Florida Society of Rheumatology

04/27/2026

The future of rheumatology is here.

Join us at the FSR Annual Meeting for an exciting session exploring the next frontier in cellular therapy.

Hear from Vikas Majithia, MBBS, MPH on CAR-T and Beyond: Current Results and Future Potential and Guillermo Valenzuela, MD on CAR-NK & ALLO-NK in Autoimmune Disease Management followed by a dynamic panel discussion on the future of CAR-T therapy.

Two innovators. Two groundbreaking perspectives. One can’t-miss conversation.

https://floridarheumatology.org/event/FSR2026

04/22/2026

Advocating for Patients on Capitol Hill

We’re proud to see FSR Past President Dr. Robert Levin representing physicians at the national level as part of the Alliance for Transparent and Affordable Prescriptions 2026 Advocacy Days in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Levin joined members of Congress, including Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Congressman Byron Donalds, to advocate for meaningful reform of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), a critical issue impacting medication access and affordability for our patients.

ATAP’s message is clear. It is time for policies that put patients first by reducing out-of-pocket costs, increasing transparency, and ensuring timely access to needed therapies.

This is physician advocacy in action and a reminder of the important role rheumatologists play in shaping healthcare policy.

https://atapadvocates.com/atap-news/2026/4/22/alliance-for-transparent-and-affordable-prescriptions-returns-to-capitol-hill-for-2026-advocacy-days

04/15/2026

Physician Workforce Shortage Impacting Patient Care

A recent report from NBC News highlights a growing national concern, a shortage of rheumatologists.

As Americans live longer, autoimmune diseases are increasing, yet access to specialists is becoming more limited. Patients are facing longer wait times and delayed care, with some waiting months to see a provider.

This is a critical issue affecting patient outcomes and access to care nationwide.

Watch the full story:

There’s a growing shortage of a key specialty doctor nationwide. With more Americans living longer, auto-immune diseases are on the rise. But rheumatologists...

04/14/2026

Two important deadlines. One date: April 30.

Register now to lock in early rates and submit your abstract before midnight for a chance to present at the FSR Annual Meeting.

Be part of the future of Rheumatology.

Don’t miss it.

https://floridarheumatology.org/event/FSR2026

04/06/2026

Power the Future of Rheumatology!

Trainees, this is your moment. Submit your research or most interesting cases for the FSR 2026 Annual Meeting.

• Top abstracts selected for oral presentations (cash prizes up to $1,000)
• Poster & podium opportunities
• Complimentary hotel stay for selected presenters

Open to Rheumatology Fellows, Residents (IM/FM), Medical Students & Undergrads across Florida.

Deadline: April 30, 2026 (midnight — no exceptions!)

Don’t miss your chance to present, connect, and elevate your work.
https://floridarheumatology.orgAbstract

# Rheumatology

04/02/2026

Don’t miss this message from our Program Chair Dr. Catherine Kowal.

The 2026 FSR Annual Meeting is shaping up to be an incredible experience! Top-tier education, networking, and a beautiful setting at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal OrlandoLoews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando.

We hope to see you there!

https://floridarheumatology.org/event/FSR2026

04/01/2026

Exciting Update: FSR 2026 Annual Meeting!

We’re excited to share the latest on the Florida Society of Rheumatology 2026 Annual Meeting, taking place July 16–19, 2026 at the beautiful Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando.

A preliminary clinical agenda is now available take a look and be sure to secure your spot if you haven’t registered yet!

This year’s meeting is shaping up to be an exceptional experience focused on education, collaboration, and connection. Stay current with the latest advancements in rheumatology while engaging with colleagues from across the state.

Bring the family and enjoy the resort’s vibrant, Caribbean-inspired atmosphere in the heart of Universal Orlando!

We look forward to seeing you in Orlando this July!
https://floridarheumatology.org/event/FSR2026

03/30/2026

This Doctors Day 2026, the Florida Society of Rheumatology honors the physicians who bring relief, mobility, and hope to patients living with rheumatic diseases.

Your dedication to advancing care and improving quality of life makes a meaningful difference every single day.

Thank you for your compassion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to your patients.

03/30/2026

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used by insurance companies to review and deny claims, often with little transparency.

These automated systems can process large volumes quickly, but they may overlook important details or context, leading to questionable or unfair denials.

AI can improve efficiency, but when it comes to healthcare and insurance decisions, human oversight is critical to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability.

https://floridarheumatology.org/news/724393/Is-AI-denying-your-insurance-claim-Its-happening-way-more-than-you-think..htm

AI’s role in insurance is already spawning lawsuits and battles over its regulation. That's not slowing down its use.

03/20/2026

Match Day 2026: Welcome to Your Medical Journey!

Future rheumatologists and all incoming residents, today marks a major step in your career! The Florida Society of Rheumatology applauds your dedication to improving patient care and advancing the science of rheumatology.

We can’t wait to see the amazing impact you will make!

03/09/2026

Fraser Cobbe and Joe Daraskevich discuss the latest developments from the legislative session, including an update on the state budget and why lawmakers may not reach an agreement before session ends.

They also review several health policy issues currently being debated in Tallahassee, including vaccine-related legislation and other medical topics that still face hurdles as bills must pass in both chambers.

The episode wraps up with an update on proposed legislation related to sovereign immunity and what it could mean moving forward.

Stay informed on the issues impacting physicians and healthcare in Florida.

Fraser Cobbe and Joe Daraskevich flip the script a little bit this week by introducing the musical selection first before jumping into the weekly headlines. ...

03/09/2026

Drs. Faith, Levin, and Reddy take a moment during the Florida Society of Rheumatology Leadership Retreat to enjoy the historic setting at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in St. Augustine.

The Florida Society of Rheumatology Board of Directors recently gathered for their annual Leadership Retreat to plan for the year ahead. During the retreat, board members focused on strategic priorities to strengthen the society, enhance member engagement, advance advocacy efforts, and begin planning for future meetings.

We appreciate the time and dedication our volunteer leaders invest to ensure FSR continues to support and represent rheumatologists across Florida.