“During the pandemic we halted fundraising efforts because of the unprecedented stress it was having on practices and providers,” says Dr. Wallace, a rheumatologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. “However, the work doesn’t stop. It is through these contributions that we are able to get a seat at the table.”
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Now more than ever, staying in touch with members of Congress is important. They are working on legislation affecting medical care in general and rheumatologists in particular. In addition, RheumPAC needs funds to continue support for long-standing relationships built up over the years.
“When we meet with congressional members and their staffs, it isn’t just ‘Hi, how are you,’” says Dr. Libman. “We can explain our concerns and open a good dialog. This, in turn, often leads to support for legislation helpful to the clinician and the patient.”
RheumPAC works to keep the views of rheumatology in front of those making decisions at the federal level.
“There is an old saying that if you’re not at the table, you are on the menu,” says Mr. Redinger. “We need to make sure our voice is heard over the many competing ones that are in touch with members of Congress. Because of RheumPAC, we have these relationships and access to discuss our core issues with one voice.”
U.S. ACR/ARP members can donate to help ensure the ACR has a seat at the table for future discussions on Capitol Hill.
Kurt Ullman is a freelance writer based in Indiana.
Contributions to RheumPAC are not tax deductible for federal income tax purposes. All contributions to RheumPAC are voluntary and must be made with personal funds. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal. Any proposed contribution amounts are merely suggestions; you may choose to contribute more or less or not at all. RheumPAC will not favor or disadvantage anyone by reason of the amount contributed or the decision not to contribute. Federal law prohibits contributions from corporations. RheumPAC participants must be United States citizens or permanent resident aliens.