by Adrian Bradley
As the year draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on my first six months in post. Since joining ARMA in June, I’ve met almost all our members and associate members. I’ve been heartened by your generosity, honesty, and commitment to improving MSK health for millions of people.
I’ve drunk more tea and coffee than is advisable (although some were ‘virtual’, so they don’t count), heard brilliant ideas from every corner of the MSK community, and come across more jargon, acronyms and abbreviations than I knew existed. I now regularly find myself in conversations where MSK, ICSs, ICBs, FLS, OA, RA, JIA, AHPs, FCPs, APPs, PROMs, PREMs and MDTs all appear in the same sentence – usually before I’ve finished my first cup of tea. I’m thinking of inventing some myself just to confuse you too.
Together we’ve shaped the foundations of our new strategy, strengthened our policy voice and championed prevention, neighbourhood MSK health and more equitable support for people of all ages. We’ve built new relationships, reignited old ones, and re-affirmed the importance of ARMA.
As we head into the festive season, I want to thank you for your support, your wisdom, and your willingness to collaborate.
Merry Christmas and a healthy, hopeful, happy New Year from all of us at ARMA.