amdapp

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:19:17 GMT

Newsletter: April 2026

Attending the Policy Forum in Washington, DC with the Michael J. Fox Foundation was something I’ll carry with me for a long time. Being in a room filled with patients, care partners, clinicians, and advocates—all there for the same reason— was both powerful and deeply humbling . Hearing these stories brought a different kind of weight to the reality of Parkinson’s disease, one that goes far beyond what we see in the clinic. I spoke with a patient who has spent years navigating daily fluctuations and life with DBS—where even something as simple as getting through an airport now requires planning and accommodations. I met a widow who lost her husband to young-onset Parkinson’s just last summer, their future taken from them far too soon. I spoke with a young mother trying to imagine what life will look like as she raises her children while living with this disease. I also met a researcher whose funding was cut—delaying progress that so many are depending on. And over and over again, I heard how Parkinson’s quietly takes away careers, independence, and pieces of identity. It left me with a heavy but clear realization: this work matters —but right now, it’s not enough.

One of the biggest takeaways was how essential advocacy truly is. Change doesn’t only happen in clinics or research labs—it happens when these stories are brought directly to the people who shape policy. Walking to Capitol Hill alongside this community, sharing these experiences, and pushing for better funding, access, and support felt incredibly important. It was a reminder that one voice matters—but a collective voice is impossible to ignore. Walking away from the forum, it felt clear that telling these stories and staying engaged in advocacy isn’t separate from the clinical work—it’s a critical part of it. That’s how we create real change for everyone living with Parkinson’s disease. Because at the end of the day, I want to be able to look my patients in the eye and know—without question—that we left nothing on the table in the fight to help them.

With appreciation,

Cheryl Kyinn

On behalf of the AMDAPP Executive Committee

Read the full newsletter here.

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:08:52 GMT

Newsletter: March 2026

As we reflect on the incredible momentum coming out of our 2026 Annual Conference, one thing stands out above all else — YOU!

It was truly energizing to see so many familiar faces and to welcome a large number of new members to the AMDAPP community. The conversations, connections, and shared passion for improving care for people living with movement disorders are what make this organization special.

AMDAPP has grown into what it is today because of the dedication, engagement, and expertise of our members. Every person who attends a conference, joins a webinar, shares an idea, mentors a colleague, or simply shows up ready to learn and collaborate contributes to the strength of this community.

We are deeply grateful for each and every one of you. Your commitment to excellence and to one another is what continues to move AMDAPP forward.

Best of luck to our upcoming CMRD candidates!

For those preparing to take the CMRD exam next month, we wish you confidence and success as you take this important step in your professional journey.

For those planning ahead, the next CMRD testing window will be:

October 10–24, 2026

Application deadline: September 9, 2026

We encourage anyone considering certification to begin planning early and take advantage of available resources.

We want to hear from you.

As AMDAPP continues to grow, your feedback is more important than ever. What would you like to see improved, expanded, or added? Are there topics you want covered, new formats you’d like to try, networking opportunities you’d value, or ideas for future conferences?

Please don’t hold back — we welcome honest suggestions, big ideas, and creative thinking. This organization is built by its members, and your input helps shape where we go next.

Thank you for the work you do every day for your patients, your teams, and this field. Thank you for showing up, sharing your knowledge, and helping build a community that supports and inspires one another.

The growth and energy we’re seeing across AMDAPP is exciting — and it’s all because of you.

We’re grateful you’re part of this journey, and we’re looking forward to what we’ll accomplish together next.

With appreciation,

Jordan Harborth

On behalf of the AMDAPP Executive Committee

Read the full newsletter here .

AMDAPP 2026

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:41:08 GMT

AMDAPP 2026:

Energizing Education and an Unforgettable Community Experience

AMDAPP 2026 was truly an energizing, educational, and inspiring weekend for the Association of Movement Disorder Advanced Practice Providers (AMDAPP) community. From the very first session, there was a shared sense of excitement, being surrounded by APPs from across the country who are passionate about movement disorders and committed to delivering exceptional patient care. The CME programming once again delivered high-quality, insightful content that attendees can immediately bring back to their everyday clinical practice. Among the favorites this year were sessions on neuroimaging, neuroanatomy, atypical parkinsonism, and the always engaging video case presentations. The hands-on workshops for DBS and subcutaneous pump therapy were especially impactful, giving participants practical experience and renewed confidence in managing advanced therapies.

Beyond the outstanding education, what made AMDAPP 2026 so special was the connection. There was an unmistakable feeling of belonging—of being part of a vibrant, fun, and deeply supportive professional community. Conversations flowed easily between sessions as colleagues exchanged clinical pearls, shared challenges, and built new collaborations. For many, it was a reminder that while we may practice in different institutions across the country, we are united in purpose and passion.

The weekend also offered memorable opportunities to connect outside the lecture hall. The sunrise fun run brought early morning energy and camaraderie, while the haunted carriage ride through Charleston gave everyone a chance to unwind, laugh, and experience something unique together. These shared moments strengthened friendships and made the weekend even more meaningful.

AMDAPP 2026 did not disappoint. It recharged us, inspired us, and equipped us with knowledge we can use immediately in caring for our patients. Most importantly, it reinforced the strength of this growing community of advanced practice providers. Now, we’re already looking ahead with excitement—because if this year was any indication, AMDAPP 2027 in San Diego is going to be incredible.

Newsletter: February 2026

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:25:58 GMT

Newsletter: February 2026

We’re sharing everything you need to stay informed and connected—updates on the upcoming AMDAPP Conference , details for our GoCovri educational webinar , and a quick DBS programming survey we’d love your input on. Catch up on what’s ahead and help shape the resources we create for you.

Read the full newsletter here .

AMDAPP Statement on DOE Classification of Professional Degree

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 18:36:08 GMT

The U.S. Department of Education defines a professional degree program in its 2025 to 2026 regulatory framework as a program that “signifies both completion of the academic requirements for beginning practice in a given profession and a level of professional skill beyond that normally required for a bachelor’s degree; is generally at the doctoral level; requires at least six academic years of postsecondary education including at least two years at the post-baccalaureate level; and typically leads to licensure in a recognized profession.”

The Association of Movement Disorder Advanced Practice Providers (AMDAPP) is concerned that, as applied in recent rulemaking, this definition may exclude several graduate-level programs that educate clinicians who are central to movement-disorders care. These include programs in advanced nursing and nurse practitioner education, physician assistant education, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, audiology, public health and counseling and social work. These professions require advanced education, national certification, state licensure and clinical expertise that align closely with the criteria outlined in the Department’s definition.

Movement-disorders care relies on a multidisciplinary team with specialized training. Every one of the professions listed above contributes significantly to evaluating symptoms, managing treatment plans, providing rehabilitation therapies, supporting communication and swallowing and addressing cognitive, emotional and social needs. For individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and related conditions, these services are essential to maintaining safety, independence and quality of life.

If these graduate programs are not recognized as professional degree programs, students may face reduced access to federal financial aid. This may contribute to workforce shortages in areas of care where patient demand is already increasing. Longer wait times, fewer available specialists and limited access to comprehensive services are all potential consequences for patients and clinics across the country, at a time when movement-disorders care is already marked by a significant shortage of trained clinicians and growing challenges in timely access to care.
AMDAPP respectfully requests continued discussion and clarification around the Department’s classification of professional degree programs to ensure that it accurately reflects the training, licensure requirements and responsibilities of these essential healthcare professions. We encourage clinicians, educators, students and patient advocates to stay informed, to share information about how these changes may affect patient access and training and to communicate their concerns with their members of Congress so that the full impact on the movement-disorders community is understood.

Newsletter: October

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 19:41:12 GMT

Newsletter: October 2025

Aloha from Hawai‘i!

We had such a wonderful time at MDS in beautiful Hawai‘i, and it was truly a blessing to connect face-to-face with so many of our incredible colleagues!

Several of our members proudly presented posters — including Pam Zeilman, who shared her work on “Leveraging Duty-Based Cycles for DBS,” and our fearless leader Kelly Papesh, who presented on Empathy in Action for HCPs. We are so proud of everyone who showcased their projects and represented our community so well!

Our new International Working Group also met in person for the very first time, alongside our larger Allied Health group, as we began preparing for our upcoming November webinar.

One of the highlights of the week was our sunset cruise — an evening full of laughter, great food, and even better company (rain delay and all!).

We also held our Round Table Meeting with sponsors, where we celebrated our many accomplishments this year, including:

Launching our CME platform
Upgrading our website
Forming our International MDS Working Group
Hosting our annual CME conference
Growing our membership
Successfully launching the Movement Disorders Certification, with two testing cycles completed

We’ve come such a long way in a short time — and none of it would be possible without the support, ideas, and dedication of our amazing members. Your passion and willingness to contribute continue to drive our growth and success.

As we wrap up summer and head into the holiday season, we want to say mahalo for everything you do. Please reach out if you’d like to get more involved or share your ideas for AMDAPP’s future. Together, we’ll keep moving forward!

- Clarisse Goas, MSN, APRN-CNP

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

AMDAPP at MDS

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:35:34 GMT

AMDAPP at the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society Congress — A Success in Hawaii!

AMDAPP was thrilled to attend the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) Congress in beautiful Hawaii! The event was an incredible success, bringing together APPs, fellows, residents, and professionals from across the globe to share knowledge, research, and experiences in movement disorders.

Many of our AMDAPP Advanced Practice Providers attended the Congress and engaged with excellent content covering the latest updates in movement disorder care and research. We’re especially proud of our APPs who presented their posters during the live poster sessions—an inspiring showcase of dedication and expertise in advancing the field.

Beyond the sessions, the Congress provided wonderful opportunities for international networking and collaboration. AMDAPP was honored to host the Sunset Cruise, an evening event that fostered meaningful conversations and new connections among APPs, MDS colleagues, fellows, residents, and partners in the nonprofit movement disorder community. It was a true celebration of our shared commitment to patient care and professional growth.

We also hosted our Corporate Roundtable Meeting with industry partners, where we discussed new ideas and collaborations. Our partners expressed great enthusiasm about partnering with AMDAPP on innovative digital initiatives aimed at supporting APP education, community engagement, and patient care in movement disorders. Exciting opportunities are ahead!

Mahalo to everyone who joined us in Hawaii! This Congress was not only a success but a reminder of the strength and passion within our AMDAPP community!

Newsletter: September 2025

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:23:43 GMT

Newsletter - September 2025

Dear AMDAPP Members,

On September 9–10th, AMDAPP leadership was honored to join the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Parkinson’s Policy Forum in Washington, D.C. Over two powerful days, we met with Senators and Representatives from our home states to advocate for sustained funding for Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s Disease research and care. Standing shoulder to shoulder with other healthcare providers, patients, care partners, and researchers sent a clear message: every voice counts and together, our voices are impossible to ignore!

One of the most moving moments came from former U.S. Representative Jennifer Wexton of Virginia, diagnosed with PSP in 2023. Using an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device with an AI-generated model of her own voice, she delivered a profound address that left the room silent and inspired. Rep. Wexton was instrumental in passing the Dr. Emmanuel Bilirakis and Honorable Jennifer Wexton National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act that was signed into law on July 2, 2024. This law, now known as the National Parkinson’s Project. Despite this milestone, progress has been slowed by NIH budget cuts. Forum attendees emphasized the urgency of fully standing up the National Parkinson’s Project and called on Congress to hold the EPA accountable for protecting people from paraquat.

This invitation placed AMDAPP® at the table for national advocacy, alongside other leading organizations including the Parkinson’s Foundation, PMD Alliance, APDA, and Lewy Body Dementia Association, all working collectively to accelerate progress for people living with Parkinson’s disease.

We felt your presence with us in every meeting and hallway conversation. AMDAPP made meaningful connections across the Parkinson’s community, and we’re carrying that momentum forward! Please consider getting involved, see below for how to guide.

With Gratitude,

Erin Zinn

Deputy Director

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

Newsletter: August 2025

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:07:21 GMT

AMDAPP Turns 2! Celebrate With Us in This Month’s Newsletter - June 2025

Dear AMDAPP Members,

It’s hard to believe, but we are officially celebrating two incredible years since the founding of our organization, and what a journey it has been!

In this short time, our small but mighty community has grown into a vibrant, nationwide network of Advanced Practice Providers united by our shared commitment to excellence in movement disorders care. Through your passion, involvement, and support, AMDAPP has made remarkable strides in building connections, sharing knowledge, and elevating the role of APPs in this important field.

We’ve seen tremendous membership growth, forged new networking opportunities across the country, and laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration and advancement. Each meetup, webinar, shared resource, discussion thread and of course our conference, is a testament of what amazing things we can achieve together.

As we look ahead, we’re more energized than ever by what the future holds. We have exciting initiatives on the horizon and can’t wait to continue this journey with all of you by our side.

In this issue, you will learn about:

* Our recently launched onboarding education module designed to support and empower new members of our community.

* Upcoming events at ATMRD and MDS in Hawaii

* 2026 Annual Meeting!

* Other exciting upcoming events you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned as we continue to build momentum and shape the future together!

THANK YOU for being such an essential part of AMDAPP’s story. Your dedication and engagement have made these first two years truly extraordinary, and the best is yet to come.

With Gratitude,

Kelly Papesh, DNP

Executive Director

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

Join Us at MDS in Hawaii for APP Networking Reception

erin@amdapp.org (Erin Zinn) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 01:43:19 GMT

Sunset Connections- An Evening Cruise with AMDAPP®

Anchoring advanced practice providers and nurses in care and community

Monday October 6th, 2025 at 5:30PM

Boarding Begins at 5:00PM

With the Oahu sunset as our backdrop we'll connect, share, and celebrate the work that unites us.

Food* Drinks* Inspiration

AMDAPP at the Aspen Course

erin@amdapp.org (Erin Zinn) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:22:21 GMT

AMDAPP ® had an incredible time at this year’s Aspen Course, with more than 15 APPs joining us for a week of learning, connection, and community. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet new faces, exchange ideas, and deepen our collective knowledge around movement disorders.

The conference content was truly outstanding—rich with insights, practical tools, and relevant updates for APPs at all stages of their careers. We left each session feeling more empowered and connected to the broader movement disorder community.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an AMDAPP experience without a bit of fun woven in! Our APP outing included a scenic gondola ride and a relaxing mountaintop lunch—offering the perfect backdrop to unwind and build new friendships.

We’re returning home refreshed, inspired, and more committed than ever to supporting APPs in movement disorders. Thank you to everyone who joined us in Aspen—we can’t wait to see you again soon!

Newsletter: June 2025

erin@amdapp.org (Erin Zinn) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 18:06:34 GMT

AMDAPP Turns 2! Celebrate With Us in This Month’s Newsletter - June 2025

Dear AMDAPP Members,

It’s hard to believe, but we are officially celebrating two incredible years since the founding of our organization, and what a journey it has been!

As we look ahead, we’re more energized than ever by what the future holds. We have exciting initiatives on the horizon and can’t wait to continue this journey with all of you by our side.

In this issue, you will learn about:

* Our recently launched onboarding education module designed to support and empower new members of our community.

* Upcoming events at ATMRD and MDS in Hawaii

* 2026 Annual Meeting!

* Other exciting upcoming events you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned as we continue to build momentum and shape the future together!

THANK YOU for being such an essential part of AMDAPP’s story. Your dedication and engagement have made these first two years truly extraordinary, and the best is yet to come.

With Gratitude,

Kelly Papesh, DNP

Executive Director

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

2025 Conference

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 19:52:04 GMT

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the AMDAPP Annual Conference! Your presence, energy, and contributions made this year’s event one of our most inspiring and impactful gatherings yet.

Over the course of the conference, we witnessed powerful discussions, innovative presentations, and invaluable networking among passionate professionals dedicated to advancing movement disorder care. Whether you were a presenter, participant, exhibitor, volunteer, or a first-time attendee, your involvement was integral to the success of this event.

From expert-led sessions to thought-provoking panels and collaborative workshops, the 2025 AMDAPP Conference served as a vibrant platform for learning, connection, and progress. The insights and ideas shared during our time together will undoubtedly fuel positive change in the months to come.

We are already looking forward to welcoming you again next year—along with many new faces—to continue this important work and celebrate the progress we make together. Until then, thank you for being part of the AMDAPP community.

See you in 2026!

Together in Movement!

2025 APP Updates in Movement Disorders CME Conference

February 14-16th, 2025

Austin, TX

Thank You for Making the AMDAPP Annual Conference a Success!

Newsletter: April 2025

erin@amdapp.org (Erin Zinn) — Sun, 20 Apr 2025 18:18:55 GMT

April at AMDAPP: Honoring Parkinson’s Awareness & Looking Ahead - April 2025 Newsletter

Dear AMDAPP Members,

April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, a time to elevate the voices of our patients and providers, and to recommit to advancing the care and quality of life for those living with movement disorders. I’m proud of the role AMDAPP continues to play in this space and even more excited about where we’re headed.

The first quarter of 2025 has been full of momentum! We’ve exceeded our goals across membership growth, outreach, program development, and strategic initiatives. In March, our leadership team came together for our first in-person strategic planning workshop. This dedicated time allowed us to define key priorities and map out initiatives that will help sustain and scale our impact, like expanding mentorship, launching regional CME events, and creating new leadership pathways within AMDAPP.

We’re also thrilled to share that our first round of certification wrapped successfully, with a 100% first-time pass rate. This is a major milestone and reflects the commitment of our members to provide clinical excellence.

Additionally, we’re gaining national recognition: AMDAPP has been invited by the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) to present in their upcoming Affiliate Member Case Study Series. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase the unique contributions of APPs on a global stage.

Thank you for being part of this growing and energized community. Your dedication continues to fuel this movement!

With Gratitude,

Erin Zinn, MSN, APRN-CNP

Director of Operations

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

Newletter: February 2025

erin@amdapp.org (Erin Zinn) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:32:54 GMT

AMDAPP Newsletter - February 2025

What an incredible few days we just had at the AMDAPP Annual Conference! The energy, collaboration, and shared commitment to advancing movement disorder care were truly inspiring. From dynamic discussions to small group workshops and invaluable networking, this year’s conference reinforced the power of our growing community.

Beyond the sessions, our evening events brought a special kind of camaraderie. Connections were made, ideas were sparked, and our mission felt more alive than ever. But we’re not stopping here! Our certification program is officially launched and gaining momentum, with more APPs taking steps toward advancing their expertise. Plus, our Onboarding Toolkit and Education Pathway are rolling out, providing essential resources to elevate APPs in this field.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, whether in person or in spirit. The momentum is strong, and we can’t wait to keep building on it together!

Cheers,

Kelly Papesh, DNP

Executive Director

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

Newsletter: December 2024

erin@amdapp.org (Erin Zinn) — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 18:18:52 GMT

AMDAPP Newsletter: December 2024

As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect o n the journey we’ve shared. It’s been an exciting year of growth and milestones here at AMDAPP. From our meeting and retreat in Washington DC to the countless hours creating and launching our Certification to becoming an MDS affiliate member; your dedication has been the cornerstone of our organization’s success! We are profoundly grateful for our members- individuals like YOU who bring passion, expertise, and collaboration to everything we do. Your commitment drives our mission forward and inspires us to achieve even greater heights!

Thank you for being an integral part of our community. As we look ahead to the opportunities of the new year, we’re excited to continue building a future of shared success together.

Wishing you a season filled with joy, reflection, and anticipation for the new year to come.

Cheers!

Kelly

Kelly Papesh, DNP

Executive Director

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

Newsletter: October 2024

erin@amdapp.org (Erin Zinn) — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 18:18:50 GMT

AMDAPP Newsletter: October 2024

As we look back on our recent presence at the Movement Disorder Society Congress, we can’t help but feel proud of the strides AMDAPP has made since its launch in Jun e 2023. AMDAPP’s Cocktail Reception and Dinner & Dosing events not only brought our community together but also underscored the impact we’re having in advancing education and care in movement disorders. These moments of connection and collaboration are a reflection of how far we’ve come and the momentum we continue to build.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to share that a major milestone is on the horizon—our certification program is nearing completion, with the application window opening November 1st and the first testing window to begin January 18th, 2025! Additionally, we’re set to launch our new Onboarding Toolkit and Education Pathway in Q4. This marks a pivotal moment in our journey, and we can’t wait to see how these initiatives will elevate our mission moving forward.

Join Us - Together in Movement!

Kelly Papesh, DNP

Executive Director

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

Newsletter: July 2024

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:58:54 GMT

Anniversary Special Issue

The journey to where AMDAPP stands today has been nothing short of extraordinary. Our 2nd Annual Meeting & Retreat on the eve of ATMRD marked a pivotal moment – the first anniversary of AMDAPP. This gathering felt profoundly special, a stark contrast from the previous year. The narrative had shifted. The vision of delivering quality care to those living with movement disorders, & seeing APPs valued and fully utilized, no longer felt like a distant dream. It had become a tangible reality.

To commemorate this milestone, this special issue is dedicated to our first anniversary, blending reflections on our past with hopeful visions for our future.

Included in this issue are impactful visuals from the retreat that highlight:

Certification Journey
AMDAPP Launchpad & Onboarding
AMDAPP’s first Annual Report

Also, we include thoughts on the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act, & my reflection on our departing Board Chair, Sarah Jones, & her instrumental role in shaping where we are now.

Take a moment to immerse yourself in the words of your colleagues, appreciate how far we’ve come, and envision our future.

“Thank you for entrusting me with the opportunity to guide this organization

—it's a profound honor & privilege!” - Kelly

Read the rest of the newsletter here .

Together in Movement

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 18:15:31 GMT

On June 21st, AMDAPP hosted the 2nd Annual Meeting & Retreat at the Gaylord National in DC. We are so thankful to the APPs, MDS partners, and Corporate Roundtable members who joined us. Together we celebrated the successes of all the APPs as we move toward a day where all persons with movement disorders receive the care they deserve and need, and the support and knowledge to do so.