Briefing Papers

How to Use These Papers

The purpose of this information is to provide interested professionals and lay persons with information about the practice of some of the health professionals who are involved in the care of people with various forms of arthritis and rheumatic diseases.

The Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ARHP), a division of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), developed these role descriptions. The ACR Board of Directors approved the final versions.

The Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals is an interdisciplinary organization of health care professionals whose purpose is to promote education, research, and quality care in the rheumatic diseases.

• The Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse
• The Role of the Registered Nurse
• The Role of the Occupational Therapist
• The Role of the Physical Therapist
• The Role of the Social Worker
• The Role of Interdisciplinary Team Management
• The Role of the Psychologist
• The Role of the Rheumatologist
• The Role of the Physician Assistant

The Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ARHP), a division of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), developed these role descriptions. The ACR Board of Directors approved the final versions. Revised October 2002.