The autumn meeting of the UEMS Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) Section and Board in Palanga marked a pivotal moment in our speciality’s development. Under the distinguished leadership of Section President Dr. Mauro Zampolini and Board President Dr. Nikolaos Barotsis, the gathering brought together experts from across Europe for a series of crucial workshops that shaped the future direction of PRM.

The meeting proved particularly significant, with several landmark decisions taken across various domains – from examination reforms to clinical practice guidelines. Through productive discussions and collaborative efforts, participants addressed key challenges facing our speciality while setting ambitious goals for the future. The workshops demonstrated the Section’s commitment to advancing PRM education, standardising practices, and embracing technological innovation.

Board Workshop

The autumn gathering brought together 46 delegates, guests, and Board experts, marking a significant milestone in our examination processes. The European Board of PRM Examination moved decisively into the digital age through the adoption of a computer-based format with enhanced security measures. 127 candidates from 20 countries participated, demonstrating the examination’s growing reach. The primary statistical validity analysis of the examination results has shown that the examination was statistically valid and reliable. In response to current economic conditions, the assembly approved a fee adjustment to €300, with a reduced rate of €240 for nations incorporating the Board examination into their national examination systems.

The meeting saw several key appointments, including Dr. Maria Gabriella Ceravolo as Chairperson for the Certification and Recertification of Trainers. Distinguished awards were presented to past presidents for their role in examination reform. At the same time, the American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation received special recognition for their extraordinary support of EBPRM’s mission.

Professional Practice Committee (PPC) Workshop

With 39 delegates in attendance, the PPC workshop tackled ten crucial areas of development. The Book of Field of Competence continues progressing, with completion targeted for September 2025. Significant strides were made in PRM representation in the UEMS Multidisciplinary Joint Committees and Thematic Federations, while Cochrane Rehabilitation projects are on track for completion by March 2025.

The workshop emphasised WHO’s focus on primary care development and the report that was published. The UEMS PRM Section and Board produced an official statement on PRM Physicians’ role in Primary Care. A notable development was the approval of a new Working Group on PRM and Assistive Technologies, championed by Mauro Zampolini.

Digital transformation emerged as a key theme, with plans for enhanced social media presence, podcasts, and innovative educational materials. The initiative is also an opportunity for young PRM physicians to join this exciting development.

Clinical Affairs Committee (CAC) Workshop

The 19 delegates attending the CAC workshop received encouraging updates about program accreditation. Dr. Iuly Treger presented a streamlined accreditation process now available on the UEMS PRM website. Anda Nulle outlined promotion activities and plans, including the publication of Clinical Practice Workshops in the EJPRM.

The workshop celebrated the accreditation of three new programs: Hand & Wrist rehabilitation, Stroke rehabilitation, and Traumatic Brain Injury rehabilitation, all receiving GA approval.

For detailed information about the program accreditation process, please activate this link. 

Combined PPC and CAC Workshop

The joint session showcased several innovative projects shaping PRM’s future. Dr. Catarina Aguiar Branco presented developments in the ICF Clinical Tool and the new “ClinFIT-MSK” project. At the same time, Dr. Mauro Zampolini updated attendees on the Individual Rehabilitation Project pilot study.

Dr. Aydan Oral shared progress in Telerehabilitation and Digital Health initiatives, followed by Dr. Iuly Treger’s presentation of the Position Statement on “PRM for Outpatients,” which received GA approval. The workshop concluded with essential discussions on integrating sexual rehabilitation into general PRM activities, leading to approval to develop an evidence-based position paper on sexual rehabilitation in Disability.

These workshops have demonstrated our section’s continued commitment to advancing PRM through education, standardisation, and innovation, setting a clear course for the future of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine across Europe.