A summary of proceedings of the Forum on Arthritis Research and Education in Nursing and Allied Health is presented. The keynote address, "The Burden of Arthritis," by Dorothy P. Rice, provides data collected by the National Center for Health Statistics on the prevalence of arthritis, the burden it imposes, and the volume, type, and cost of health services utilized by arthritis patients. Information on the preparation of the generalist clinician to provide services for arthritis patients is presented based on a mail survey of U.S. and Canada nursing, occupational, and physical therapy undergraduate programs. Recommendations are offered concerning curriculum content for basic professional programs, basic educational methods and resources, faculty preparation to teach arthritis content, and continuing education for the generalist. Information about graduate level specialist preparation and recommendations concerning specialist preparation, resources and programs, and public and patient education are presented. Recommendations are also given concerning research needs in arthritis, suggested research funding, research settings, and topics for studies. Bibliographies on numerous topics concerning arthritis, psychosocial support for patients, patient education materials, and professional preparation are included. Information on federal funding for advanced training and research for nurses and allied health professionals is included. (SW)