Also, several ARHP members have been working on a health professional chapter for the online book, The Business Side of Rheumatology Practice, due to launch this month. The health professional chapter will be added to the original book in 2011, and will provide new rheumatologists information on the scope of practice, educational training, and other topics regarding nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, medical assistants, licensed practical nurses, and other clinicians.
Achievements in Planning
In 2009, the ARHP participated in the ACR’s strategic planning, which set the ACR’s goals and strategies for 2010–2012. This important process allowed the ACR to discuss and understand the future needs of its membership and to plan resources to meet those needs. We are currently proposing further integration with ACR committees to increase our voice and decrease redundancies of work throughout the ACR.
Looking Toward 2011
Given these achievements, we don’t plan on resting on our laurels in the coming year. The 2011 ARHP president, Nadine James, RN, MSN, PhD, will lead the team of ARHP volunteers and staff in moving forward on our online educational products and developing the 2011 ACR/ARHP Annual Scientific Meeting. The ARHP will also be looking into the creation of other face-to-face educational offerings and practice tools.
On a personal note, I want to express my appreciation for the opportunity to represent ARHP members as your 2010 president. It has been an awesome experience to work with so many talented health professionals who serve on our ARHP committees, subcommittees, and task forces. I have learned a great deal about the organization, the ACR, and about myself. I have solidified professional collaborations, deepened friendships, and had tremendous fun working with everyone. Most of all, I have gained a profound respect for the dedicated ARHP staff who provide the continuity for the work of our organization.
It has been a fabulous year!
Linda Ehrlich-Jones, PhD, RN, is president of ARHP and a clinical research scientist at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. Contact her at [email protected].
