Dr. Scott Laker Concludes Transformative Year as AAPM&R President
Guiding more than 8,000 physiatrists nationwide, Laker’s 2025 presidency strengthened advocacy, community, and the future of rehabilitation medicine
Feb 9, 2026
Scott Laker, MD, Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, Adult Health, CU School of Medicine; Senior Medical Director for CU Medicine; and Professor of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, has concluded his term as 2025 President of the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AAPM&R): the national medical society representing more than 8,000 physiatrists across the United States.
Dr. Laker delivered his presidential plenary at the AAPM&R Annual Assembly, held October 22–25 in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he reflected on a year defined by advocacy, member support, and advancements in the specialty. The meeting also marked the first time the Assembly was held in Salt Lake City and represented the largest gathering of physiatrists in the world.
“There is no other place where you can be surrounded by people who truly understand what you do, why it matters, and how deeply it impacts lives,” Dr. Laker noted in his keynote address to the assembly.
Championing Physiatrists and Strengthening the Specialty
Throughout his presidency, Dr. Laker emphasized AAPM&R’s commitment to ensuring physiatrists have the tools, resources, and visibility needed to meet rising challenges in healthcare.
He highlighted a year of significant advocacy wins, including protecting reimbursement, safeguarding scope of practice, and advancing prior authorization reform.
“One of the most important responsibilities of our Academy is to ensure that the voice of PM&R is heard at every level of decision making… This year, your Academy has been relentless in defending and advancing our specialty,” says Dr. Laker.
Key accomplishments under his leadership included:
- Helping secure a positive update to the Medicare conversion factor for 2026
- Supporting bipartisan legislation to reduce prior authorization delays
- Protecting access to telehealth services
- Ensuring continued investment in disability and rehabilitation research
- Joining national specialty coalitions to support responsible pain care for all patients
“These changes remind us of the power of speaking in unison with one voice and as one Academy,” Dr. Laker stated.
A Focus on Community, Mentorship, and the Next Generation
Dr. Laker placed special emphasis on strengthening the PM&R community, including support for early-career physiatrists, and expanded leadership development opportunities.
“Our Academy’s greatest strength has always been its members… When we dedicate our time and resources to supporting early career members, we are not only shaping the future of physiatry—we are cultivating the next generation of pioneers and leaders.”
The 2025 Assembly welcomed more than 1,020 medical students, residents, and fellows, highlighting the specialty’s growing visibility and appeal.
He also recognized leaders across PM&R, including Dr. Amy Houtrow, recipient of the prestigious Frank H. Krusen, MD, Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating her contributions to pediatric rehabilitation and health equity.
Celebrating the PM&R Community
Dr. Laker highlighted what makes AAPM&R a professional home for so many. “This Annual Assembly is about coming home… our Academy is more than a professional society, it is our community, support system, and professional family.”
He emphasized the value of connections made at the Assembly — from hands on learning labs to hallway conversations and mentorship moments that “cannot be captured in sessions or schedules.”
A Year of Service and Gratitude
In his closing remarks, Dr. Laker thanked the membership, volunteers, and staff who make the Academy’s work possible.
“This year has shown me again and again the strength of our specialty. We are resilient, innovative, and united by a shared mission to improve lives through rehabilitation medicine.”
He also shared personal gratitude for his family, noting their support throughout his career and leadership.
Looking Forward
As Dr. Laker transitions out of the presidency, he leaves behind a year marked by strategic advocacy, strengthened community, and unwavering commitment to the future of PM&R.
“There is no place like this Academy. There is no place like this community. And there is no place like PM&R.”
His leadership not only elevated the voice of physiatrists nationally but also showcased the impact and excellence of the University of Colorado Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation on a national stage.