American Academy ofPhysical Medicine and RehabilitationPhysicians Adding Quality to Life®THANKS FOR BEING A MEMBER!Read to learn about AAPM&R’s impact throughout healthcare in 2025. Scan the code to view all your valuable benefits! Supporting you in your career and Helping to advance the specialtyAdvocating on your behalf We are your community
“As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded of the strength of our specialty and the dedication that defines the AAPM&R community. Physiatrists show up every day with skill, compassion and a deep commitment to restoring function and improving quality of life. That commitment has been the guiding force behind our work together this year. We supported one another in times of rapid change and increased pressures on the healthcare system. We collaborated across practice settings to advance clinical excellence. We stood firm in promoting the essential role of rehabilitation medicine in the broader healthcare landscape. And we continued to welcome new voices and emerging leaders into our community, ensuring that the future of PM&R remains strong and deeply rooted in our shared purpose. When I think about our shared successes and our future opportunities, what stands out most is the extraordinary power of our community. The heart of AAPM&R is not a program or an initiative — it is the people who choose to show up for one another every single day. We supported each other through uncertainty, celebrated breakthroughs together and created spaces where every physiatrist could feel seen, valued and connected. Across generations, practice settings and subspecialties, we strengthened the ties that make PM&R a family. That sense of unity and shared purpose is our greatest asset, and it is what will carry us forward. Together, we are shaping a future where our community is not only strong, but unstoppable. I wish you and yours continued success and happiness in the new year.”Scott Laker, MD, FAAPMR2025 AAPM&R PresidentYou Are the Story of PM&R Every physiatrist has a story. A moment that shaped how they practice. A patient who changed their perspective. A reason they chose PM&R and a reason they stay committed to it. When these stories come together, they show the full strength and humanity of our specialty. Your experience, your compassion, your expertise and your leadership are what define PM&R.This 2025 Membership Report reflects that shared story. It highlights how we learn together, support one another and elevate patient care. It celebrates progress, collaboration and the ongoing momentum of our Academy community. You are the story of PM&R. Together, we are AAPM&R.1 AAPMR.ORGGet involved with your Academy by contributing your time and expertise to support our mission, vision and core values. MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THESE UPCOMING DATES AND DEADLINES IN 2026: ^ Call for #AAPMR26 Session Proposals due: January 14^ Call for #AAPMR26 Research Abstracts and Case Studies: Opens January 27 and due March 23^ PHiT Ambassador Nominations due: March 31^ Medical Student Ambassador Nominations due: March 31^ Nominations for Elected Positions due: March 31^ Call for #AAPMR26 Late-Breaking Research and PhyzTalks Submissions: Opens late May and will close mid/late June^ PHiT Council Board Nominations due: June 17
“I am honored to serve a specialty defined by skill, compassion and unwavering commitment to patient recovery and quality of life. Physiatrists bring a unique and essential perspective to healthcare. We bridge disciplines, listen deeply and work collaboratively to help patients reclaim function and live with greater independence and dignity. Our strength lies in our diversity of expertise and in the shared foundation of rehabilitation principles that unite us. When we learn from one another and support one another, we elevate not only our own practices but the impact of the entire field. Our progress this year was not the work of any one individual. It was the result of thousands of physiatrists choosing connection over isolation, collaboration over competition and advocacy over silence. That is the power of our Academy and the strength of our specialty. I am committed to fostering collaboration, advancing professional excellence and championing the essential role of PM&R in every setting of care in 2026. Together, we will continue to strengthen our specialty, advocate for our patients and shape the future of rehabilitation medicine. We are all physiatrists.”John Cianca MD, FAAPMR Dr. Cianca dives deeper into his vision for 2026 2026 AAPM&R Presidentin an episode of the Advancing PM&R podcast. Listen now to hear what drives his leadership, the opportunities he sees for our specialty and how he hopes to strengthen connection and community across PM&R.2025 ANNUAL REPORT 2Connection and Community Growth across residency, fellowship, PHiT and medical student engagement; expanding early-career leadership pathways and strengthening peer networks.Professional Development and Practice Support including leadership learning, clinical education, practice management resources and new tools to help physiatrists thrive across care settings. Meaningful Advocacy Wins driven by more than 1,000 active member advocates, advancing fair payment, prior authorization reform, rehabilitation research and patient access. Research and Innovation featuring member-driven quality, guidance and research efforts that elevate clinical excellence across PM&R—from timely practice guidance and the Long COVID Compendium to the growing impact of research published in PM&R, the official scientific journal of AAPM&R.Unmatched Specialty Education and Learning Experiences across inperson, live virtual and mobile learning modalities, supporting continuous growth for physiatrists at every career stage. Physiatry’s Largest Gathering of the Year — The Annual Assemblywhere thousands of physiatrists, trainees and industry partners came together to learn, celebrate and reconnect as a community. 3-67-1011-1213-1415-1819-22Discover the Impact and Value the Academy Brings to Its Members
600+ AAPM&R members strong who volunteered with the Academy in 2025, driving strategic progress and shaping the future of the specialty. Join this unstoppable team of volunteers and make a real impact.57 Member Communities, including seven new that launched in 2025, offer opportunities for connection and shared engagement.New Member Communities in 2025:^ Aquatic Medicine^ Innovation & Artificial Intelligence^ Medical Educators^ Ohio Physiatrists^ Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation^ Shockwave Therapy for Musculoskeletal and Neurological Conditions^ Value-Based Spine Care32 Member May Community Sessions provided shared learning, innovation and connection. 31 Member Meet-ups and Business Meetings at the Annual Assembly. AAPM&R is the Professional Network for PhysiatryAAPM&R is the professional home for more than 10,000 physiatrists and trainees. Our community is built on shared purpose, collaboration, mentorship and the drive to advance function and quality of life for our patients. The Academy is led by its members and strengthened by volunteers who shape education, advocacy, research and the future of the specialty.Membership means having a place where your work is understood, your voice matters and your growth is supported. It means access to colleagues who teach, mentor and uplift one another and a network of peers who share challenges and celebrate progress across every stage of training and career.VOLUNTEERISM MEMBER COMMUNITIES “Volunteers are what make the Academy the living, breathing professional organization that we are and what fuels our energy and momentum. I have found that volunteering for the Academy gives me fulfilment that I wouldn’t get anywhere else. The Academy now allows for many different forms of volunteerism within its structure with opportunities ranging from small one-time projects to long-term commitments.” Ai Mukai, MD, FAAPMR Co-editor of The Physiatrist“Our Member Communities are spaces where everyone belongs. Whether you are new to the field or have devoted decades to practice, you will find colleagues who welcome you, listen to you and value the perspective you bring.” Danielle Powell, MD, FAAPMRChair, Access, Impact and Opportunity CommitteeScan to explore our current volunteer opportunities. 3 AAPMR.ORG
“When I think about what AAPM&R membership means to me, I think about the people. I joined the Academy to be part of something bigger than myself, but what I found was a community that has shaped both my career and my sense of purpose. The work we do as physiatrists is challenging and deeply meaningful, and it becomes even more powerful when we do it together.Some of the most important friendships and mentorships in my career have formed through the Academy. Working alongside colleagues from different subspecialties, practice settings and parts of the country has helped me see our specialty through a broader and more hopeful lens. Whether it is collaborating with the AMA delegation, participating in committee work, or advocating as part of the RUC advisory team, I have seen firsthand how our collective voice can move policy forward and improve care for the patients who depend on us.There have been moments when I have felt the strength of our community clearly. Sitting around a table, debating how best to protect access to rehabilitation care, I realized how many people in our Academy are working every day to make the future better. It makes me proud to be part of that effort. That sense of shared purpose has strengthened my connection to physiatry and has inspired me to continue giving back. When we work together, we create change. And together, we will do great things.”Carlo J. E. MilaniMD, MBA, FAAPMR2025 ANNUAL REPORT 4
Congratulations to our 2025 Innovators and Influencers Honorees who went above and beyond to make a significant impact within PM&R.^ Hassan A. Akinbiyi, MD, FAAPMR^ William A. Berrigan, MD, FAAPMR^ Priya Chandan, MD, PhD, MPH^ Cesar A. Colasante, MD, FAAPMR^ Alyssa Cole Mixon, DO, MBA, FAAPMR^ Berdale S. Colorado, DO, MPH, FAAPMR^ Daniel H. Daneshvar, MD, PhD, FAAPMR^ Brian Fricke, MD, FAAPMR^ Subha Hanif, MD, FAAPMR^ Jennifer L. Hankenson, MD, FAAPMR^ Ashlee M. Jaffe, MD, MEd, FAAPMR^ Oranicha Jumreornvong, MD^ Jonathan S. Kirschner, MD, RMSK, FAAPMR^ Erek W. Latzka, MD, FAAPMR^ Christopher W. Lewis, MD, FAAPMR^ Amy H. Ng, MD, MPH, FAAPMR ^ Rosa Pasculli, MD, MBA, FAAPMR^ Nicholas S. Race, MD, PhD, FAAPMR^ Sara N. Raiser, MD, FAAPMR^ John-Ross Rizzo, MD, FAAPMR^ Stephen M. Schaaf, MD, FAAPMR^ Allison N. Schroeder, MD, FAAPMR^ Alexander M. Senk, MD, FAAPMR^ Niña Carmela R. Tamayo, DO, MS, MPH, FAAPMR^ Hannah K. Uhlig-Reche, MD^ Aaron J. Yang, MD, FAAPMR^ Juliet C. Zakel, MD, FAAPMR^ Mariam Zakhary, DO, FAAPMRCELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENT WITHIN PM&R THE 2024-2026 CLASS OF AAPM&R’S DISTINGUISHED FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAMTM^ Arpit Arora, MD, FAAPMR^ Toure Barksdale, MD, FAAPMR^ Stephanie Ferimer, MD, FAAPMR^ Max Fitzgerald, MD, FAAPMR^ Kush Goyal, MD, FAAPMR ^ Juewon Khwarg, MD, MBA, FAAPMR^ Monika Patel, MD, FAAPMR^ Mary Russell, MD, MS, FAAPMR^ Cristina Sanders, DO, MS, FAAPMR^ Stephanie Tow, MD, FAAPMRScan to learn more about our Future Leaders program.Scan to read about our 2025 Innovators & Influencers program.5 AAPMR.ORG
16 PHiT Council Board members collaborated to strengthen education and early-career development across the training continuum. 180 PHiT Ambassadors representing 98Residency Programs255 Medical Student Ambassadors – new for 20256 Content Creator Workgroup members – new for 202579 Residents and new graduate virtual course participants AAPM&R has an awards program to recognize lifetime achievement, distinguished membership and public service, as well as pioneering physiatrists, clinicians and researchers who have made significant contributions to both the specialty and to people with disabilities. Congratulations to our 2025 award recipients who were honored at the Annual Assembly:^ Frank H. Krusen, MD Lifetime Achievement Award: Amy J. Houtrow, MD, PhD, MPH, FAAPMR^ Distinguished Member Award: Joe G. Gonzales, MD, CLCP, CPLCP, FAAPMR; John R. McGuire, MD, FAAPMR; Maya R. Therattil, MD, FAAPMR^ PM&R Distinguished Public Service, Health Equity and Advocacy Award: Michelle S. Gittler, MD, FAAPMR; Danielle K. Powell, MD, MSPH, FAAPMR; Chloe S. Slocum, MD, MPH, FAAPMR^ PASSOR Legacy Award and Lectureship: Kenneth R. Mautner, MD, FAAPMR^ Early PM&R Career Award: Matthew J. Cowling, DO, FAAPMR; Sara Raiser, MD, FAAPMR; Justin Weppner, DO, FAAPMR^ PM&R Awareness and Value Award: Surendra S. Barshikar, MD, MBA, FAAPMR; Sean R. Smith, MD, FAAPMR; Timothy K. Tiu, MD, CAQSM, FAAPMREARLY-CAREER ENGAGEMENT AWARD WINNERS Scan to learn more about our 2025 award winners.“I am incredibly honored to be the 2025 recipient of AAPM&R’s Frank H. Krusen Lifetime Achievement Award. While in the rehabilitation community, we often focus on achieving independence, in the disability community, we celebrate our interdependence. What an incredible pleasure it has been to be able to serve as a volunteer for the past 20 years! Thank you for your support of me and our specialty. How exceptionally lucky I am to be empowered to live out and spread my mission to improve the health, function and belonging of children with disabilities.”Amy HoutrowMD, PhD, MPH, FAAPMR, 2025 Frank H. Krusen, MD, Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient2025 ANNUAL REPORT 6
1,982 Unique users on PM&R Aspire PM&R Aspire is our exclusive career-exploration platform purpose-built to help PM&R professionals make better-informed career decisions. Scan to learn more. Supporting Growth at Every Stage of Your CareerAAPM&R supports physiatrists across every stage of their professional journey, from the first discovery of the specialty in medical school to established practice and leadership roles. Our goal is to help you grow with confidence, strengthen your clinical and professional skills and build a career that is both meaningful and sustainable.We also work to elevate the role of PM&R across healthcare. By engaging with primary care partners, health system leaders and national organizations, we help ensure that physiatrists are seen, understood and valued for the essential contributions we make to patient care and to the broader continuum of rehabilitation.When we learn together and stand together, our specialty moves forward.GROWING AND THRIVING TOGETHER “I’ve had great success using the PM&R Aspire job board with the Academy. I’ve utilized multiple different platforms when searching for a job after training, and I really appreciate the attention to detail and transparency available through the Aspire search as opposed to other platforms. I definitely encourage anyone seeking employment to utilize PM&R Aspire. It’s a great resource and it’s included with your membership.” Jess M. Roland, DO, FAAPMR67 Virtual Job and Fellowship Fair participants + 22 employer participants704 in-person Job and Fellowship Fair attendees + 115 employer participants7 AAPMR.ORG
“When I finished training and transitioned into private practice, I expected a learning curve clinically. What I did not anticipate was how much time and attention reimbursement, coding and documentation would require. In private practice, there is no billing department down the hall. Every change in CPT language, every modifier and every payer update becomes the responsibility of the physician. I quickly learned that staying current was not simply about compliance. It was fundamental to whether my practice could remain stable and continue serving patients.AAPM&R became my primary source of clarity in a confusing landscape. The Academy’s reimbursement updates, website resources and policy explanations are among the only tools I can rely on to be timely, relevant and specific to physiatry. I keep the Academy’s coding resources printed and next to my computer and they have helped me avoid errors more times than I can count. They have prevented inappropriate code selection, clarified documentation requirements and helped me avoid billing denials. Those small corrections add up to major savings in both time and stress and allow me to stay focused on patient care.My involvement on the Reimbursement and Policy Review Committee, along with my contribution to the new reimbursement education videos, has strengthened my belief that reimbursement knowledge is essential to our specialty. If physiatrists do not accurately document the full scope of what we provide, we risk diminishing our role in patient outcomes. Accurate coding supports practice viability, professional recognition and patient access. Understanding reimbursement is not a distraction from clinical care. It is one of the most important tools we have to sustain it.”Antigone ArgyriouMD, FAAPMR2025 ANNUAL REPORT 8
300+ media placements over four years positioning PM&R physicians as essential leaders early and throughout the care continuum. Including these articles that highlighted PM&R physicians in 2025: ^ More Alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery are Emerging – The Washington Post^ How To Tell if Your Pelvic Floor Is Tight or Weak—and Why Kegels Aren’t Always the Answer – Women’s World^ Stress Fracture Warning Signs to Pay Attention to Before They Sideline You – Runner’s World^ Super Agers Show Us How to Live Long and Welu – Next Avenue | PBS News^ How to Make Exercising Easier with Psoriatic Arthritis – HealthCentralOUR WORK TO POSITION THE SPECIALTY IN NEW AREAS Check out our recent practice focused educational session on artificial intelligence:^ Expert Conversations in PM&R Practice: The AI-Powered Physiatrist’s Toolkit for Smarter Documentation, Stronger Appeals, and Enhanced Practice EfficiencyINSIGHTS ON AUGMENTED INTELLIGENCE IN PM&RScan to view this session. Scan to read these articles and more. 9 AAPMR.ORG
^ Communications Toolkits: Editable communication tools to help physiatrists highlight the value of PM&R, strengthen conversations with leadership and promote coordinated, patient-centered care.^ New Coding Quick Reference Sheets: Easy-to-use downloadable coding references organized by clinical area, updated annually to support accurate code selection.^ Stroke Rehabilitation and Spine Care Toolkits: Practical guides to support physiatrists in designing and advancing PM&R-driven value-based care models within their health systems. TOOLS TO HELP YOU LEAD AND THRIVEAAPM&R’s updated Compensation Survey will deliver the data physiatrists need to make confident decisions about their careers and practice. Your participation ensures that our specialty is understood, valued and fairly represented. Strong data means strong advocacy, stronger practices and a stronger future for PM&R.2026 COMPENSATION SURVEYScan to learn more about the 2026 Physician Compensation Survey and to view all of our career resources.“Our compensation landscape is changing and we need real data to guide real decisions. Your participation ensures that this study captures the true diversity of our practice settings and experiences, giving all of us clearer benchmarks for negotiation, planning and career growth. When you take the survey, you are strengthening a resource that helps every physiatrist move forward.”Maneesh TiwariMD, FAAPMRHealth Policy, Practice, & Advocacy Committee2025 ANNUAL REPORT 10
N Fighting Against PM&R Physician Fee Cuts and For Fair PaymentN Defending PM&R Physicians Against Scope of Practice ThreatsN Enhancing the Recognition of PM&R Medical Expertise in Inpatient Rehabilitation, Pain Management and Other Clinical Areas#PMRAdvocates in Action: N 1 Hill Day visit in 2025N More than 800letters sentN More than 75 comment letters sentTOP ADVOCACY PRIORITIES HIGHLIGHTING KEY WINS Advocacy That Reflects Who We Are and What We Stand ForAAPM&R advocates for physiatrists and the patients we serve. We work to ensure that PM&R is recognized as an essential part of the healthcare continuum and that the role of rehabilitation physicians is protected, supported and valued. Through a strong presence on Capitol Hill and collaboration with national partners, we advance policies that improve access to care, strengthen fair payment and uphold the quality of rehabilitation services.Our advocacy is member powered. Thousands of physiatrists lend their voices through grassroots engagement, committee work, Hill visits and policy development. Together, we educate policymakers, influence legislation and speak with a unified message about the importance of function, independence and patient quality of life. When we advocate as one community, we move our specialty forward.In 2025, AAPM&R updated our advocacy priorities to address emerging challenges and ensure the specialty remains responsive to the evolving healthcare landscape. Scan to learn more about these priorities and examples of how we’ve advanced them in 2025.“Meeting with my representatives in Congress drove home to me just how much our voice matters. When we speak up for the issues that matter for PM&R and our patients, from ensuring robust federal funding for rehabilitation and disability research to fair payment for physicians, we are speaking up for our patients and policymakers need to hear that.”James Eubanks, Jr.MD, MS, FAAPMR11 AAPMR.ORG
“Advocacy became personal for me long before I ever walked into a meeting on Capitol Hill. Many of my patients rely on Medicare, and I saw how policy decisions made far away were affecting their access to care in real time. When reimbursement rates declined and prior authorization barriers increased, the impact was immediate. Patients were waiting longer for essential treatments and equipment they relied on. Colleagues were strained by administrative burden. And physiatry’s role in rehabilitation was not always recognized for the value it brings. I wanted to do more than adjust to those challenges. I wanted to help change them. Through AAPM&R, I found a place where I could contribute to that change. I joined the Academy’s advocacy efforts and was invited to serve as a physician representative to the ITEM Coalition. Our goal was to secure coverage for power seat elevation for individuals who rely on power wheelchairs. What seemed like a simple function — the ability to rise 12 to 16 inches — signifies independence, dignity and safety. For years, coverage was denied because it was labeled a convenience. We worked for five years. We met with legislators, shared patient stories and made the case again and again. When CMS finally approved coverage in 2023, it was one of the most meaningful moments of my career. I will never forget the tears of happiness from patients and families. Advocacy with AAPM&R has taught me that we can create change beyond the walls of our clinics. And that we are stronger when we do it together.”Anjali ShahMD, FAAMPR2025 ANNUAL REPORT 12
“AAPM&R Practice Guidance Statements help with making confident, evidence-based decisions. Keeping these resources current as new evidence emerges ensures our specialty continues to grow, adapt and deliver the highest standard of evidence based care.” Kirsten SchlosserMD, MPH, 2024-2025: PHiT Ambassador“This growth reflects the dedication of our authors, reviewers and readers who continue to push our specialty forward. The work published in PM&R represents real questions, real challenges and real solutions that improve patient lives.” Janna Friedly MD, FAAPMR, Editor-inChief, PM&R 9,472 full text downloads Long COVID Compendium The PM&R journal’s Impact Factor has grown to 2.8, reflecting the strength, relevance and ongoing contribution of research within our specialty. This increase is a direct reflection of the meaningful work physiatrists are advancing every day—in clinics, in rehabilitation programs, in academic centers and in communities across the country.Thank you to our authors, reviewers and readers who continue to move the field forward.GUIDANCE DOWNLOADS PM&R JOURNAL IMPACT FACTOR INCREASESAAPM&R released a Summit Synthesis capturing recommendations from our inaugural Technology Summit in 2024. Building off the success of the summit, AAPM&R is pursuing next steps in the following key areas:^ Augmented Intelligence^ Digital Rehabilitative Therapy^ Rehabilitation at Home TECHNOLOGY THAT SUPPORTS FUNCTION, RECOVERY AND PATIENT INDEPENDENCEScan to learn more about how AAPM&R is advancing the integration of novel technologies in PM&R. 9,574 full text downloads Spasticity guidanceScan to view the Long COVID Compendium.Scan to view the Spasticity guidance.13 AAPMR.ORGInnovation Through ResearchThe healthcare landscape is always changing and keeping pace with new guidance and guidelines can feel overwhelming. AAPM&R is here to support you, to help you find clarity when systems become complex and to make sure the value of physiatry is recognized across every setting of care.Read on to learn how your peers are leading this work and how their efforts continue to elevate the voice and impact of PM&R.
“The healthcare landscape is always changing and keeping pace with technology innovation can feel overwhelming. AAPM&R is exploring the role technology can play in streamlining administrative tasks associated with physician practice and impacting patient care delivery. The Academy’s technology innovation efforts are guided by members who understand the realities of practice and who are dedicated to improving patient outcomes, strengthening our specialty and shaping the future of rehabilitation medicine. Innovation has become a defining force in healthcare and its influence on rehabilitation medicine is accelerating. The pace of advancement is reshaping not only how we deliver care, but how we conceptualize the systems and technologies that enable patient recovery. That perspective was clear to me as I co-chaired the AAPM&R Technology Summit with Robert Rinaldi, MD, FAAPMR. The emphasis of our Summit was not on the tools of today, but on the new models of care emerging just beyond the horizon. One of the most important ways the Academy can leverage health technology to advance the specialty is to envision the future. I imagine a healthcare environment in which advanced technologies are not add-ons to practice, but foundational elements of clinical decision-making and patient access. Standing at the crest of that transformation is where the Academy delivers tremendous value—anticipating trends, evaluating solutions, and equipping physiatrists to lead rather than follow. That is why I am energized by the release of the Summit Synthesis in 2025. It provides a strategic blueprint for the Academy’s next steps in 2026 when we will explore integrating augmented intelligence, digital rehabilitative platforms and rehabilitation-in-the-home technologies into practice in ways that are thoughtful, scalable and clinically meaningful.”Thiru M. Annaswamy MD, MA, FAAPMR2025 ANNUAL REPORT 14
AAPM&R provides high quality CME opportunities that are convenient and meaningful, helping members meet their CME and Maintenance of Certification requirements while learning in ways that fit their schedules.128 CME credits available to members at no additional cost2 in-person interactive sessions offered to PGY2 residents this year provided a unique opportunity to explore the breadth of PM&R through hands-on training, interactive case studies and small group discussions with national leaders and mentors across the specialty. ^ 60 invited individuals representing 52 institutions from 22 states plus Washington DC.AAPM&R’s STEP Certificate Programs are built by physiatrists, for physiatrists. Each program offers a guided, hands-on learning experience that strengthens clinical skills, deepens confidence and supports real growth in practice. Using a progressive, competencybased approach, STEP helps physiatrists advance at every level of their career.^ 150+ physiatrists have earned STEP certificates across all programs^ 100% of participants say they would recommend STEP to a colleague and believe it has positively impacted their patient careKnowledge That Elevates Your PracticeLifelong learning is at the heart of physiatry. No matter your clinical focus, practice setting or stage of training, AAPM&R provides education designed to support your growth, strengthen your skills and expand what is possible for your patients.Through courses, virtual learning, on-demand resources and live experiences, we help physiatrists stay ahead of medical and healthcare changes while advancing knowledge across the specialty. Our educational offerings are created by physiatrists for physiatrists, ensuring that every resource reflects the realities of practice and the shared commitment to improving function and quality of life.CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATIONRESIDENT RETREAT STEP CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS—SKILLS, TRAINING, EVALUATION AND PERFORMANCE “Every patient journey is unique and I rely on education that empowers me to meet them where they are. AAPM&R provides high-quality learning that expands my perspective and elevates my practice, ultimately improving the way I help patients reclaim movement, independence and joy.” Rachel Brakke HolmanMD, FAAPMRMedical Education Committee Chair Learn more about the STEP Certificate Programs.15 AAPMR.ORG
Access 24/7 learning through AAPM&R’s Online Learning Portal—your destination for essential clinical and practice resources, personalized CME tracking and a wide range of educational activities, all available with a member-exclusive subscription.ONLINE LEARNING PORTAL & ONLINE EDUCATION SUBSCRIPTION300+14,268150150 2,3173,163+95%95%PRODUCTS IN ONLINE LEARNING PORTALACTIVITIES COMPLETED IN THE LAST 30 DAYSLEARNING ACTIVITIES FREE WITH MEMBERSHIPPRODUCTS IN THE ONLINE EDUCATION SUBSCRIPTION ACTIVE USERS WITHIN THE LAST 30 DAYSSUBSCRIBERS AND GROWINGOF MEMBERS RATE OUR EDUCATIONAL PRODUCTS AS HIGH QUALITYWOULD RECOMMEND TO A COLLEAGUEAAPM&R LEARN MOBILE 46 APP PROVIDES 24/7 EDUCATION+108PRODUCTS FREE FOR MEMBERS JOURNALCME2025 ANNUAL REPORT 16
Implementing the outcomes of the 2022 and 2024 Spasticity Summits, AAPM&R continues to educate physicians and patients on this important symptom. Multiple sessions on this therapeutic topic were held at #AAPMR25. Additionally, a robust patient education tool and physician education piece targeted for primary care physicians and early-career physiatrists were launched at the end of 2025 providing additional resources and referrals for physicians and their patients. Scan to learn more. AAPM&R’S ONGOING EFFORTS TO CLOSE THE TREATMENT GAP IN SPASTICITY AAPM&R PhyzFeed, our new dynamic microlearning platform created just for physiatrists, is now live! Check your inbox—you should have already received an invitation from Qstream, our platform partner. Just scan the code and start feeding your brain with PhyzFeed today!PHYZFEED: MICROLEARNING FOR PM&R^ 327 total participants - AAPM&R was proud to collaborate with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), supporting the USOPC-NGB Medical Conference held in February as a partner and provider of CME credit ^ 350 total participants - The Academy also co-sponsored the inaugural Paralympic Sports Medicine Conference, at the Colorado Springs Olympic & Paralympic Training Center and virtually in September AAPM&R’S GROWING PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UNITED STATES OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE“AAPM&R’s partnership was essential to the success of the inaugural 2025 US Olympic & Paralympic Committee Paralympic Sports Medicine Conference, and I am deeply grateful for their enthusiastic support. By promoting the event across multiple platforms, they helped us reach a broad audience of physiatrists who are interested in working with Paralympic athletes. The AAPM&R’s commitment to advancing Paralympic sports medicine education reflects a shared dedication to improving the care of athletes with disabilities, strengthening the network of clinicians who serve them and enhancing the careers of their members.”Jonathan FinnoffDO, FAAPMRChief Medical Officer of the USOPC 17 AAPMR.ORG
“I take care of patients with all causes of spasticity in the Boston area, including at Tufts Medical Center which is a large, urban, social safety net hospital. Earlier this year, it came to our attention that Medicare was looking to pass policies to reduce the maximum dose of botulinum toxin injections by roughly 40% nationwide, which would have certainly impaired our ability to properly care for this at-risk population. I didn’t know where to turn, because there aren’t many who do what we do and this is an often overlooked population. I therefore turned to AAPM&R, which mounted a campaign to push back against these drastic, uninformed cuts, and held a Spasticity Summit in Chicago which was attended by CMS administrators with the goal of educating them, and others in the community, the challenges we face in caring for this often overlooked population.Without the direct educational and advocacy efforts of AAPM&R, these policies to decrease the dose of botulinum toxins we can give our patients surely would have passed. The Academy deserves all of our thanks for mounting such a concerted and well-planned effort, and they’ve gained an involved, active member for life.” Zachary W. BohartMD, MS, FAAPMR2025 ANNUAL REPORT 18
There Truly is No Specialty Like PM&R There is something truly unique about PM&R. The strength of our specialty comes from the people who shape it—the compassion we bring to patient care, the collaboration that defines our work and the community we build when we come together.This year, that spirit was on full display as thousands of physiatrists gathered in Salt Lake City and virtually for four days filled with learning, connection and shared purpose. From pre-conference courses and the Job and Fellowship Fair to a vibrant Exhibit Hall and a full schedule of high-quality education, the Annual Assembly offered opportunities to grow, reconnect and be inspired.Check out some event highlights… 950+PM&R PARTY ATTENDEES 89 DIDACTIC LECTURES 39 LIVE-STREAMED SESSIONS 11 HANDS-ON SKILLS LABS 3 PLENARYSESSIONSIncluding Lt. Gen. Nadia West, Ryan Holiday and PhyzTalks 3PRE-CONFERENCE COURSES (Ultrasound, Concussion/Mild TBI and EDX) 401 FACULTY 76 ACCEPTED SESSION PROPOSALS117 CME 1 EXUBERANTEXHIBIT HALL 19 AAPMR.ORG
“There is something truly special about the moments we share at the Annual Assembly—the spontaneous hugs, the sparks of collaboration, the sense of belonging that fills every room. Each year, I leave reminded that our community is strong because we show up for one another.”Sarah HwangMD, FAAPMRChair, Program Planning Committee 2600+PHYSIATRISTS 930+ RESEARCH POSTERS (27 approved by ABPMR for QI (MOC4) credit)6 ADVANCED CLINICAL FOCUS AREAS (Cancer Rehabilitation, Inpatient Rehabilitation, MSK and Sports, Neuro Rehabilitation, Pain and Spine and Pediatric Rehabilitation) 24 MEMBER COMMUNITY MEET-UPS 130+ EXHIBITORS ON OUR SHOW FLOOR 12 INDUSTRY-SPONSORED EDUCATION SESSIONS 9 LEARNING CENTER SESSIONS 2025 ANNUAL REPORT 20
Our Annual Assembly returns November 11–14, and we can’t wait to come together again! After a year of shared learning, collaboration and inspiring moments in 2025, #AAPMR26 will be an extraordinary opportunity to reconnect, recharge and continue shaping the future of our specialty together.We are returning to Orlando for PM&R’s largest gathering of the year—a place where peers become colleagues, colleagues become collaborators and the specialty feels like home. Whether you attend for the learning, the community, the conversations or the spark of new ideas, you will find it at the 2026 Annual Assembly.Join us for:N High-quality PM&R education led by experts across the fieldN A lively Exhibit Hall filled with exhibitors, demonstrations and hands-on learningN Research and innovation that will shape tomorrow’s practiceN Opportunities to celebrate the specialty and the people who make it extraordinaryWe hope you will be part of the experience. Registration opens for this event this spring! Scan for more information.We’re looking for physiatrists who are interested in facilitating and fostering a collaborative learning environment at #AAPMR26. Play a part in physiatry’s premier meeting by sending us your submissions. Add these key dates to your calendar and watch for more information—coming soon: ^ Call for Session Proposals: Due January 14 ^ Research Abstracts and Case Studies: Open on January 27 and will close March 23^ Late-breaking Research: Open late May and will close mid/late June^ 2026 PhyzTalks Submissions: Open late May and will close mid/late JuneJOIN US FOR #AAPMR26November 11-14, OrlandoSAVE THEDATEHELP SHAPE CONTENT FOR THE 2026 ANNUAL ASSEMBLY 21 AAPMR.ORG
“When I think about the moments that shaped my career, so many of them began at the AAPM&R Annual Assembly. The education itself has always been valuable, but the real growth happened in the conversations that followed—hallway discussions, small-group chats, late-evening meetups where ideas turned into mentorship and mentorship turned into lifelong community. Those relationships have guided me through every stage of my journey as a physiatrist.As a cancer rehabilitation physician, I have watched our field expand in ways that once felt aspirational. Much of that progress has happened because AAPM&R created the space for us to define who we are, share our science and learn from one another. The Academy helped provide the structure our subspecialty needed when it was still gaining recognition; it brought us together, encouraged research collaboration and helped us articulate our value across the continuum of cancer care.There isn’t another organization that offers the same depth, relevance or connection. The education is not just about knowledge—it is about the shared belief that function, dignity and quality of life matter. AAPM&R education reminds me why our work matters and surrounds me with colleagues who inspire me to do it better. I continue to return, year after year, because we are building something meaningful together.”Samman ShahparMD, FAAMPR2025 ANNUAL REPORT 22
Connect With Us on Social Media @AAPMR @AAPMR @AAPMRINFO @AAPM&R9700 W. Bryn Mawr Ave, Ste 200Rosemont, IL 60018www.aapmr.orgPHONE 847.737.6000FAX [email protected] Academy ofPhysical Medicine and RehabilitationPRESORTFIRST CLASS MAILU.S. POSTAGEPAIDPERMIT NO 6585CHICAGO, IL 60607AAPM&R is focused on supporting you as a PM&R physician and advancing the impact of PM&R throughout healthcare. Thank you for supporting your primary medical specialty society. We are incredibly grateful for our generous members, whose ideas and support drive our specialty forward. Scan to view all the benefits of membership.Thank YouFor being an AAPM&R member