A Different Normal

By Myrl Weinberg, FASAE, CAE

Over the past few months this blog has introduced us to many wonderful and touching stories.

We have learned about strong individuals and loving caregivers who have risen above the pain, and we’ve explored the nationwide networks made up of “the most amazing people in the world, who have become a second family.” We learned how important it is to “tell your story in an impactful and meaningful way,” and to seek support from patient advocacy organizations.

As we come to the end of 2011, many of us think about ways to give back to the organizations that have helped us over the past 12 months. How do we know which organizations will use our donations wisely? There are numerous worthy patient advocacy groups, and the National Health Council (NHC) recognizes that selecting which one to support can be a difficult decision.

One way to help you decide is to look for the Standards of Excellence^® certification logo on an organization’s website. This certification demonstrates that a patient advocacy organization meets the stringent requirements established for members of the NHC.

The NHC Standards are aligned with, but more comprehensive than, the Standards for Charitable Accountability adopted by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance. The NHC Standards are also unique to patient advocacy organizations. To be certified, an organization must pass a thorough analysis of its operational documents, such as bylaws, audited financial statements and annual reports.

There are many different ways to strengthen the patient community. Continue to share your stories and advice on this blog. Reach out to other patients in need of support. Volunteer your time and talents. And, if you decide to donate to a patient advocacy organization, look for the Standards of Excellence^® logo on the organization’s website to ensure that your donation will be used efficiently and effectively for the good of patients.

More than 133 million people in the United States live with a chronic disease or disability, and the numbers are growing. Whether you have a chronic condition or not, your support of patient advocacy organizations helps people live better and healthier lives and advance the development of new treatments and cures.

Have a Wonderful Holiday Season.

Myrl Weinberg is president of the National Health Council (NHC), the only organization of its kind that brings together all segments of the health care community to provide a united voice for the more than 133 million people with chronic diseases and disabilities and their family caregivers. The NHC is made up of more than 100 national health-related organizations.