In 2001, at the annual meeting of the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC), a core group of rehabilitation therapists met to discuss how rehabilitation could have a greater presence at the CMSC annual meeting. The primary objectives of the group were to increase participation, communication and representation of rehabilitation in the management of people with MS.
Throughout the remainder of 2001 and the beginning of 2002 a more formal structure was put in place and the IOMSRT was born. The IOMSRT was formally accepted by the CMSC Board of Governors as a special interest group of the CMSC and the core group of therapists looked to expand membership.
Over the years, the IOMSRT has focused on the original primary objectives stated earlier and expanded into areas of disseminating and participating in research projects. It has become a wonderful networking opportunity for rehabilitation therapists working in the field of MS.
Since 2001, we have been successful in increasing participation and representation and the CMSC annual meeting. In addition, an improved network of communication has developed. However, the next step is to expand our message of the importance of rehabilitation in the management of a person living with MS. We will do this through dissemination of information through this website page which will include information on recent and ongoing research relevant to rehabilitation and MS. In addition, pertinent clinical information will be provided to include presentations on areas of rehabilitation, a bibliography and notices of upcoming meetings.
