Navigating the path of progress: The OMERACT 2023 emerging leaders program

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology clinical trials
• Patient-centered outcome research
• Leadership development in scientific organizations

Background:

• The Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Clinical Trials (OMERACT) Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is designed to foster leadership within the OMERACT community.
• The program aims to equip participants with the expertise needed to guide OMERACT's future direction.
• This publication reviews the significance and impact of the ELP, focusing on the 2023 iteration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of the ELP in developing leadership excellence.
• To assess the impact of the ELP on OMERACT's evolution.
• To report on the outcomes and lessons learned from the 2023 OMERACT ELP.

Main Methods:

• Program improvements for 2023 were informed by findings from the 2018 ELP report.
• Participant engagement was quantified through workshop attendance and digital communication (WhatsApp).
• Feedback on program strengths, weaknesses, and future enhancements was gathered via anonymous surveys and focus groups.

Main Results:

• The 2023 ELP demonstrated high engagement with 9 participants, 96% attendance, and 154 WhatsApp interactions.
• All program components received high ratings, particularly the 'Psychological Safety' and 'Methodology/Process/Politics' workshops.
• Key suggestions for future ELPs included enhanced networking, practical skill development, and a focus on organizational advancement.

Conclusions:

• The 2023 OMERACT ELP was positively received, effectively addressing prior areas for improvement.
• New educational elements were valued, underscoring the importance of psychological safety.
• The ELP strengthens OMERACT by cultivating skilled leaders aligned with its core values, crucial for sustaining global influence in patient-centered outcome research.