Lyme Blog Posts
POLITICAL ACTION: History of Federal Lyme Legislation, Part 7
It was 2005, the first session of the 109th Congress. There were two competing bills in the House, and no Senate bill. No one knew…
Let’s give a hand to Volkman–a little thank you can go a long way
Sometimes someone does something so wonderful. Really! Something so wonderful that you have to stop, take a breath, exhale, and look again. …
POLITICAL ACTION: History of Federal Lyme Legislation, Part 6
Some advocates had not been satisfied with the amended LIFT bill that had passed the Senate on consent in 2002. Since many people seemed unclear…
JAMA to IDSA–Can you hear me now? Now? How about Now?!
Merrill Goozner continues his insightful beat on conflict of interest articles by JAMA this year. Count them, one, two, three by JAMA–THIS YEAR–SO FAR–AND…
POLITICAL ACTION: History of Federal Lyme Legislation, Part 5
Sometimes Congress is busy with other matters, like wars and disasters. Early in 2003, Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated during reentry, killing all 7 astronauts onboard…
IDSA: Caution when opening–contents under pressure
When is an open hearing not an open hearing? How do you give the appearance of being open without, well, actually being open? …
POLITICAL ACTION: State Legislation in the Lymelight
The Connecticut insurance law passed in 1999 is an example of how well-intended legislation can hurt. In response to numerous complaints received by his office…
POLITICAL ACTION: State Legislation in the Lymelight
Rhode Island is the only state in the country requiring health insurance companies to cover longterm intravenous antibiotic treatment for Lyme-disease patients, no strings attached…
IDSA makes it official–input period extended for all to April 24th
Yes, we have an extension! Yes, it is official! Yes, Yes, Yes. . . .(don't get me going)
IDSA NEW DEADLINES Schedule–Time to get on the stick
The IDSA has a new schedule for the Lyme disease guidelines review process—applications are open—submissions of contested recommendations are extended—hearing date is not set. …
Volkman submission to IDSA–Smells like courage to me
David Volkman, Emeritus Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at SUNY, Stony Brook, and previously Senior Investigator with the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases,…
POLITICAL ACTION: State Legislation in the Lymelight
Rhode Island was the first state in the nation to pass legislation protecting doctors who treat people with chronic Lyme disease from prosecution by state…