First held in 2001, this growing meeting draws the best clinician scientists from around the world to present and partake in the scientific program, bringing together cutting-edge science from various disease fields related to clinical immunology. The diverse audience is made up of scientists, clinicians, and researchers interested in the broad-based implications of their work.

The FOCIS approach to clinical immunology is unique, concentrating on breaking down clinical barriers between specialties and focusing on the shared pathologies of diseases and conditions.

In addition to highlighting the best science in the field, the FOCIS Annual Meeting is an incubator for developing scientists and practitioners to meet with one another and representatives of the relevant biotech and pharmaceutical industries whose combined support is invaluable to the success of the field of clinical immunology.

Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of the FOCIS Annual Meeting, delegates should have gained:

1. The ability to discuss the current research and/or clinical topics relevant to the session topics,
2. A level of insight into the methods being used by researchers and practitioners,
3. A willingness and ability to apply the session topic to their research and/or clinical projects.

Needs Assessment:
The content of this educational program was determined by rigorous assessment of educational need including surveys, program feedback and expert faculty assessment.

Target Audience:
The target audience for this meeting is a multi-disciplinary group of individuals with an interest in clinical immunology including researchers, clinical investigators, clinicians, postdoctoral fellows, predoctoral students and graduate students.

Accreditation Statement:
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint sponsorship of the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and the Federation of Clinical Immunology Societies (FOCIS). The University of California, San Diego School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The University of California, San Diego School of Medicine designates this educational activity for a maximum of 31.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Cultural and Linguistic Competency:
This activity is in compliance with California Assembly Bill 1195 which requires continuing medical education activities with patient care components to include curriculum in the subjects of cultural and linguistic competency. Cultural competency is defined as a set of integrated attitudes, knowledge, and skills that enables health care professionals or organizations to care effectively for patients from diverse cultures, groups, and communities. Linguistic competency is defined as the ability of a physician or surgeon to provide patients who do not speak English or who have limited ability to speak English, direct communication in the patient.s primary language. Cultural and linguistic competency was incorporated into the planning of this activity. Additional resources on cultural and linguistic competency and information about AB1195 can be found on the UCSD CME website at cme.ucsd.edu.

© 2008 FOCIS