With the ACR/ARHP’s support, research funding for the National Institutes of Health was boosted by $2 billion in 2017 despite threats by the current administration to cut it. The ACR/ARHP raised awareness of the impact of arthritis on service members and veterans, including that it is the second leading cause of medical discharge from the Army behind battlefield injury, and is the leading cause of disability among veterans, resulting in continued support for arthritis research through the Department of Defense.
At the state level in 2017, the ACR/ARHP helped to pass biosimilar legislation in 10 states and step therapy laws in five states. MACRA education sessions were hosted by the ACR/ARHP during 22 rheumatology meetings throughout the country.
2017 By the Numbers
- Sent 22 letters to payers on policy coverage issues;
- Reviewed or monitored 578 pieces of legislation;
- Held over 265 meetings in Congressional offices;
- Coordinated 40 active affiliate rheumatology societies;
- ACR/ARHP members sent more than 3,775 emails to Congress on policy issues;
- Facilitated publication of 88 media stories, op-eds and letters to the editor advancing ACR’s policy positions;
- Supported more than 50 fundraisers for members of Congress and candidates through RheumPAC; and
- Drew more than 1 million views and social media impressions of the #Act4Arthritis hashtag.
The ACR/ARHP is gearing up for our 2018 policy efforts, including continued work through the AMA and 14 current policy coalitions. We hope that you will help keep the momentum going by letting lawmakers know of your concerns through the ACR/ARHP Legislative Action Center or by investing in RheumPAC. Visit www.rheumatology.org/Advocacy to learn more.
