The purpose of this lecture series is to provide up to date information on disease states, how to preform a necessary work up and to have a better understanding of the medications and treatments used to care for rheumatology patients. Attendees should gain a better understanding of how to co-manage their patients along with the rheumatologist.
Clinical Approach to Rheumatic Disease
Identify patients that require a rheumatology referral and those that can be managed by their primary care.
Approach to Inflammatory Arthritis
Identify inflammatory arthritis and when to refer to rheumatology
Osteoporosis
Identify when to treat as well as best first line options for individual patients.
Gout
Better manage acute flairs and improve confidence with chronic gout treatment
Back Pain: Is it Inflammatory?
Distinguish between mechanical vs inflammatory back pain.
Lupus
Recognize the clinical presentation of lupus and how to start a work up.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Evaluate, identify and co-manage RA patients
Polymyalgia Rheumatica and GCA
Identify patients, understand work up as well as new treatment options.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment to take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
BIAS FREE CME - No Commercial Support was provided for this CME activity.
Faculty
Nicole D. Melendez, MD, FACR
Affiliate Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine (Voluntary Faculty)
USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
Tampa, FL
Nicole D Melendez, MD graduated from St Matthews University, completed her Internal Medicine residency at the University of Missouri- Columbia and her Rheumatology fellowship at Louisiana State University. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. She has been practicing Rheumatology in the Tampa Bay area since 2011.
She has a very active practice and is also involved in clinical research. She's been voluntary faculty at the University of South Florida in the Department of Rheumatology since 2015, and she has a personal interest in nutrition and diet and its impact on rheumatologic disease states.
Accreditation
In support of improving patient care, Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Credit Designation for Physicians: Continuing Education, Inc. designates this live activity for 10 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Osteopathic Physicians: This program is eligible for Category 2 credit with the American Osteopathic Association (AOA).
US or Canadian Family Physicians: Please let us know if you require AAFP Prescribed Credits.
Credit Designation for Nurses: Continuiung Education, Inc. designates this continuing nursing education activity for 10 contact hours.
Accredited status does not imply endorsement by Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® or ANCC of any commercial products displayed or used with an activity.
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada:
Through an agreement between the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, medical practitioners participating in the Royal College MOC Program may record completion of accredited activities registered under the ACCME’s “CME in Support of MOC” program in Section 3 of the Royal College’s MOC Program.
College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) has a reciprocal credit reporting agreement with the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Prescribed credits can be claimed as the equivalent number of certified credits, and Elective credits can be claimed as the equivalent number of non-certified credits.
Members of the CFPC may claim up to 50 credits per five-year cycle from Physician's Recognition Award (PRA) Category 1 credits. Any additional credits are eligible as non-certified credits.
Credit Designation for Pharmacists: This knowledge-based activity is approved for 10 hours of pharmacy continuing education credit.
ITINERARY
DATE
PORT OF CALL
ARRIVE
DEPART
Mon Dec 06
Tampa, Florida
-
5:00 pm
Tue Dec 07
At Sea - Cruising
-
-
Wed Dec 08
Nassau, Bahamas
8:00 am
5:00 pm
Thu Dec 09
At Sea - Cruising
-
-
Fri Dec 10
Tampa, Florida
7:00 am
-
PORTS OF CALL
Tampa, Florida
While many voyages begin and end in Tampa, to view this city as a mere point of transit is to miss the overture to a truly remarkable Floridian experience. For the discerning professional seeking a seamless transition from the rigors of daily practice to the restorative rhythm of a sea journey, Tampa and its surrounding Cultural Coast offer the perfect prelude and postlude. We strongly encourage you to bookend your cruise with a few days here, allowing the region’s unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty to fully unfold.
Your exploration can begin just steps from the cruise terminal. Downtown Tampa has undergone a remarkable renaissance, centered around its stunning Riverwalk. This 2.6-mile pedestrian path traces the Hillsborough River, connecting a string of cultural gems. You can stroll or rent a water taxi to visit the Tampa Museum of Art, with its impressive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, or the Tampa Bay History Center, which offers a fascinating narrative of the region’s past, from its indigenous roots to its role as a Gilded Age port. For a more relaxed pace, find a seat at Sparkman Wharf, an outdoor waterfront food hall where you can sample innovative cuisine from shipping container kitchens while watching the ships glide by.
No visit to Tampa is complete without immersing yourself in the living history of Ybor City. A short, charming ride on the TECO Line Streetcar transports you to this National Historic Landmark District, once known as the “Cigar Capital of the World.” As you walk the brick-paved streets, the neighborhood’s rich Cuban, Spanish, and Italian heritage is palpable. Listen for the crowing of the wild chickens—descendants of those kept by early residents—and admire the ornate wrought-iron balconies. The scent of roasting coffee and hand-rolled cigars still hangs in the air. For an essential culinary experience, visit the century-old Columbia Restaurant. A sprawling institution adorned with Spanish tiles and fountains, it’s the perfect place to savor an authentic Cuban sandwich and a pitcher of sangria.
While Tampa offers plenty to occupy your time, its true strength as a destination lies in its proximity to the artistic enclave of St. Petersburg. A 30-minute drive across the bay brings you to a city that has become a global destination for art lovers. The undisputed crown jewel is The Dalí Museum. The stunning geodesic glass structure is a work of art in itself, housing the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s works outside of Europe. It’s an immersive, thought-provoking experience that will stay with you long after you leave. Beyond Dalí, St. Pete’s vibrant arts scene flourishes. Discover the luminous glass sculptures at the Chihuly Collection, explore the European masters at the Museum of Fine Arts, or simply wander the Central Arts District to admire the dozens of large-scale, world-class murals that turn the city’s walls into a dynamic outdoor gallery.
Downtown St. Petersburg is a destination in its own right, with a walkable waterfront park system culminating in the magnificent St. Pete Pier. This modern marvel extends into the bay, offering fishing spots, public art, a marketplace, and several excellent restaurants with panoramic water views. The city’s core is a lively grid of independent boutiques, craft breweries, and sophisticated dining options that cater to every palate.
For those whose idea of rejuvenation involves sun, sand, and saltwater, the Gulf Coast beaches are magnificent and easily accessible. While many flock to the lively shores of Clearwater Beach, we recommend the more serene experience of Fort De Soto Park. Named America’s Top Beach on multiple occasions, it’s a rare jewel—a vast, protected park with miles of pristine white sand, free from the visual clutter of high-rise hotels and condos. It’s a place for quiet reflection, bird watching, and soaking in unspoiled nature. St. Pete Beach offers a classic resort-town feel, with historic hotels and beachfront cafes perfect for watching the sunset.
Should your schedule allow for a more extended stay, the cultural treasures of Sarasota are just an hour to the south. Here, you can explore the Ca' d'Zan, the palatial Venetian-Gothic mansion of circus magnate John Ringling, and the adjacent John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which holds a world-class collection of European paintings. And for the young or young-at-heart in your party, the theme parks of Orlando, including Walt Disney World, are a manageable 75-minute drive away, making for an easy day trip.
Tampa is far more than a port; it is the anchor of a diverse and culturally rich region. It offers the ideal environment to decompress before your voyage and to savor your vacation memories before returning home. Plan to stay a while; you’ll find it’s a destination that truly merits its own chapter in your travelogue.
At Sea - Cruising
Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau is a bustling hub, and your best day here requires a plan to navigate beyond the immediate, often-crowded port area. While it has its share of tourist traps, genuine Bahamian character is well within reach for those who know where to look.
For a dose of history, a short walk leads to the Queen's Staircase, a remarkable 66-step passage carved from solid limestone by enslaved people in the 18th century. It ascends to Fort Fincastle, which offers commanding views of the island. For a more refined local taste, the John Watling's Distillery on the historic Buena Vista Estate offers tours and tastings in a setting far removed from the downtown hustle.
If a classic beach day is your priority, we advise looking beyond the nearest options. A taxi to the quieter sands of Cable Beach or, for a more curated experience, a day pass to one of the major resorts on Paradise Island will provide the tranquil, turquoise-water escape you envision. These passes grant access to pristine private beaches and high-quality amenities, turning a potentially hectic port day into a truly relaxing one.
For the most authentic local flavor, take a taxi to Arawak Cay (known as 'The Fish Fry'). This is where Bahamians go for fresh conch salad, fried snapper, and a vibrant, casual atmosphere. It’s a world away from the port-side buffets and offers a true taste of the islands.
Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas
PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment to take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Prices below are for the full cruise including meals and evening entertainment
Suite/Deluxe
Grand Suite - 1 Bedroom (GS)
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with double sofa bed. Bathroom with tub and double sink. Concierge service. Stateroom: 385 sq. ft. Balcony: 106 sq. ft.
1,807.00 per person
Call: 800-422-0711 and we'll find the best value for you.
Junior Suite with Balcony (J3)
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with sofa bed and private bathroom with tub. Stateroom: 299 sq. ft. Balcony: 41 sq. ft.
1,194.00 per person
Call: 800-422-0711 and we'll find the best value for you.
Suite/DeluxeOwner's Suite - 1 Bedroom (OS) Queen-sided bed, bathroom with whirlpool tub, double sink and bidet. Separate living area with a double sofa bed. Stateroom: 512 sq. ft. Balcony 57 sq. ft.
Suite/DeluxeOwner's Suite - 2 Bedroom (OT) Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to Royal King (one room with third and fourth Pullman beds), two bathrooms (one with shower, one with bathtub), living area with double sofa bed, private balcony, and concierge service. Stateroom: 584 sq. ft. Balcony: 151 sq. ft.
Suite/DeluxeRoyal Suite (RS) Bedroom with king-size bed, and private bathroom with tub, double sink and bidet. Private balcony, living room with queen-size sofa bed and baby grand piano. Stateroom: 1,101 sq. ft. Balcony: 106 sq. ft.
Suite/DeluxeOceanview Suite - 2 Bedroom (no balcony) (VT) Two bedrooms. Master has two twin beds that convert to Royal King and bathroom with tub. Additional bedroom with twin bed and two Pullman beds. Living room with double sofabed and second bathroom with shower. Stateroom: 584 sq. ft.
Oceanview with Balcony (4D)
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom. Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. Balcony: 41 sq. ft.
322.00 per person
Call: 800-422-0711 and we'll find the best value for you.
BalconySpacious Oceanview with Balcony (1B) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 204 sq. ft. Balcony: 41 sq. ft.
BalconyOceanview with Balcony (1D) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom. Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. Balcony: 20 sq. ft.
BalconySpacious Oceanview with Balcony (2B) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 204 sq. ft. Balcony: 41 sq. ft.
BalconyOceanview with Balcony (2D) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom. Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. Balcony: 20 sq. ft.
BalconySpacious Oceanview with Balcony (3B) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 204 sq. ft. Balcony: 41 sq. ft.
BalconySpacious Oceanview with Balcony (4B) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 204 sq. ft. Balcony: 41 sq. ft.
BalconyOceanview with Balcony (5D) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom. Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. Balcony: 20 sq. ft.
BalconyOceanview with Balcony (6D) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and bathroom. Stateroom: 179 sq. ft. Balcony: 20 sq. ft.
Oceanview Stateroom (2N)
Two twin beds that convert to Royal King and private bathroom. Stateroom: 155 sq. ft.
200.00 per person
Call: 800-422-0711 and we'll find the best value for you.
OutsideUltra Spacious Oceanview (1K) Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, additional bunk beds in separate area, separate sitting area with sofa bed, and private bathroom with shower. Stateroom: 265 sq. ft.
InsideStudio Interior (2W) Full size bed and full bathroom. Single occupancy stateroom, no single supplement required. Can sleep up to 1. Stateroom: 108 sq. ft.
Port Charges, Taxes & Fees of 244.63 are not included in the per person fares displayed above.
A deposit of 100.00 per person is due to reserve your stateroom.
3rd/4th in Stateroom - Please call to secure the best possible pricing
Cruise pricing is presented per person, based double occupancy of the stateroom, following industry practice. Pricing presented above is listed accordingly to allow easy comparison for the stateroom categories displayed. Our agents always provide 'total cost' pricing disclosing all particulars before you make any commitment.
COMPETITIVE PRICING PROMISE: We will match any price currently offered by the cruise line; this promise includes their short-term, promotional rates. As a value-added organizer of meetings at sea, however, we do not seek to compete with 'cruise discounters,' 'travel clubs,' or 'distressed inventory' sales operations.
PRICING SUBJECT TO CHANGE:
Because this sailing is departing soon, no fares are displayed above; Call us to request a quote of current, market-rate fares. Those fares, the same as offered directly by the cruise line, are subject to change at any time until held with a deposit or full payment of the fare. Market rates are capacity and revenue controlled, do fluctuate, and can be withdrawn without notice.
CANCELLATION PENALTY POLICY WILL APPLY: We recommend Travel Insurance to protect your investment from unexpected, late cancellations.
Cruise Cancellation Policy:Late Cancellation policies vary by cruise line, itinerary and length of cruise. When reserving your stateroom, please congirm the policy applicable to this cruise with one of our agents.
Course Fee Cancellation Policy: 30+ days before sailing date - 75% Refund ; 7-29 days before sailing date - 50% Refund; Less than 7 days before sailing date - No Refund
FUEL SUPPLEMENT: During periods of unusual oil price volatility, cruiselines may implement a fuel surcharge at any time prior to sailing.
Protect Your Trip with Allianz Travel Insurance
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can give you flexibility and support when your trip doesn’t go quite as planned. From unexpected flight issues to covered trip cancellations, travel emergencies, and more, travel insurance can help you manage unforeseen events that may impact your trip—giving you peace of mind from the moment you book your trip through your return home.
For an instant quote:
Simply provide a few short details about your trip
Whether you’re planning your next trip or you recently booked one, travel insurance can help smooth over many unexpected travel glitches—while putting your mind at ease, knowing you’re off the hook for covered expenses that could arise from them.
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can provide you benefits and professional support when a covered situation comes up before or during your trip. The following examples may qualify for benefits:
Cancelling your trip after unexpectedly becoming too sick to travel
Taking care of a sick or injured traveling companion
Having to end your trip early due to a family emergency
Dealing with a flight delay or cancellation
Needing to buy personal items if your luggage is lost or stolen
Missing your cruise departure after a covered flight delay
You also can contact our travel protection partner Allianz Global Assistance’s 24/7, award-winning customer service for on-the-go assistance with issues like a medical emergency, replacing your lost passport, or making reservations around the world. To be eligible for a time-sensitive waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusions, purchase your travel insurance plan within 14 days of initial trip deposit (other purchase requirements and conditions apply). Specific plan benefits may vary. Please review your plan details for more information.
What Can Travel Insurance Help Protect?
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can protect you before and during your trip—keeping you, your loved ones, and your travel budget safer. Benefits vary by plan, and these are brief descriptions. Please read your plan documents for details.
TRIP CANCELLATION
Reimburses your prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to a covered reason, such as you, a family member, or traveling companion experiencing a covered illness or injury. Examples include:
A doctor says you or a traveling companion is too sick to fly
Your parent or child requires hospitalization
You need to attend the birth of a family member’s child
You have a traffic accident (not breakdown) on the way to the airport
A storm shuts down your airport for 24 hours or more
TRIP INTERRUPTION
Reimburses your unused, non-refundable travel expenses and increased transportation costs during your trip if you have to return home early due to a covered reason, for instance when a family member has a qualifying medical emergency and needs your care. Examples include:
You have a covered illness or injury and a doctor says you must return home
A family member has a qualifying injury and needs your care
A covered emergency, like a fire or flood, makes your home uninhabitable
TRAVEL DELAY
If you have a covered delay while traveling, travel insurance can reimburse you for meals, accommodations, and transportation expenses when your trip is delayed for a minimum number of consecutive hours for a covered reason. Minimum number of hours varies by plan.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE
Reimburses your expenses related to covered medical and dental emergencies* that might occur on your trip. This benefit can be especially helpful if you have a covered emergency outside the United States, as most health insurance policies won’t cover you outside the country. Examples include:
You slip and break your ankle while sightseeing
You get food poisoning while sampling the local cuisine
You lose a filling and need immediate dental treatment*
*A sublimit and maximum apply for this benefit. Check your plan documents for details.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
Arranges and pays for medically necessary transportation following a covered injury or illness to the nearest appropriate medical facility to receive care and get you home after treatment.
BAGGAGE LOSS, DAMAGE, or THEFT
Reimburses the replacement of your lost, damaged, or stolen luggage and personal items while traveling.
BAGGAGE DELAY
Reimburses essential items purchased during your trip if your baggage is delayed for a minimum number of hours (varies by plan).
CHANGE FEE
Reimburses fees if you need to change your flight itinerary due to a covered reason.
24-HOUR ASSISTANCE
Provides around-the-clock support during your trip. Allianz Global Assistance’s staff of multilingual problem solvers can help you with medical, legal, and travel-related emergencies whenever they happen. Medical assistance may include, but is not limited to:
Medical triage with referrals to local prescreened medical providers
Ongoing medical monitoring
Payment guarantee
Emergency medical transportation
Additional services for travel-related emergencies can help with:
When you purchase any Allianz Travel Insurance plan, you automatically get 15 days (or more, depending on your state of residence) to review your policy documents. Within that period, you can cancel your plan for a full refund if you’re not satisfied, as long as you haven’t filed a claim or departed on your trip.
Need Help Along the Way?
Contact Allianz Global Assistance’s award-winning team of travel experts. Call anytime for assistance navigating travel mishaps overseas or in the U.S.—or help with everything from reporting lost baggage to locating emergency medical treatment. They can also help you replace passports, refer you to legal assistance, secure cash from home in case of emergency, and guarantee payment when you need to be admitted to a hospital, in some instances.
Contact Allianz Global Assistance
Phone (24/7): 1-800-284-8300(within the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) 1-804-281-5700(outside of the U.S., call collect)
File or Track a Claim
It’s easy and convenient to file and track a claim, upload documents, and more online. Start your claim using your email address or policy number.
If you need to update your travel insurance plan, such as adjusting the dates of your plan to reflect itinerary changes, please contact us or manage your plan online so your plan reflects your entire itinerary and provides the right amount of protection for your travels.
Allianz Global Assistance is a world leader in travel insurance and assistance, helping millions of travelers across the globe every year. Allianz Global Assistance is owned by Allianz SE, the world’s largest diversified insurance company. For over 100 years, Allianz SE has helped protect important milestones in American history, insuring the Wright Brothers’ first flight and Golden Gate Bridge construction.
Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply including for pre-existing medical conditions. Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best’s 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at 800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or customerservice@allianzassistance.com.
Explore Tampa's attractions easily from our waterfront hotel
Experience urban convenience and elevated comfort at Tampa Marriott Water Street in Florida. This beautifully-redesigned waterfront hotel sits adjacent to the convention center in Tampa's dynamic downtown just steps from the Tampa Riverwalk, Florida Aquarium, Amalie Arena and the evolving Sparkman Wharf. Step into the Great Room of our upgraded hotel to discover the wealth of amenities that await you.
Take a dip in our rooftop pool, work out in our state-of-the-art fitness center, engage in water activities such as paddleboarding or dine in our inviting Tampa Riverwalk restaurants. Unpack in spacious accommodations with streamlined, modern layouts, sophisticated decor, plush bedding and private balconies with water or skyline views.
Ask your CEI agent for details and availability.
Questions?
Call us at 800.422.0711 (US & Canada)
Or +1-727-526-1571
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
