The Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Disorders Advisory Group (RMDAG) is a branch of the AOTI concerned with the advancement of rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders through education, research, advocacy and practice. This supports and fosters excellence in the care of persons with arthritis, rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease. 

• The RMDAG committee holds regular teleconferences throughout the year and meets twice yearly for study days. We organise and host relevant educational opportunities and provide support, information and networking opportunities for occupational therapists working in rheumatology. 
• We have a core working group involved in ongoing projects to promote the role of Occupational Therapy in rheumatology.

Some of our current projects include: 

• Data gathering from national rheumatology sites to support the development of further Occupational Therapy posts in rheumatology in Ireland.
• Ongoing engagement and involvement in the National Clinical Programme for rheumatology and the HSE work stream for rheumatology. In 2022/23, 9.5 new OT posts were secured and are currently in recruitment. In addition, an integrated care OT vocational rehabilitation pilot service entitled ‘Workable Solutions’ has commenced at 3 sites nationally.
• Upcoming launch and distribution of the RMDAG-developed ‘Splinting guidelines for rheumatology Occupational Therapists’.

Past projects include:

• Development of a national referral prioritisation consensus document for rheumatology Occupational Therapy referrals.
• Development of a common rheumatology Occupational Therapy referral form, providing a template for national use.  
• Development and delivery of a 4-part webinar series on the Occupational Therapy management of RMDs. Feedback received was very positive showing an increase in the knowledge and confidence of those who attended.
• Increased visibility on social media through our X account ‘@AOTIrmdag’, which has allowed us to promote various projects, highlight recruitment opportunities and support Occupational Therapists working in rheumatology.