More than 600 attendees converged in Scottsdale, AZ, for our milestone 40th Annual AAPM Meeting.
Welcoming a range of multidisciplinary pain medicine specialists, the 40th-anniversary celebration offered attendees a myriad of special events and opportunities, commemorating the past achievements and looking forward to the future of pain medicine. These festivities underscored AAPM’s enduring commitment to the advancement of pain medicine through innovation, advocacy, and education.
This year’s event built upon the success of previous meetings, offering an engaging mix of novel pre-con sessions, flash talks, poster presentations, signature sessions and valuable networking opportunities for leaders in the multidisciplinary pain medicine space.
Farshad Ahadian, MD, immediate past president of AAPM, says, “As we look back on this year’s Annual Meeting, I am profoundly moved by the passion, dedication, and innovative spirit that has characterized our gathering. Celebrating 40 years of the American Academy of Pain Medicine is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to our collective commitment to advancing pain medicine for the betterment of patient care worldwide. This anniversary marks not only four decades of remarkable achievements but also the beginning of a new chapter in our journey.”
Charles E. Argoff, MD, president of AAPM, adds, “Stepping into the role of president this year, I am both humbled and energized by the opportunity to lead this esteemed organization into its next chapter. The legacy of AAPM, particularly as we celebrate our 40th anniversary, is a powerful foundation upon which we will build an even more dynamic and impactful future. Looking ahead, I believe we are poised to spearhead transformative initiatives, embrace emerging technologies, and foster a global community of practice that will continue to shape the future of pain management. Together, we stand on the cusp of an exciting era filled with potential and promise for our field.”
Learning from the Experts: Keynote Highlight
A significant highlight was the keynote address by Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, MD, MPH, the current president of the American Medical Association (AMA), titled “Physician Leadership in Advancing Digital Health and Ending the Overdose Epidemic.” Dr. Ehrenfeld’s insights into digital health strategies to combat the overdose epidemic provided attendees with valuable perspectives on the role we all play in navigating these critical areas.
In addition, the meeting featured presentations from top experts in pain medicine, who shared innovative solutions and insights that will help shape the future of patient care. Attendees learned about the latest advancements and research findings, equipping them with knowledge to implement cutting-edge solutions in their practice.
The 3rd Annual Innovation Challenge
Menda Health along with AAPM leadership and Innovation Challenge co-founders.
The 3rd Annual Innovation Challenge, presented by AAPM + MIT Hacking Medicine and Supported by Saluda Medical and Enable Health, with an educational grant from Abbott showcased groundbreaking ideas in pain medicine in this unique Shark Tank-style pitch competition.
Menda Health beat out dozens of startups and early-stage companies to take home the grand prize. They also took home the M.M. Sadipe Entrepreneurship Award, offered in memory of Dr. Kayode Williams’s late father-in-law, a lifelong entrepreneur, and the inaugural Audience Choice Award, in honor of Dr. Subash Jain, voted on by Innovation Challenge attendees.
Menda Health was founded to help others get answers and regain their life from chronic pain by providing virtual video sessions with a licensed pain therapist using an evidence-based neuroplasticity approach.
To win, each of the five finalists had just five minutes to pitch followed by three minutes for questions from the judging panel made up of pain medicine experts, seasoned entrepreneurs, and potential investors.
“Reflecting on this year’s Innovation Challenge, we are once again reminded of the incredible potential that emerges when bright minds converge on the challenges of pain medicine. The ingenuity and creativity displayed by all participants not only underscore the vibrant future of our field but also highlight the crucial role of innovation in advancing patient care,” says Innovation Challenge founder and Co-chair Salman Hirani, MD.
Fellow Co-chair of the Innovation Challenge Brian Mayrsohn, MD, adds, “We are consistently inspired by the dedication to excellence and the collaborative spirit that has been the hallmark of this event. We look forward to seeing how these innovative solutions will shape the future of pain management, driving forward our mission to alleviate suffering and enhance the quality of life for our patients through innovation.”
Click here to read the full Innovation Challenge recap.
The 40th Anniversary Celebration: A Night to Remember
The 40th Anniversary Celebration was a resounding highlight of this year’s conference. Attendees gathered to commemorate four decades of advancements, achievements, and camaraderie within the AAPM community.
The evening was filled with a blend of reflection, recognition, and forward-looking excitement. Guests enjoyed a memorable dinner, engaged in meaningful networking, and even took to the dance floor. This celebratory event not only honored the past but also strengthened bonds among peers, setting an enthusiastic tone for the future of AAPM.
It was a testament to the vibrant community that the AAPM has nurtured over the years, marking the anniversary not just as a milestone, but as a springboard for the continued mission to advance pain medicine.
Comprehensive Pain Management Discussions
The 40th Annual Meeting also featured in-depth discussions on acute pain, pain management in complex surgical patients, and wellness and self-management techniques for providers. These sessions, along with unique flash talks and poster presentations, emphasized a holistic approach to pain management, offering practical strategies to address the complex needs of patients.
Networking and Mentorship
The Annual Meeting provided unparalleled networking and mentorship opportunities, enabling attendees to expand their professional networks and enhance their expertise in pain medicine. Through engaging with peers and leaders, participants forged valuable connections that will bolster their careers and patient care efforts.
Continuing Medical Education
Attendees also had the opportunity to earn AMA credits, with educational sessions designed to both impart cutting-edge knowledge and meet continuing medical education requirements. This aspect of the meeting ensures that providers remain at the forefront of the field.
Moving Forward
The success of this year’s 40th Annual AAPM Meeting is a testament to the dedication and innovation of the pain medicine community. The knowledge shared, connections made, and experiences gained during the meeting are just the beginning. We encourage all participants to continue leveraging the AAPM’s resources for education, networking, and professional development.
As we look ahead, the AAPM remains committed to improving patient care and advancing the field of pain medicine. We eagerly anticipate next year’s meeting and the opportunity to celebrate new achievements in this dynamic and crucial field.
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