The ACR is deeply concerned by these endeavors. We have joined forces with other specialty societies in speaking out against the cap on indirect research costs. We are currently monitoring how these recent program consolidations and reductions in force will impact regulatory issues of the most concern to ACR membership, such as Medicare and Medicaid coverage and reimbursement and FDA approval and regulation of prescription drugs.
Specifically, the ACR has joined forces with the Arthritis Foundation to petition the new leadership to continue supporting arthritis research. We have also joined the Alliance for a Stronger FDA to express concerns to Congress and the Trump Administration that sudden sweeping changes may result in unintended consequences and to encourage Congress and the HHS to collaboratively provide a more detailed plan and engage in a stakeholder dialogue prior to moving forward.
The ACR is steadfastly committed to ensuring our nation’s public health agencies remain global leaders in promoting the health and well-being of everyone. We will continue to advocate for proven programs that have bolstered research on arthritis and other rheumatologic diseases and enhanced the ability of rheumatologists to provide high-quality care for their patients. ACR/ARP members should email the ACR’s advocacy team at [email protected] with any questions and comments.
