Advocates for Arthritis Fly-In Event Benefits Rheumatology Patients

“I want to be informed about healthcare so I can make good decisions for myself,” she says. “It’s fun to learn and be able to tell other people about it.”

Pitch In & Have Patience
The results of advocacy may not always manifest immediately, says Dr. Harvey, but “if we keep the message up over time, we can have an impact.”

This is what continues to motivate Dr. Shakoory. “There is a huge need for advocacy, no matter which way you look at it, and we are approaching the lawmakers to try to change things for rheumatology patients. I think we all need to pitch in—every single one of us—in whatever capacity we can.”

Kelly April Tyrrell writes about health, science and health policy. She lives in Madison, Wis.