This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive review of spinal anatomy, and the critical red flags associated with lower back pain. Participants will learn to distinguish the clinical presentations of various spinal pathologies such as lower back strains, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis. The session will also cover the diagnostic principles and management strategies for lower back pain within primary care settings. Through case studies and evidence-based approaches, attendees will gain practical insights into improving patient outcomes.  Objectives include: 

1. Review the basic anatomy of the spine.
2. Discuss the relationship between social determinants of health and low back pain.
3. Identify the red flags signs and symptoms associated with lower back pain.
4. Differentiate the pathology, epidemiology, and clinical presentation of the following diseases: Lower back strain/sprain, Herniated Nucleus Pulposus, Spinal stenosis, Cauda Equina Syndrome, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Scoliosis and Spondylolysis.
5. Explain the principles of diagnosis and management of lower back pain in primary care. 

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory condition that potentially can affect multiple organ systems. Due to scientific medical advances, morbidity and mortality associated with SLE has improved in recent decades. However, there is still much to do regarding early recognition and optimum treatment for this condition. Teams of health professionals, including PAs, from various medical specialties working together will yield best outcomes. The American College of Rheumatology is also updating treatment guidelines for lupus and lupus nephritis with expected publication in 2025. Recognizing the health disparities and how lupus affects persons of varying ethnicity is also important. This session will provide a review and update of diagnostics, treatment and monitoring approaches for SLE.  Objectives include: 

1. Outline the diagnostic criteria and differential diagnosis for SLE.
2. Analyze the social determinants of health that affect the diagnosis and treatment of persons with SLE.
3. Utilize basic approaches to management of SLE including steroids, DMARDs and biologics.
4. Perform routine monitoring for disease complications and comorbidities.

Diagnosing rheumatic disease can be difficult, but made easier by appropriately utilizing rheumatology specific laboratory testing. As a result, laboratory tests can be important diagnostic aids when used in conjunction with a good medical history and physical exam. Additionally, using laboratory tests to monitor rheumatic disease activity and tolerability of treatments for these conditions is essential for best outcomes. Helping patients with rheumatic disease understand the meaning of laboratory test results helps alleviate anxiety and bring peace of mind. Social determinants of health, including access to care and access to therapeutics, may affect the selection of rheumatic disease lab. This session will help participants better understand rheumatology laboratory tests commonly used in the care of patients with rheumatic disease. Concepts will be reinforced through correlation of the clinical utility of each test with the diagnosis of specific rheumatic diseases.  Objectives include: 

1. Select appropriate laboratory tests when evaluating patients with symptoms suggesting rheumatic conditions.
2. Analyze the social determinants of health that affect the selection of rheumatic disease laboratory.  
3. Interpret the results of laboratory tests used to diagnose and manage common rheumatic diseases.
4. Evaluate the appropriate clinical applications for laboratory test results used to diagnose and manage common rheumatic diseases.

This is case based audience response discussion about 10 conditions see in the primary care office that are regularly referred to the Sports Medicine Provider. We are looking at what is appropriate for referral, what studies should be done before the referral is done.  Objectives inlcude: 

1. Identify pitfalls and pearls for common referrals to sports medicine physicians from primary care providers.
2. At the conclusion of the lecture, the  primary care providers will be able to utilize the tips on evaluating common sports medicine conditions prior to referring to sports medicine.
3. At the conclusion of the lecture, the participants will understand the ordering of radiologic and laboratory tests related to sports injuries.