The Ohio Association of Rheumatology (OAR) is committed to ensuring that rheumatologists and their patients have a strong voice in the policies that shape healthcare in Ohio. OAR works to educate policymakers, engage with legislators, and advocate for policies that support rheumatology practices, reduce unnecessary administrative burdens, protect access to appropriate treatments, and improve care for patients living with rheumatic diseases.
Throughout the year, OAR monitors legislative and regulatory issues affecting the rheumatology community and works alongside physicians, healthcare organizations, patient advocates, and other stakeholders to advance meaningful policy solutions.
A cornerstone of these efforts is OAR’s Annual Advocacy Day, when rheumatologists and other members of the rheumatology community come together in Columbus to visit the Ohio Statehouse and meet directly with legislators. These conversations give OAR members an opportunity to share firsthand how proposed policies affect their practices and, most importantly, the patients they serve.
By building relationships with Ohio policymakers and bringing the experiences of rheumatologists and patients directly to the legislative process, OAR works to ensure that the voice of rheumatology is heard when decisions affecting patient care are made.
