It is a new year and now is the time to start planning to attend state rheumatology society meetings. State rheumatology society meetings provide continuing medical education (CME), networking and collaboration opportunities, contributing significantly to the advancement of rheumatology care. These meetings are a vital part of the rheumatology community, and the ACR is proud to support their growth and development. The ACR not only sends staff to attend most of these meetings but can also provide experts and speakers at no cost to the state society. If you have never been to a state rheumatology society meeting, here are a few reasons that you should consider attending.
CME & Skill Enhancement
State meetings offer a unique opportunity for rheumatology professionals to stay abreast of the latest developments in the specialty. From emerging treatment modalities to advancements in diagnostic tools, these gatherings provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving rheumatology landscape. By attending lectures, workshops and discussions, practitioners can enhance their knowledge and skills, ensuring they deliver the best possible care to their patients.
Networking & Collaboration
Building a professional network is crucial for any healthcare practitioner, and state rheumatology society meetings serve as a perfect platform for fostering connections. These events bring together rheumatologists, researchers, nurses and other healthcare professionals, creating an environment conducive to building relationships and partnerships. The free-flowing exchange of ideas can lead to exciting new concepts and opportunities for your practice and better care for your patients.
Keeping Abreast of Regulatory Changes
The field of healthcare is dynamic, and regulatory changes can have a profound impact on the practice of rheumatology. State society meetings often feature sessions dedicated to discussing and understanding these changes, ensuring that practitioners are well-informed and compliant with the latest regulations. Staying updated on regulatory matters is essential to running a successful practice.
Advocacy for Rheumatology
State society meetings play a pivotal role in promoting advocacy for the policy issues important to rheumatology. Whether it is providing an update on the latest healthcare policies, addressing insurance challenges or providing education on how to be an effective advocate, these gatherings empower professionals to collectively advocate for the needs of both patients and practitioners. By learning how to participate in advocacy efforts, attendees learn how they can contribute to the growth and recognition of rheumatology as a vital medical specialty.
Professional Development & Leadership Opportunities
Active participation in your state rheumatology society can open doors to various leadership opportunities within the field. Serving on committees, organizing events and contributing to the society’s initiatives provide professionals with a platform to demonstrate leadership skills. This not only benefits the individual practitioner but also contributes to the overall growth and development of the rheumatology community.
Opportunities in 2024
Attending state rheumatology society meetings is not just a professional obligation; it is a commitment to the continuous improvement of rheumatology care. These gatherings serve as a nexus for education, networking, advocacy and leadership development, fostering a community dedicated to advancing the field of rheumatology. If you are interested in attending a rheumatology state society meeting near you, here is a list of upcoming events for you to put on your calendar in 2024.
| Dates | Society | Location |
|
February 23–24
|
Rheumatology Association of Iowa | The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, Cedar Rapids, Iowa |
| Tennessee Rheumatology Society | Franklin Marriott Cool Springs, Franklin, Tenn. | |
| February 23–25 | State of Texas Association of Rheumatologists | Marriott Marquis, Houston, Texas |
|
March 8–9
|
Wisconsin Rheumatology Association | The American Club Resort, Kohler, Wis. |
|
March 9–10
|
North Carolina Rheumatology Association | The Westin Charlotte, Charlotte, N.C. |
| March 22–24 | Alaska Rheumatology Alliance | Alyeska Resort, Alaska |
|
April 12–13
|
Arkansas Rheumatology Association | Wyndham Riverfront Little Rock, North Little Rock, Ark. |
|
April 26–27
|
Rheumatology Association of Nevada | Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas, Nev. |
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April 26–28
|
South Carolina Rheumatism Society | Hyatt Place Hotel, Charleston, S.C. |
|
May 17–18
|
New York State Rheumatology Society | InterContinental New York Times Square, New York, N.Y. |
|
May 18–-19
|
California Rheumatology Alliance | Marriott Marquis, San Francisco, Calif. |
|
May 31–June 2
|
Arizona United Rheumatology Alliance | Enchantment Resort, Sedona, Ariz. |
| Georgia Society of Rheumatology | Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. | |
|
June 21–23
|
Michigan Rheumatism Society | Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Mich. |
|
July 12–14
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Florida Society of Rheumatology | Loews Sapphire Falls Universal, Orlando, Fla. |
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August 2–4
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West Virginia State Rheumatology Society | Stonewall Resort, Roanoke, W. Va. |
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August 23–24
|
Ohio Association of Rheumatology | Nationwide Hotel and Convention Center, Lewis Center, Ohio |
|
September 13
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Rheumatology Society of New Mexico | Hyatt Regency Tamaya, Santa Ana Pueblo, N. Mex. |
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September 13–15
|
Washington Rheumatology Alliance | Sleeping Lady Resort, Leavenworth, Wash. |
| September 27–29 | New York State Rheumatology Society | The Courtyard by Marriott, Saratoga Springs, N.Y. |
| Virginia Society of Rheumatology | Hilton McLean Tysons Corner, McLean, Va. | |
|
October 5
|
Mississippi Arthritis and Rheumatism Society | Sheraton Flowood the Refuge Hotel and Conference Center, Flowood, Miss. |
|
December 6–8
|
Rheumatology Alliance of Louisiana | The Westin New Orleans Canal Place, New Orleans, La. |
