Canadian Rheumatology Association Supports Arthritis Alliance's First-Ever Arthritis Framework

TORONTO, Oct. 5, 2012 /CNW/ - The Canadian Rheumatology Association (CRA) is proud to support the Arthritis Alliance of Canada (AAC) in its goal to improve the lives of Canadians living with arthritis through the Joint Action on Arthritis: A Framework to Improve Arthritis Prevention and Care in Canada. Arthritis and rheumatic diseases strongly affect patients' quality of life and cost the Canadian economy an estimated $33 billion each year.

"Our goal is to improve the care and quality of life of patients suffering from rheumatic conditions," says Dr. Carter Thorne, president, Canadian Rheumatology Association.  "The pillars outlined in the Joint Action on Arthritis Framework resonate with the CRA's mission and values, and represent a significant step towards ensuring that Canadians living with arthritis receive the best possible care."

The CRA is a founding member and is currently one of 34 member organizations with the Arthritis Alliance of Canada, which launched the Framework on September 18^th in Calgary.

The goals of the CRA include advancing professional camaraderie, research and training in order to improve the health of Canadians with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Today, the CRA comprises over 500 members throughout all 10 provinces and territories.

For more information about the CRA, visit www.rheum.ca.

Canadian Rheumatology Association

The mission of the Canadian Rheumatology Association is to represent Canadian Rheumatologists and promote the pursuit of excellence in Arthritis Care, Education and Research.

SOURCE: Canadian Rheumatology Association

To speak with a representative from the Canadian Rheumatology Association:

Dr. Carter Thorne
President
Canadian Rheumatology Association
905-952-0698
[email protected]