With the recognition that rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) and immunosuppression can affect the immunogenicity and safety of vaccines, the ACR has issued its own guideline for vaccination in patients with RMDs. Project leader Anne Bass, MD, and other panelists outlined the new recommendations at ACR Convergence.

The second of three plenary sessions addressed ground-breaking developments in rheumatic diseases, including Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, lupus, and osteoarthritis. Raisa Lomanto Silva, MD, discussed drug co-pay costs and adherence.

Children with rheumatic disease often become adults with rheumatic disease. Cuoghi Edens, MD, FAAP, and Jacqueline Maher, MD, discussed how rheumatology providers can support reproductive health and protect fertility in adolescent patients.

Panelists including Megan Clowse, MD, MPH, offered practical guidance and tools for discussing contraception and family planning with rheumatology patients. She encouraged honest, accurate conversation, as well as creating an environment of trust and safety.

Many transgender and non-binary patients avoid seeking care because of the discrimination they have faced in the clinic. This lack of care can lead to chronic health issues, said Nathan Levitt, FNP-BC, MSN, RN, BSN, MA, in a session on strategies for improving the clinical experience for this population.

During this year’s Great Debate, experts including Janet Pope, MD, MPH, FRCPC, and Hani El-Gabalawy, MD, FRCPC, reviewed the data on subclinical disease and the risk of progression to rheumatoid arthritis, presenting arguments for and against starting a DMARD in this challenging clinical scenario.