Exclusive: ACR Convergence 2024| Focus Rheums

An official publication of the ACR and the ARP serving rheumatologists and rheumatology professionals

ACR Comments on 2025 Physician Fee Schedule

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The ACR’s response to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services addresses the likely harm of the proposed conversion factor on the solvency and stability of rheumatology practices. The comments also include recommendations on complex drug administration coding, inflation-adjusted drug rebates and extending telehealth flexibilities.

Empowered Patients

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This year’s theme for Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month focuses on self-management, aiming to provide tools and tips to empower patients, boost awareness about the importance of self-management and, ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

Glucocorticoids Increase Infections, Mortality

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Figueroa-Parra et al. set out to evaluate the effect of glucocorticoid regimens on renal response, infections and mortality rates among patients with lupus nephritis (LN). The researchers analyzed the control arms of randomized clinical trials and found a higher exposure to glucocorticoids during the initial treatment of LN was associated with better renal outcomes, at the cost of increased infections and mortality.

Calling Young Rheumatologist Leaders

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The ACR is seeking a representative to the Young Physician Section of the AMA House of Delegates who will join the ACR’s delegation at future HOD meetings and advance issues important to rheumatology.