The American Academy Of Physical Medicine And Rehabilitation
The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) is a professional medical society that represents more than 9,000 physicians who are specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). AAPM&R was founded in 1938 and is based in Rosemont, Illinois. The organization has a mission to advance the specialty of PM&R and improve the health of people with disabilities through advocacy, education, and research.
What is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation?
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, also known as PM&R, is a branch of medicine that focuses on restoring the functional ability of people with disabilities or impairments. PM&R specialists are medical doctors who use a patient-centered approach to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the muscles, bones, joints, and nervous system. They work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, medication, and other interventions to help patients regain function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
Membership and Benefits
AAPM&R offers several categories of membership, including physician, resident, international, and allied health professional memberships. Members have access to a variety of benefits, including:
- Networking opportunities with other PM&R professionals
- Education and training resources, including webinars, conferences, and online courses
- Leadership and volunteer opportunities within the organization
- Advocacy support for issues affecting the PM&R community
- Access to research and publications in the field
Advocacy and Public Policy
AAPM&R is committed to advocating for policies that improve access to high-quality PM&R care for people with disabilities. The organization works with policymakers at the federal and state levels to promote policies that support research funding, workforce development, and access to care. AAPM&R also provides resources to help members become effective advocates for their patients and their profession.
Education and Research
AAPM&R is dedicated to advancing the science and practice of PM&R through education and research. The organization offers a variety of educational opportunities for PM&R professionals at all stages of their careers, including webinars, conferences, and online courses. AAPM&R also supports research in the field through grants, awards, and other funding opportunities.
Conclusion
The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is a professional medical society that represents more than 9,000 PM&R specialists in the United States. The organization is dedicated to advancing the specialty of PM&R and improving the health of people with disabilities through advocacy, education, and research. Members of AAPM&R have access to a variety of benefits, including networking opportunities, education and training resources, and advocacy support. AAPM&R is also committed to promoting policies that support access to high-quality PM&R care and to advancing the science and practice of PM&R through research.