by Sue Brown, CEO ARMA
Things feel very precarious and uncertain as everywhere in the UK takes measures to control the spread of Covid-19. With the various tiered systems, the firebreak in Wales and the four-week lockdown in England, we all know that this is going to be a difficult winter, especially for people working in the NHS and those who need healthcare. ARMA will continue to support our members through whatever the winter holds and to champion the importance of MSK services. In these difficult times I find that it is also important to hold onto positives.
- Bone and Joint Week last month was a great opportunity to emphasise the importance of MSK health for people’s mobility, ability to work and stay healthy. The numbers of individuals and organisations, including NHS England and Public Health England, taking part was fantastic, resulting in a 30% increase in our reach. It was also great to see our new Associate Members getting involved.
- Our upcoming conference will celebrate all things multidisciplinary, collaborative and transformational in MSK. We have a fantastic range of speakers, networking and a virtual exhibition. If you want to talk to any of the exhibitors but can’t be at the conference, we even have free exhibition tickets available. A conference ticket will also get you into the plenary sessions and the virtual networking space, a certificate of attendance and the option for a virtual coffee with a random delegate after the conference if you wish. ARMA events can result in some exciting connections.
- Things are not the same as in the Spring. We know more about treating the virus, about when and how to use digital health and remote appointments well, there are lots of resources to support people with self-management if they can’t access services. This blog lists some of these. The MSK world has innovated and collaborated and that will continue long after the pandemic is over.
- We’ve begun planning for ARMA’s activities in 2021, which feels positive and exciting, even though we can’t be sure what next year will bring. As with this year, we’ll adapt and take opportunities where they arise to deliver our strategy. We’ll be working with our members and stakeholders to promote the fundamental importance of MSK in ensuring people are mobile, active and independent, which is what our economy will need to rebuild post Covid. We hope you will be there with us.