Dr. David Cheng, a physical medicine and pain management physician at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, was recently selected to participate in the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) Leadership Program. Dr. Cheng is one of only 10 AAPM&R Members selected to participate in the 2017-2019 class.

In 2013, AAPM&R launched the Academy Leadership Program to identify and develop ten early-career physiatrists, to prepare them to engage in Academy volunteerism and assume future leadership positions.

"I am humbled and excited to be selected for the AAPM&R Academy Leadership Program. Outside of my clinical duties, I feel passionate about patient advocacy and health policy. Being well-informed and engaged is crucial to ensure patient access to high quality and affordable healthcare. I am thrilled for this opportunity," said Dr. Cheng.

Selected individuals will be taken through a 2-year curriculum that introduces them to association leadership, strategic planning, media skills, advocacy, and volunteer leadership. The curriculum combines facilitated sessions, peer discussion, and connection with experts to help facilitate leadership skills development.