Second, believe it or not, many members of Congress, especially first‐term legislators, do not know the ACR or our issues. Some may not even know what a rheumatologist does. RheumPAC helps us build relationships with lawmakers and allows us to educate them about who we are, the valuable care we provide in their districts and how we benefit patients, physicians and the healthcare delivery system as a whole.
Myths about RheumPAC
Myth: “I don’t get involved in politics.”
You are already involved. Elected legislators make policy every day that directly impacts you. Policy decisions affect your profession, your livelihood and your ability to care for your patients. The only question is whether or not we have a seat at the table for these discussions.
Myth: “Investing in RheumPAC does not make a difference.”
Untrue. Review some of the legislative highlights from 2020 that are due in part to efforts by RheumPAC.
Myth: “PACs only exist to help one party or another.”
Untrue. RheumPAC is truly bipartisan. Our mission is to advance ACR/ARP priorities. Decisions about who to support are solely based on the senator’s or representative’s ability to pass legislation that is beneficial to rheumatology patients and providers.
Why is 2021 an important year for legislative action?
With so many new faces elected to Congress and new legislators in key leadership positions, it will be especially important that RheumPAC continue to build relationships with the offices of the many healthcare policy stakeholders.
Additionally, a new administration brings about a strong possibility of sweeping legislative changes in the first year of the 117th Congress. Now more than ever, with so much stake in the future of healthcare, we need financial commitment from ACR/ARP members to bring about the change we want to see.
To learn more, visit www.rheumpac.org or reach out to Dan Redinger, ACR’s manager of Advocacy & Political Affairs, at [email protected].
