Meet with your Member of Congress during Summer Recess (August 8 - Sept. 5)
July 19, 2011
Congress will be home August 8 - September 5, so now is the perfect time to request an in-person meeting while they are back in the district. Whether you're passionate about maintaining research funding for arthritis or discouraged by continued reimbursement issues, this is your chance to share your point-of-view with the people who make decisions affecting you, your patients and your profession.
Scheduling a meeting with your members of Congress is easy, just follow the steps below:
- Locate the district office nearest you by entering your zip code
- Request the meeting
Call the district office and ask to speak to the scheduler. Tell the scheduler that you are a constituent and a rheumatology professional and would like to meet with your Senator/Representative to discuss issues affecting the rheumatology community. - Prepare for the meeting
The key to influencing your legislator is to show that you are a well-informed, committed constituent. Make sure you are up-to-date by reviewing the ACR's legislative positions and priorities. - Follow up
Be sure to thank them for their time, include the issue(s) you discussed and reiterate your request(s). Use this sample follow up letter as a guide.
The ACR's Government Affairs Department is here to help you every step of the way. Please contact advocacy@rheumatology.org or call 404-633-3777 ext. 807 with any questions or for help scheduling meetings.
