Dear distinguished colleagues and fellow members in rheumatology,
Thank you for your support and trust in electing me as President of the Taiwan Rheumatology Association.
I joined the Association at the age of 28. Over the past two decades, I have witnessed its steady growth and development under the leadership and dedication of successive presidents and senior mentors. I have always held deep gratitude and respect for their contributions. Precisely because of this journey, I am keenly aware that our Association now stands at a pivotal moment—one that calls for strategic adjustment and renewed direction.
Looking ahead, the Association must take a more proactive and assertive role in advocating for both our patients and our members. We must work toward reasonable revisions of reimbursement criteria for biologic therapies for major illnesses, ensuring that our members’ expertise and dedication receive the recognition they deserve. At the same time, in light of the current shortage of new recruits to our specialty, we can no longer afford to wait passively. We must actively engage medical students and residents in ways that resonate with them, enabling the younger generation to truly appreciate the prospects and potential of rheumatology. By expanding participation in our Annual Meeting and Spring Meeting, and by integrating structured training and funding support mechanisms, we aim to establish a sustainable, long-term system for talent development and professional mentorship.
In terms of international collaboration, I look forward to further strengthening substantive partnerships with colleagues in Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries. By establishing travel grants and encouraging young physicians to visit Taiwan for academic exchange, we can gradually build a durable and mutually supportive academic network. Regarding the allocation of our Association’s resources, we should focus more strategically on initiatives that hold the greatest long-term value. Our Annual Meeting and related activities should become more open and inclusive, encouraging members with innovative ideas to step forward so that we may work together to bring them to fruition. Through inter-association collaboration and proactive public engagement, we will also help society better understand the professional role and clinical value of rheumatology.
Over the next three years, I will devote my passion, energy, and unwavering commitment to the affairs of the Association, guiding it forward with steady progress and innovation grounded in tradition. Of course, this mission cannot be accomplished by one person alone—it requires the participation and support of every member. I sincerely invite your valuable suggestions and look forward to working hand in hand to build a stronger future for our Association.
Thank you all.
Sincerely,
President Taiwan Rheumatology Association
