PM&R Workforce Update: Analyzing Current Practice and Future Development in PM&R-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a presentation organized by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), key speakers Carolyn Kinney, Dr. Sunil Sabharwal, and Dr. David Pruitt discussed a detailed workforce study within the field. The study was derived from data collected through the longitudinal assessment participation (LAPM&R), which involves PM&R practitioners providing updates on their practice profiles and demographics.<br /><br />Dr. Sabharwal outlined various practice settings and trends within the specialty, noting that a substantial number of physiatrists are involved in outpatient care with areas like musculoskeletal and sports medicine being particularly prominent. He emphasized that most physiatrists hold multiple areas of practice focus, often reflecting subspecialty certifications. He highlighted potential future challenges concerning workforce and care provision for medically complex patients, pointing out the need for attention to changing demographics, such as the increasing number of female practitioners.<br /><br />Dr. Pruitt discussed how these insights are shaping revisions in PM&R residency training program requirements. Focusing on maintaining generalist training while allowing for competence-based education and flexibility, he emphasized the need for training to adapt to future practice changes by 2039-2040. Additionally, he discussed potential modifications in the procedural training requirements, especially concerning EMGs, and highlighted concerns over the decreasing focus on electrodiagnostic medicine among younger physiatrists.<br /><br />Dr. Kinney touched on the growing interest in subspecialties, particularly cancer rehabilitation, drawing from survey data of LAPM&R participants. While indicating interest, she acknowledged the mixed feelings among practitioners regarding the potential burden of additional subspecialization.<br /><br />Overall, the session highlighted the importance of aligning training and practice with evolving healthcare needs and the role of continuous assessment data in informing strategic decisions for the specialty's future.

Keywords

American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

workforce study

longitudinal assessment participation

practice settings

outpatient care

musculoskeletal medicine

sports medicine

subspecialty certifications

PM&R residency training

competence-based education

cancer rehabilitation

electrodiagnostic medicine