4 Lessons for Young Rheumatologists
As we were wrapping up the interview, I asked him what advice he wants to give to young rheumatologists. He talked about four things.
- Take time off for vacation.
- Treat your employees/staff well.
- Be a mentor; you learn by teaching.
- Get involved with the ACR, because who knows, you may be president someday.
Finally, I asked how he sees the future of rheumatology. “Magnificent! Look at all we have to offer other specialties—advances we made are also advancing other fields. We have gone from aspirin to biologics. We don’t see people with horribly crippled joints anymore,” Dr. Kaplan said with a big smile on his face.
With that, my journey through time came to an end, and I am back to the future. I am inspired by Dr. Kaplan’s story and hope that all of us who carry the torch forward for rheumatology find ways to make a difference, not just for our patients but for each other.
Aileen Lorenzo Pangan, MD, is a rheumatologist and executive medical director, immunology development at AbbVie. She also serves on the Development Advisory Council of the Rheumatology Research Foundation.