ACR Convergence 2024: Do Not Miss – Health Professionals in Rheumatology (HPR)

Rafael Prieto-Moreno, OT, PhD


Rafa is an occupational therapist and postdoctoral researcher carrying out his research at the University of Almeria, Spain. His research interests are focused on the development and implementation of digital health tools to improve the accessibility of care and the overall health status among different populations. Currently, he is working in the implementation of the Move-Up app, an mHealth intervention for young people with juvenile-onset rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases during the transition from paediatric to adult care.         Rafa is a member of the EULAR HPR Committee (Knowledge Translation).

Oral 15F04 | Friday, 15th November 2024 11:15
Basic & Clinical Research Conference: The Intersection of Cardiometabolic and Rheumatologic Diseases – Improving Inflammation Through Pharmacologic and Life-Style Interventions
Presenting author: B. J. Andonian (USA)
Title: Obesity and Related Metabolic Abnormalities and Rheumatic Diseases: The Role of Exercise and Weight Loss on Modulating Rheumatoid Arthritis Cardiometabolic Disease, Immune Function, and Disease Activity

This abstract highlights how to address obesity and metabolic abnormalities, factors that exacerbate rheumatic diseases and impact disease severity, immune function, and cardiometabolic health. Understanding how exercise and weight loss can reduce these effects offers a promising and accessible approach to improving rheumatic diseases management and patients’ overall health outcomes.
Poster 004 | Saturday, 16th November 2024 10:30
Patient Perspectives Poster
Presenting author: W. LaBar (USA)
Title: Involving Pediatric Patients in Their Own Care

This poster highlights the importance of engaging young patients actively in their healthcare, especially in complex conditions like SLE. Empowering paediatric patients to participate directly fosters self-advocacy, eases the transition to adult care, and strengthens patient-healthcare provider communication. Early involvement not only supports effective disease management but also enhances long-term health independence and quality of life.
Poster 0123 | Saturday, 16th November 2024 10:30
Antiphospholipid Syndrome Poster
Presenting author: C. Silva (Brazil)
Title: The Impact of Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity Level on Clinical Parameters and Quality of Life in Patients with Primary Antiphospholipid Syndrome (PAPS)

This study underscores the significance of promoting physical activity in patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) to improve health outcomes. Healthcare providers in Rheumatology should consider incorporating tailored exercise interventions into clinical practice, as higher levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity correlate with reduced disease damage and enhanced quality of life. Addressing sedentary behavior may ultimately lower morbidity and mortality risks associated with PAPS.
Oral 0867 | Saturday, 16th November 2024 15:00
Abstracts: RA – Diagnosis, Manifestations, & Outcomes II: Bad Blood (Serologic and Imaging Biomarkers)
Presenting author: M. Blanchard (Switzerland)
Title: Development of a Remote Patient Monitoring System Based on a Novel Digital Biomarker for Swelling in Rheumatoid Arthritis

The DETECTRA remote monitoring system represents a significant advancement in rheumatoid arthritis care by combining objective digital biomarkers with patient-reported outcomes. For healthcare providers in Rheumatology, the approach of monitoring through digital health tools addresses challenges related to provider shortages and remote patient management, enabling comprehensive assessments without in-person visits. Ultimately, implementing such systems can enhance patient engagement, improve disease monitoring, and support tailored treatment strategies.
Oral 17S43 | Sunday, 17th November 2024 15:40
When They Grow Up: Med-Peds Rheumatologists’ Insights into Caring for Adult Patients with JIA and Childhood-Onset SLE 
Presenting author: S. Bayefsky (USA)
Title: Lost in Transition: Practical Pearls for Partnering with Young Adults

This session will focus on effective strategies for engaging and collaborating with young adults navigating the transition from paediatric to adult rheumatology care. It will address key challenges faced by this population, provide practical tips for fostering communication, and highlight the importance of involving children, adolescentes and young adults in their healthcare decisions to enhance adherence and outcomes.
Poster 1950 | Monday, 18th November 2024 10:30
Health Services Research – ACR/ARP Poster III
Presenting author: D. White (Australia)
Title: Telehealth Physical Therapy Intervention to Increase Physical Activity in Adults with Knee OA: The Delaware PEAK Randomized Controlled Trial

This study highlights the importance of exercise in managing knee osteoarthritis, emphasising the role of physical therapy in prescribing activity. While adding step goals to a 12-week intervention did not significantly increase moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, it successfully improved pain and functional outcomes. Health care providers in Rheumatology should consider integrating comprehensive exercise strategies that prioritise patient engagement and tailored goals to enhance overall treatment efficacy.

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