As the Academy works to advance PM&R and position the specialty to thrive in the future, our volunteer leaders are working to execute the strategic plans supporting our PM&R BOLD practice areas. Within Cancer Rehabilitation Medicine (CRM), this included defining this growing field and exploring recognition pathways. First, our CRM workgroup through PM&R BOLD worked to define and document the practice area’s core services. Then partnering with the Medical Education Committee and Graduate Medical Education Committee, the CRM workgroup went on to define the core body of specialized knowledge that distinguish cancer rehabilitation. With these critical definition projects complete, AAPM&R’s Board of Governors sought the input of our members to address recognition needs. Our efforts have included three member town halls and survey input from department chairs and current cancer rehabilitation fellowship directors.
Based on member input and our goals to achieve the specialty vision, the AAPM&R Board of Governors confirmed the recommendation for Cancer Rehabilitation subspecialty recognition. To advocate for our members in this process, we sent a letter to the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR) last week recommending that cancer rehabilitation be recognized and designated as a formal subspecialty. We will keep all members updated as we continue to work to define, defend and promote PM&R.