In CSRO’s extensive travels throughout the United States, we became aware of the need for advocacy on behalf of practicing rheumatologists and their patients and we have been impressed by the increasing number of rheumatologists who are appreciative of active representation at the local, state and national levels.

For the past two and a half years, we have had an active presence in Washington. Our initial focus was devoted to issues centered around AWP reform that has expanded to include many other issues of importance to Rheumatology specialists and patients. Recognizing that these and other future issues, as yet undefined, can have significant impact on our practices and on patient care, we believe we provide a unique perspective to national advocacy.

We have been effective in developing many relationships in the Capitol that now have resulted in a better understanding of rheumatologists’ concerns and our patients’ needs. We have accomplished this with a passionate message and missionary zeal. It also helps to have an excellent, well connected lobbyist that we have been fortunate to retain.

But we cannot continue to utilize our lobbyist and expand our advocacy activities under our current structure and satisfy regulatory requirements. Therefore, we are announcing the formation of a new entity: The Rheumatologic Disease Advocacy Council, which will be chartered as a 501c(4) organization, one that can be focused on advocacy. The initial board includes Steve Croft, MD, Florida; David Mandel, MD, Ohio; Robert Harris, MD, California; and Allan Morton, DO, Michigan.

This organization will be funded by non-taxable contributions from rheumatologists. We urge you to join RDAC and send a contribution for $250, $500, $1000 or more.

As this website will continue to be updated; please check back on a regular basis.