• Calling your members of Congress is one of the easiest ways to bring the issues of the rheumatology community to their attention. Use the AMA's Grassroots Hotline at (800) 833-6354.
• E-mail is another quick and effective method of getting your message to your elected officials. Use the ACR's Legislative Action Center and make sure to personalize your message.
• Letters are an important and effective way to introduce yourself and tell your legislator your stance on multiple issues. Short, handwritten letters are best and make sure to include your full address so that they know you live in their district. As mail to Congress may take time, you should fax the handwritten letter in addition to sending it via U.S.P.S. You can find contact information for your members of Congress here.
• An in-person meeting is a very effective way to convey your message and allows you to build a relationship with your legislators and their staff. You can organize a meeting in your district or in Washington, D.C. with your member of Congress or join the ACR's Advocates for Arthritis event held each September.
• Most members of Congress are not aware that rheumatologists receive years of additional training to provide expert care to patients with arthritis and rheumatic conditions. What better way to show your legislators about the specialized care you provide your patients than inviting them to visit your office? Use this sample invitation letter as a guide or for more assistance, contact the .
• Members of Congress are using social media for a number of purposes: publicizing town halls and local events, soliciting constituent opinions or announcing developments on legislation. By becoming a member of your legislator's social network you can stay up to date on the latest happenings and express your opinions on issues affecting your district and the rheumatology community.

• Be Prepared
  The key to influencing the people who represent you is showing them that you are a well-informed, committed constituent. Members of Congress are extremely busy people. Be clear that you are a rheumatology professional, a constituent and you are contacting their office to discuss an issue affecting the rheumatology community. Before meeting or calling your legislators, make sure you are familiar with the ACR's legislative priorities and positions.
• Be a good source of information
  In order to build a relationship with your member of Congress; you need to be a source of credible information. Understand and be able to discuss both sides of the issues. You will gain credibility if you can both educate and persuade.
• Personalize your message
  Congressional offices can be inundated with requests and information. Sharing your personal experiences with members of Congress and staff will ensure a personal connection to your issue.
• Be Polite
  Communicate with your members of Congress clearly, concisely and with respect. Even if you are angry or frustrated, be sure to use a polite tone and appropriate language.
• Ask for a response
  Ask directly and politely for the legislator's views and position on the issue and what he/she plans to do about it.
• Follow up
  Whether you make a phone call, write a letter or have an in-person meeting, make sure to send a follow up note to your member of Congress or staffer. 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.

ACR Issue Briefs

Patients are constituents too. Patients have personal stories to share about the frustration of insurance denials, restrictions in Medicare reimbursements and the lack of research funding in rheumatology. Patients can sign up to receive Calls to Action here or by e-mailing

Do you have an established relationship with a member of Congress, congressional staffer or someone in the administration? Are you willing to meet with your legislators to advance rheumatology? If you answered "Yes" then sign up to be an ACR Key Contact. Complete this form and fax it to (404) 633-1870.

RheumWATCH is a monthly publication that keeps you informed about legislative and regulatory issues, grassroots activities, the ACR's efforts in Washington as well as practice management information.

Educate your patients on the continued battle to avert Medicare cuts. Download a Medicare flier or

ACR Advocacy Brochure