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Director’s Letter
July 28, 2005
Since my last Director's letter, many important developments have occurred for MARRTC. In particular, our three research projects are moving forward and are actively recruiting participants.
Research Project 1 entitled "An Online Self-Management Program for Adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis" has launched a study website www.rahelp.org. The online learning community for this project will include chat rooms, discussion groups, and the delivery of a comprehensive, Self-management program.
Research Project 2 entitled "Exercise and Physical Fitness for Persons with Knee Osteoarthritis: Does One Size Fit All?" has recently updated the methodological aspects of evaluating the severity of arthritis of the knee; these protocol enhancements will lead to a far more important study from a scientific standpoint. Recruitment for the protocol is underway.
Research Project 3 entitled "Worksite Vocational Rehabilitation Intervention to Improve Employment Outcomes for Persons with Arthritis?" is actively involved in providing worksite evaluations for participants. Special outreach efforts have been made to employers to maximize participation in the project. The model for the delivery of the worksite intervention is proving to be highly successful.
In addition, the capacity-building and dissemination projects are all progressing extremely well. In particular, an educational forum entitled "America's Emerging Healthcare Crisis: Why Covering Disability Now Makes Sense" resulted in excellent dialogue between presenters and participants on issues pertaining to the pipeline for medications for persons with arthritis. In many ways, the MARRTC Dissemination Office has been proactive about providing public information on arthritis rehabilitation at the national level.
In summary, I hope you benefit from your visit to the MARRTC website. If you are interested, please consider enrolling in one of our research studies at the following page: MARRTC Research Studies
Jerry C. Parker, Ph.D.
Director
Missouri Arthritis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center
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