The CRA aims to ensure we’re making decisions in the best interests of the association and our members regarding future conference planning.  After much deliberation and careful consideration, we have decided to proceed with a VIRTUAL-ONLY 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting. 

There are a number of factors that support this decision, first and foremost being the safety and well-being of CRA members, their patients, and our extended rheumatology community. As a medical association, we take this ethical obligation very seriously.  With the uncertainty around future COVID-19 outbreaks, planning to safely host an in-person conference for over 700 medical professionals would be both challenging and potentially irresponsible.  Aside from health, there are a number of other risk implications that this decision will mitigate including contractual obligations and financial risk, operational planning resources, conference logistics and sub-optimal attendance of delegates, industry, speakers, and staff.  In a recent survey of the membership, over 70% indicated they cannot commit to an in-person conference this February, and as responsible stewards of the CRA’s resources, it is more financially prudent to make this decision proactively.

The Annual Scientific Meeting Program Committee, Residents’ Pre-Course and Review Course Committees remain steadfast in their commitment to deliver a robust scientific program to meet your educational priorities.  We recognize that in addition to educational content, the ASM provides valuable networking opportunities to conference delegates and the CRA is committed to presenting a virtual platform that will support a creative and unique networking experience. We look forward to sharing this inaugural virtual experience with you!

The CRA is confident that this is the right decision made at the right time.  We’d like to thank you in advance for your understanding and will share more information regarding the virtual conference program and schedule as it becomes available. The 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting theme is Collaboration, Resilience and Advancement, guiding principles for the year ahead.

We look forward to seeing our rheumatology community, our colleagues, and our friends online this coming February!  

Aug 10, 2020 Abstract Submission Opens	Oct 9, 2020  Abstract Submission Deadline (5:00 pm PT)	Nov 23, 2020 CRA Membership Renewal Opens
Nov 30, 2020 ASM Registration Opens	Jan 18, 2021 ASM Early Bird Registration Closes (11:59 pm ET)	Jan 31, 2021 CRA Membership Early Bird Registration Closes (11:59 pm ET)
Feb 1, 2021 ASM Registration Closes (11:59 pm ET)	Feb 24-27, 2021 Annual Scientific Meeting