American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Message to the Future of Spine

From the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) For the NASS 40th Anniversary Time Capsule – 2025

As we join the North American Spine Society and our multidisciplinary partners in celebrating four decades of progress in spine care, the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) is a proud, committed, and strategic contributor to the vision for the future of spine.

Today’s Landscape:

  • Spine and pain medicine is a central practice area in physiatry.
  • AAPM&R’s strategic support of advocacy, education, and innovation in the area of spine care is informed and led by dedicated members who are recognized experts in this practice area.

Our Collaborative Approach:

AAPM&R actively collaborates across disciplines, including through the Multidisciplinary Pain Workgroup (MPW), which brings together leading organizations to guide coverage recommendations and preserve patient access to appropriate care.

AAPM&R is proud to work alongside NASS and other societies in the MPW, advocating for evidence-based policies and multidisciplinary solutions. Our coalitions and liaison roles span pain medicine, interventional procedures, and spine rehabilitation, ensuring that our members’ voices shape the future of care.

Advocacy and Innovation:

  • AAPM&R champions policies that protect physician payment, coverage for pain procedures, and access to telehealth.
  • AAPM&R’s Spine Care Toolkit and digital rehabilitative therapy resources empower physiatrists to lead in alternative payment models and innovative care delivery.
  • AAPM&R responds to emerging challenges with updated position statements and quality improvement initiatives.

Looking Forward:

To the spine professionals of 2065: We hope you will build upon today’s foundation of collaboration, advocacy, and innovation. May you continue to advance the science and art of spine care, always centering around the needs and dignity of those you serve. Let our shared legacy be one of partnership, progress, and unwavering commitment to improving lives.

With respect and optimism,

The American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

AAPM&R is proud to work alongside NASS and other societies in the MPW, advocating for evidence-based policies and multidisciplinary solutions. Our coalitions and liaison roles span pain medicine, interventional procedures, and spine rehabilitation, ensuring that our members’ voices shape the future of care.

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