WASHINGTON — Consumers for Quality Care (CQC), an organization dedicated to ensuring that patients – and their right to affordable, quality care – remain at the forefront of the health care debate, is pleased to announce that The Myositis Association (TMA) has joined its coalition.

“We are thrilled to welcome The Myositis Association to the CQC coalition. TMA serves as the leading international organization to support patients living with myositis – a rare and often invisible disease – throughout the country and abroad,” said the Honorable Donna Christensen, CQC board member, physician and former Member of Congress. “TMA works tirelessly to raise awareness about the diversity of experiences that muscle inflammation diseases can cause and improve patients’ quality of life. CQC looks forward to amplifying the voices of TMA and its patient community through the #HealthCareFail campaign to highlight the high costs of essential care for people living with complex diseases.”

“Rare diseases, like myositis, are financially challenging for patients not only because of the costs of medications and procedures, but the need for equipment and home modifications. TMA is proud to partner with Consumers for Quality Care as we call for fair and equitable access to treatments, medications, durable medical equipment, and social services required to address complex chronic illnesses. TMA is confident we will accomplish great things partnering  with CQC as we work to help reduce the financial burden of essential care for all patients,” said Mary McGowan, Executive Director of The Myositis Association.

The Myositis Association joins CQC and 15 other groups, including Black Women’s Health Imperative and the National Minority Quality Forum, in advocating for the needs and rights of health care consumers.