The National Organization of Rheumatology Managers (NORM) is a relatively new organization and we are comprised of members from across the country who are involved daily in the care of patients with rheumatologic disorders.  We are a subsidiary of the Coalition of State Rheumatology Organizations (CSRO).

We held a 1 1/2 day meeting in September 2005 that, as far as anyone knows, was the first one exclusively for Rheumatology Managers. There were more than fifty (50) managers and physicians in attendance. Everyone was delighted to be able to share rheumatology specific management experiences with colleagues. As a result of that meeting and the desire to fill the void, the National Organization of Rheumatology Managers was formed.

Our 2006 Conference in St. Petersburg, FL saw a thirty-five percent (35%) increased in membership for our organization.

The 2007 Conference was held on September 28th and 29th in St. Louis, MO. Norm continued its growth pattern this year with 75 attendees as well as 18 exhibitors. The conference continued the tradition of providing managers/administrators and managing physicians with opportunities to discuss practice management issues with colleagues. Our expert panelist provided information on the secrets to successful communication with work teams, preparing your office for a disaster, financial planning, benchmarking, and many other management topics.

2008 saw unprecedented growth for NORM with 115 members, and 100 attendees at the September 12 & 13th meeting in Scottsdale, AZ. This year the conference also grew in length with a full day of seminars on Friday, and ¾ of day of seminars on Saturday. NORM membership also participated in a benchmarking survey with a recap of the results presented at the meeting.

The NORM Executive Board is developing the agenda for the 2009 meeting to be held September 25 & 26, 2009 at the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort at Grande Dunes. As always we are basing our planning on the feedback offered by the previous conference attendees. This year we hope to incorporate breakout sessions on Friday. Please mark the date on your calendar and plan to join us for another exciting conference.