Looking back over the long history of our relationship, the leaders of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) and the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR) recognize that there have been many examples of positive collaboration, but also some missed opportunities to work together for the good of the specialty.
Although we are two separate organizations with distinct missions, the AAPM&R and ABPMR commit to moving forward together in a shared vision for the future of PM&R. To this end, a new Joint Task Force has been formed to establish that vision and work towards implementing it. The two organizations will engage as true partners in this work, identifying the strengths and opportunities for the specialty in education, training, research, advocacy, and ongoing quality improvement.
We invite our shared constituency to join us in this work to strengthen the specialty. Please talk with us or send your suggestions to our offices, or volunteer for either or both organizations to be more directly involved in future initiatives.
Kathleen Bell, MD
AAPM&R Board of Governors, 2014-2015 President
Karen J. Kowalske, MD
ABPMR Board of Directors, Chair