Coronavirus, Advocacy & Arthritis

Before the global pandemic, arthritis patients already often faced compromised immune systems, high out-of-pocket costs and difficulty accessing health care. To get a better idea of how we can better serve our community during these unprecedented times, the Arthritis Foundation surveyed nearly 1,000 advocates.  From medication shortages and cancelled doctor appointments, to financial struggles and concerns about what will happen as the world opens back up, our respondents gave us a glimpse of their collective challenges so we can advocate for a better tomorrow. 
Top three concerns for arthritis patients:

1. Contracting the virus and/or infecting a loved one
2. Accessing health care in person or through telehealth
3. The economic impact of the pandemic on their ability to get the care they need

For more details about the results, ways to take action and information on how to solve some common challenges, keep scrolling.

Medication Shortage

Once the federal government started discussing hydroxychloroquine (HCL) as a potential treatment for COVID-19, patients who take this medication to manage their arthritis began to face shortages. Many people who are accustomed to picking up a 90-day supply can only get a 14-day supply, forcing them to return to the pharmacy frequently – a hazard for people at high risk for COVID-19. Others have not been able to access their prescriptions at all and have had to ration pills. Shortages can have long-term health consequences.

Arthritis Medication Contingency Planning

 

Doctors Appointment

Arthritis patients are dealing with postponed and cancelled appointments with the specialists they rely on to manage their pain, in addition to fears around contracting COVID-19 at the doctor’s office. Gaps in visits can increase chronic pain and severely limit mobility.
Maintaining Routine Rheumatology Care During COVID-19 Outbreak

Telemedicine

Many providers are switching to telehealth, which comes with its own challenges. The promise of telehealth is an empty one for patients without internet access or computers with cameras. For patients who are afraid to see their providers in person and who don’t have access to telehealth, the pandemic has disrupted their entire spectrum of care.
Need to See Your Doctor? Try Telemedicine.

Economic Impact

Economic anxiety came up in survey results again and again. Arthritis care can be incredibly expensive. Since most people get health insurance through their employer, a layoff could be life or death.
10 Tips for Managing Arthritis Care Costs

Stigma & Mental Health

The message that “only” people who are older and have comorbidities are at risk of dying from COVID-19 has come from all sides throughout the pandemic. These messages can strain mental health.
Emotional Self-Care During Tough Times