There are foundations that are willing, able, and extremely interested in helping to promote young careers within the field of rheumatology. The ACR Research and Education Foundation is a perfect example.
Q: What has your involvement with ARHP meant to your patients?
A: I have been very active with the organization at different levels. I think probably the area that I feel most passionately about is patient advocacy and advocacy in general for the field of rheumatology. Certainly, I believe we’ve made some strides with respect to reimbursement and government issues around healthcare, although we still have a long way to go. Advocacy is one way that, as an individual, you can make a difference.
Whether advocating with senators, congressmen, or their health legislative assistants, our stories are more impactful when we share our patient experiences or visit the hill with our patients.
Richard Quinn is a freelance writer based in New Jersey.
