ADVOCACY

AWISH extends its support by acts of advocacy on behalf of all arthritis patients, lobbying Federal and Provincial politicians in regards to changes needed to improve the care and well being of persons living with any of the more than 100 forms of the disease.

According to Webster's dictionary, advocacy is the act of speaking or writing in support of something. For the arthritis patient, this can make a great difference in quality of life, health, and possibly even survival.  Our Provincial and Federal governments must set priorities in health policy and funding.  To make these decisions, they need to consult their constituents,  the taxpayers.  Therefore, someone must ensure the governing bodies have sufficient knowledge and understanding of all arthritis issues in order to make fair judgements where priorities are concerned.  AWISH is involved in many advocacy initiatives, and has prioritized three concerns:

• ACCESS TO RHEUMATOLOGISTS:  There is an insufficient number of rheumatologists in Québec and the wait to see arthritis specialists is very long.  AWISH also addresses the need for better training and understanding of arthritis by general practitioners and other specialists.

• ACCESS TO ARTHRITIS MEDICATIONS: There is a need for more research into arthritis medications and treatments.  Health Canada currently has major difficulties and delays in approving new and promising medications.  Once approved by Health Canada, each Provincial government then decides if a new medication will be on the formulary.

• ACCESS TO PATIENT CARE AND EDUCATION: This includes the two-tier system for physio and occupational therapies and the need for home care services, among others.  A system of education for patients is needed so that they can make rational, informed decisions about their health care.

    
Many members of AWISH actively advocate for arthritis patients.  From time to time, we meet with our local, Federal and Provincial representatives to present the needs of arthritis sufferers.  Individuals can also make a difference by speaking out and touching someone with their own story.  Call or write your MP or MNA and let them know where you think your healthcare dollars should be spent.  In helping yourself, you will be helping us all.

Created for AWISH by Patricia McManus, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Copyright 2009