Despite the fact that few rheumatologists characterize themselves as “pain physicians,” pain is such an important and cross-cutting aspect of our clinical care that the Board of Directors has approved an initiative for all ACR committees to begin incorporating pain issues into their priorities for the upcoming year. This ACR-wide focus on pain initiatives will support rheumatology providers in offering optimized care for patients with painful rheumatic diseases.
Changes in our professional lives are occurring rapidly. The ACR is aware of these changes and plans to respond in an expeditious and effective manner. I hope that each of you will take an active role in the ACR during my 2010–2011 presidential year. With your participation and suggestions, we will all advance rheumatology.
Dr. Borenstein is clinical professor of medicine in the division of rheumatology at George Washington University Medical Center, in Washington, D.C., and in private practice at Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates there. Contact him via e-mail at [email protected].