Spring 2017 (Volume 27, Number 1)

Young Rheumatologists Love to FLIRT

By Janet Pope, MD, MPH, FRCPC

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Proudly, the CRA has taken the Future Leaders in Rheumatology (FLIRT) program under its wings. This is the third group of rheumatologists who are undertaking the program, which is a mentorship program designed for rheumatologists at an early career stage who are likely to become leaders in research, education, and or advocacy in Canada. There has already been one highly successful meeting, with another one booked for April 2017. There are 20 candidates enrolled, representing adult and pediatric rheumatology from across the country. Highlights to date include discussions on mentorship, promotion (for the academic group), and the delivery and critique of talks. Up next will be the communication wheel, time management and industry relations. The enthusiasm is palpable: Nearly all participants (96%) would recommend this program to others. Feedback reveals FLIRT is a resounding, unequivocal success.

Here are some of the comments we have received:
“Well organized and relevant”
“Excellent, timely and applicable talks”
“You made the most of our day”
“Wonderful experience for networking and leadership exercises”
“Well put together and great lectures and learning. Thank you for a wonderful session!”

We will need to keep an eye out for graduates of this two-year program who will represent the CRA of tomorrow.

Janet Pope, MD, MPH, FRCPC
Professor of Medicine, Division Head,
Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine,
St. Joseph’s Health Care, Western University
London, Ontario