For the past 35 years the Annual Seminar "Frontiers of Rheumatology" has honored the memory of Carl M. Pearson MD, the founding chief of rheumatology at UCLA, by gathering a distinguished faculty for three days of interactions, presentations and educational discussions with participants of current topics, recent advances and impending progress of importance to physicians and other providers of care to patients with autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions. The course has been well-reviewed by participants and by visiting faculty who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, challenging queries from participants and many opportunities for interactions. Many have repeatedly returned to subsequent seminars. Participants record their opinions about the quality of each presentation and of the overall course each year. In 2016, there were 162 attendees. Ninety-five percent thought the program taught or verified important information and a gratifyingly high 91% felt the information would impact their practices. Ninety-six percent thought the program fulfilled the course objectives and 98.9% would recommend the course to others. As before, 95% felt an annual update is needed.

Participants also record their suggestions for future topics and speakers. Their suggestions are used by the organizers, along with comments from the faculty and knowledge of current literature and areas of need, to develop each year’s program. The basic purpose of the seminars is to maintain and improve the skills of the participants so as to improve the care and outcomes of their patients.

Target Audience

This program is intended to provide rheumatologists, interested physicians, health care professionals, and rheumatology fellows with the most current information and insights on treatment of rheumatic disease. Interaction between participants and faculty members is emphasized.