In this program, learners will delve into the crucial role of social determinants of health (SDoH) in patient care, particularly within rheumatology. Participants will understand how factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and accessibility to healthcare can significantly affect disease outcomes and treatment options. The course offers insight into identifying and overcoming implicit biases to promote health equity, enhancing patient communication, and fostering a team-based approach to address SDoH effectively. Furthermore, it delves into the integration of mental health considerations within the SDoH framework, emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive strategies encompassing both mental and physical wellbeing for improved patient outcomes. This education will empower healthcare professionals with actionable knowledge and skills to catalyze systematic change, advocate for policies that promote health equity, and ultimately, improve the quality of life for patients managing chronic conditions

Upon completion of the tactics described in this educational initiative, learners will be able to:

• Define social determinants of health as they relate to the rheumatology patient population.
• Recall healthcare resources available to patients, which would assist in adherence to treatment plans.
• Recognize care elements which develop a practice culture that values health equity.
• Understand how a planned, team-based approach can address social determinants of health.

The target audience for this forum includes registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), licensed practical and vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs), and other healthcare professionals who are engaged in clinical practice, education, research, and advocacy for the care of adult and pediatric patients with rheumatic diseases. The content of this education will also be applicable to healthcare professionals new to rheumatology, as well as students considering entering the field of rheumatology.

The online evaluation will be made available at the conclusion of the program and will be sent to your email. Once completed, your Certificate of Credit and Attendance will be calculated and saved to your online profile. No physical certificates will be provided.

According to the disclosure policy of the Rheumatology Nurses Society, all faculty, planning committee members, editors, managers and other individuals who are in a position to control content are required to disclose any financial relationships with ineligible companies. All educational materials are reviewed for fair balance, scientific objectivity and levels of evidence, and any relevant financial relationships are mitigated.

Planners, reviewers, and faculty disclosures are listed below:

Carolyn Zic, MSN, FNP-BC, Accredited Provider Program Director, Faculty Presenter
Nothing to disclose

Sadie Larson, Director of Education, Rheumatology Nurses Society
Nothing to disclose

Gwen Robinson, RN, Faculty Presenter
Nothing to disclose

Nick Manwaring, MSN, APRN, FNP‑C, Faculty Presenter
Nothing to disclose

Teri Puhalsky, BSN, RN, CRNI, Faculty Presenter
Nothing to disclose

Carrie Beach, BSN, RN, Faculty Presenter
Advisory Board: Fresenius Kabi, UCB

Barbara Kienzle, BSN, RN, Faculty Presenter
Consultant: Pfizer, UCB

Joni Fontenot, ASN, RN, Faculty Presenter
Advisory Board: Novartis, UCB, Fresenius Kabi

Educational Support: This program has been supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Bristol Myers Squibb. The complimentary brunch is provided by the Rheumatology Nurses Society.