On Wednesday, September 19, the American College of Rheumatology and the Arthritis Foundation will jointly brief members of Congress and their staffs about the devastating effects of arthritis and related rheumatic diseases.
During the briefing, both organizations will request Congressional support of the “Arthritis Prevention, Control and Cure Act of 2007” (S.626/H.R. 1283).
The briefing will highlight the benefits of the legislation, including better coordination and communication of outreach and research programs and increased focus on access to care.
The “Arthritis Prevention, Control and Cure Act of 2007,” introduced by Senators Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Christopher “Kit” Bond (R-Mo.); Representatives Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) and Charles “Chip” Pickering (R-Miss.), focuses on five key points:
- Enhancing the CDC's public health activities related to arthritis through the full implementation of the National Arthritis Action Plan
- Expansion intensification and coordination of activities of the National Institutes of Health with respect to research on arthritis
- Expansion, intensification and innovation of research and public health activities related to juvenile arthritis
- Investment in tomorrow's pediatric rheumatologists
- General accounting office study of arthritis and the workplace
Going beyond current legislation, the program will take a look at rheumatic diseases by offering a glimpse into the lives of patients living with them and the practices of physicians treating those patients.
Neal S. Birnbaum, MD, president of the American College of Rheumatology and John H. Klippel, MD, president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation agree that, “Comprehensive legislation such as the Arthritis Prevention, Control and Cure Act is unprecedented, and it is vital our leaders demonstrate their commitment to helping people suffering from arthritis and other rheumatic diseases by supporting the Act.”
“Our elected officials have the power to offer new hope to the millions of Americans and families living with arthritis. It is imperative we work together to learn more about its causes, develop innovative treatment options and eventually find a cure,” says Dr. Klippel.
Several advocates will address members of congress during the briefing: