of excellence in rheumatology. You will not want to miss the 75th Anniversary celebrations and the exciting new initiatives we have planned for next year. I look forward to seeing you all in Philadelphia.
Dr. Gabriel is president of the ACR. Contact her via e-mail at [email protected].