Rheumatoid Arthritis Across the Lifespan: Evidence-Based Approaches for Primary and Specialty Care

At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Differentiate between adult and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis based on clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and classification criteria.

2. Analyze the genetic, immunologic, environmental, and hormonal factors contributing to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Interpret current evidence-based guidelines to diagnose, treat, and monitor patients with rheumatoid arthritis across diverse populations and care settings.

4. Evaluate the risks and benefits of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies, including biologics, DMARDs, and integrative approaches, with attention to special populations such as pregnant individuals and older adults.

5. Design patient-centered education and self-management plans that incorporate health literacy, cultural competence, and strategies for addressing healthcare disparities in rheumatoid arthritis care.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disorder that can cause irreversible joint damage, functional decline, and significant comorbidities when it is not recognized and managed promptly. Its varied clinical presentations, complex pathophysiology, and evolving treatment landscape require coordinated, evidence-based care across the lifespan. This comprehensive training addresses the need for updated knowledge related to early recognition, diagnostic evaluation, pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic management, treatment monitoring, rehabilitation, health disparities, patient education, and self-management. By providing current guidelines, interdisciplinary strategies, and practical clinical frameworks, the course supports improved outcomes, continuity of care, and equitable treatment for individuals affected by RA. This activity is designed for healthcare professionals involved in the recognition, assessment, treatment, monitoring, rehabilitation, referral, education, or coordination of care for patients with rheumatoid arthritis across primary care, specialty care, pharmacy, rehabilitation, behavioral health, dental, community, and other healthcare settings. Participants should apply the course content according to their professional education, licensure, clinical responsibilities, and scope of practice. The activity supports interdisciplinary collaboration in clinical assessment, medication safety and monitoring, treat-to-target care, functional support, patient counseling, referral, and care coordination.