The catalyst of those rapid advancements has been research, which remains of fundamental importance to every rheumatologist regardless of their individual career path. I hope to highlight how the ACR is there to support clinical, translational and basic scientists in the conduct of their research, presentation of their findings at ACR Convergence, and publication through our journals. Directly linked with this is the critical work being done by our amazing Rheumatology Research Foundation in funding research and training the next generation of clinicians and investigators.
Finally, I hope to enhance connections between the College and its members in being a rheumatology community. It is my goal over the next year that every fellow and member gains a greater understanding of the ACR as their organization and sees their objectives and priorities reflected through the ACR’s activities and commitment to our mission.
TR: What do you see as the biggest obstacles for rheumatologists and rheumatology in the coming year, as well as in the long term, and how will the ACR approach them?
Dr. Langford: The need for rheumatologic care will continue to increase, with recent projections showing those needs will outpace the current workforce. In addition to numbers, there are also geographic disparities, where patients may have to travel hours to see an adult or pediatric rheumatologist. We also recognize the numerous challenges being faced by practicing clinicians in terms of barriers to medication access, prior authorizations, and reimbursement. All of these are challenges that the ACR and the ARP are actively working to address. We want not only to address workforce issues, particularly in underserved locations, but also to find, develop and communicate ways to assist practices in their goals of being able to provide efficient and effective patient care.
TR: With multifaceted challenges like those, how do you view the future of rheumatology overall?
Dr. Langford: I am very optimistic for the future. Rheumatology remains one of the most exciting medical specialties, particularly with the many advances we have seen—and will continue to see—that beneficially impact our patients. It is tremendously rewarding to be part of the dynamic specialty that is rheumatology, and I have great enthusiasm for the future of the field and confidence in the ACR in moving us forward.
TR: Now, for the toughest question of all, what is something that ACR/ARP members may not know about you, but should or might like to?
