ARP Collaborates with EULAR’s Health Professionals in Rheumatology

The Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP) and European League Against Rheumatism Health Professionals in Rheuma­tology (EULAR HPR) are, to a great extent, working toward addressing the same long-term goals and challenges. Despite differences in healthcare services, culture, organization and economical aspects across the Atlantic Ocean, we can help each other overcome these challenges and learn from each other.

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We have been engaged in common, shared recommendation projects, which are very rewarding. Our collaborations have resulted in common themes at the ACR/ARP and EULAR conferences. Over the past couple of years, we have collaborated on important hot session topics for health professionals in rheumatology, shedding light on these topics from both American and European perspectives.

In 2018, we each hosted a session at our respective annual meetings on sustainable healthcare, and this year we partner again by collaborating on a new joint session, Exercise—The Wonder Drug. There is little doubt that exercise and physical activity are beneficial for health, but new information on how to optimize and personalize exercise for people with rheumatic diseases warrants more focus on how to actually implement exercise plans with patients.

As rheumatology health professionals, we try to support people with rheumatic diseases and reduce their burden as efficiently as possible; however, we are challenged by the increasing prevalence of the condition. In America and Europe, we aim for a holistic approach and are preoccupied by the whole person—integrating physical and mental health, early treatment, patient education, patient involvement and participation, and focusing on self-efficacy, well-being and health.

The ARP and EULAR HPR chairs can help each other find new ways to accomplish our goals. Our two organizations have different strengths, but together we can improve patient care.