Academy Transformation / PASSOR Integration
PASSOR leaders are committed to supporting the efforts of
the Academy to effectively respond to the major change in physiatric practice
patterns toward outpatient musculoskeletal medicine that has occurred over the
past decade and which is expected to continue into the foreseeable future. To do
so the structure of AAPM&R needs to be modified so as to remove the distinction
between PASSOR and AAPM&R; specifically, to promote the reintegration of the
structure and function of PASSOR into the Academy.
Learn more about Academy Transformation / PASSOR
Integration
Who is involved in leading the transformation of the Academy?
In addition to supporting the reintegration of the
structure and function of PASSOR into the Academy, the Academy leadership has
recognized the need for enhanced constituency representation. The leadership
requested assistance from the PASSOR Steering Committee, initially charged to
address PASSOR integration, to consider how the Academy structure could be
modified to respond to an evolving membership while also advancing the interests
and objectives of all its members. This committee has evolved to a broader
workgroup to include additional constituency representation from the SIG
committee, as well representatives from the pediatric rehabilitation and
neurorehabilitation special interest groups. The Academy Membership Workgroup is
currently engaged in discussing, debating, and designing potential models for
membership constituency representation and will present recommendations to the
AAPM&R Membership Committee and Board for consideration and approval later this
year.
How will the new Academy look and feel?
In building a new model, there are some key principles
that PASSOR and Academy leaders are operating under, to help assure
“transformation” of AAPM&R occurs and that members are able to participate in
active constituent communities that:
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Build connections (in person and online)
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Tap their collective expertise (help build content)
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Increase collaboration and coordination
Is PASSOR the same today as it was when I joined?
PASSOR will continue in its present form for the next year
and possibly longer, at which point it may evolve into something different. It
is important to keep in mind that this is an evolutionary process … not a
revolutionary one. In the meantime, volunteer leaders will continue to be
elected and appointed within PASSOR and will have a dual responsibility to
assist with PASSOR activities while also participating in broader discussions
regarding how AAPM&R can best serve the specialty including musculoskeletal
physiatrists.
How does the PASSOR leadership view integration and transformation?
PASSOR leaders support the transformation of the Academy
into a more powerful, influential, unified specialty. Today, they are being
tapped to help design, lead and innovate the Academy once again – this time the
effort is about unification and expansion of a shared vision for the specialty
Why should I support this initiative?
Unification of the specialty is a good thing. It enables
members to embrace the value, breadth and uniqueness of PM&R and helps bring
people together. In many ways, this is a return to the roots of functioning as a
team (what physiatrists do in practice every day). One key outcome will be
increased musculoskeletal resources within the Academy, reducing the likelihood
that physiatrists will have to go elsewhere to have these needs met.
Will I be informed and included in the process of integration and
transformation?
PASSOR leaders are committed to the organization and its
members. The PASSOR board members pledge to listen to any and all
comments/questions/concerns regarding AAPM&R transformation and PASSOR
integration. The board will provide up-to-date information as it becomes
available regarding plans and activities relating to integration and will offer
opportunities for input along the way.
How can I share my comments regarding PASSOR Integration and Academy
Transformation?
Your comments and support will help ensure continued
progress and improved collaboration. The PASSOR Board of Governors
look forward to your involvement in PASSOR and in whatever new entity emerges
from this Academy wide initiative.
