Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Arthritis Foundation is committed to providing up to date information as well as services to comfort and empower those living with arthritis.
Here's How We Made an Impact In 2020:
Virtual Support
- We provided an entry point and support system to 1,500 additional arthritis patients seeking information and encouragement—a 22% increase over the same period in 2019.
- During the first few months of the pandemic, more people engaged in our Online Community than ever before, with an increase of over 500% in posts made by those impacted by arthritis.
- 177 local Connect Groups held virtual meetings in April and May to keep participants updated and connected.
- 533 people called our Helpline for information or assistance, making it a crucial source of support.
Care and Connect
- 275,000+ followers across 4 social media platforms got the tips they needed to stay healthy in quarantine, create a handmade face mask, stay physically active, eat well and more.
- 158,000 constituents were kept updated about the COVID-19 services we offer, including our Helpline, online resources and opportunities to connect with each other.
- More than 3,000 supporters received personal phone calls from us to check on how they are doing and if they needed anything.
Advocacy Issues
Access to Care
- Addressing challenges to accessing medications and affording needed care
- Advocating with decision-makers to address shortages of arthritis medications
- Urging policymakers to break down barriers to treatments during COVID-19
Resolving Gaps in Health Coverage
- Calling on Congress to implement patient-centric solutions through telehealth and other options
- Urging a legislative solution for workers who have lost employer-sponsored coverage during the pandemic
Workforce Shortages
- Urging Congress to enact legislation that ensures providers remain solvent during the crisis through tailored funding
- Pushing for successful reauthorization of a program to incentivize pediatric rheumatologists to practice in underserved areas in the first COVID-19 relief bill passed by Congress
Throughout the pandemic, people with arthritis have counted on the Arthritis Foundation to stay connected and help them get the care they need. With your help, we can focus on these priorities and continue to champion the fight against arthritis. Contact the Arthritis Foundation at 866-528-8687 or [email protected] to learn how you can make an impact well into the future.
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