Learn the differentials to eliminate the disparities by recognizing, diagnosing and treating lupus in a culturally competent manner.
Overview
The Lupus Initiative® (TLI), a national program of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), is dedicated to providing tools and resources to healthcare providers, from general practitioners and medical specialists to nurse practitioners and school nurses. TLI’s robust offering includes continuing medical education, patient materials, interactive case studies, videos, presentations, and more. By helping healthcare providers recognize who is most at risk for lupus and make appropriate referrals to rheumatologists, TLI aims to improve health prospects for people with undiagnosed lupus.
Rural Health Outreach Project
The ACR Rural Health Outreach Project (RHOP) aims to reduce health disparities and improve lupus diagnosis in rural areas by enhancing education and referral networks. The initiative involves virtual and live sessions with rural Area Health Education Centers (AHECs) and rheumatologists, reaching over 500 providers in 17 states by 2022 and seeking new participants for future cycles.
Complimentary Continuing Medical Education
The ACR offers a variety of free Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses designed to enhance healthcare providers’ knowledge on lupus and related conditions. These include case studies, multiple-choice questions, and activities covering topics such as reproductive health, lupus and pregnancy, and increasing minority participation in clinical trials. Each course provides AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ upon successful completion.
Teaching Fellows in Lupus Project
The ACR’s Teaching Fellows in Lupus Project aims to improve lupus diagnosis and treatment by enlisting rheumatology fellows-in-training to educate healthcare providers about lupus. The initiative addresses the limited lupus training outside rheumatology and the shortage of rheumatologists for ongoing education. It includes interactive sessions to help providers recognize symptoms, refer patients, and understand lupus epidemiology and health disparities. Participating fellows gain educational experience and training programs receive funding support.
Community Healthcare Workers
The ACR’s Community Health Worker (CHW) programs goal is to enhance lupus education and awareness among various communities. Programs like the Lupus Clinical Trials Training (LuCTT) and Illuminating Lupus Series are designed to increase CHWs’ knowledge about lupus symptoms, improve patient support, and encourage minority participation in clinical trials. Resources include training modules, educational presentations, and facilitator guides, all aimed at supporting CHWs in their outreach efforts.
School Health Outreach Project
The School Health Outreach Project (SHOP) utilizes school-based healthcare providers to improve care for pediatric lupus patients through educational sessions in public schools. The project includes training on lupus signs and symptoms, family and student support, and transitioning from pediatric to adult care. Resources include educational presentations, a Lupus Care Plan, and a Transition Plan, all aimed at enhancing the role of school nurses in lupus management.