On Tuesday May 6th, 2003, New York State Lyme disease patients will lobby their state legislators to pass two bills that are essential to protect our right to medical care.

THE ISSUE:
The NYS Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC), the state agency charged with discipline of physicians, has prematurely accepted one side of the on-going scientific controversy as to whether 3-4 weeks of antibiotics is always sufficient for Lyme disease treatment. The OPMC has targeted for investigation TWO THIRDS of the NY physicians who have treated for longer periods.

These investigations have already led to and could continue to lead to revocation of the licenses of these doctors. This apparent "profiling" of Lyme doctors has created a climate of fear in which most physicians throughout the country will not treat Lyme disease with more than the minimal 3-4 week treatment.

THE SOLUTION:
There are currently two bills in the legislature that will protect Lyme treating physicians.   One bill protects Lyme doctors from being prosecuted for using long term antibiotics, and the other gives all physicians the right of due process in defending themselves against the OPMC.

WHAT ALL NEW YORK STATE CITIZENS CAN DO TO HELP:
We need to have a big showing in Albany on May 6th to meet face to face with legislators and enlist their support. If you live in NYS and have Lyme disease, or know someone who does, or are otherwise interested in helping us, please come with us on May 6th.

TO SIGN UP FOR LOBBY DAY:

EMAIL-
nylyme@yahoo.com with your name, address and telephone number. We will get back to you with details.
PHONE-
1) In Westchester: Call Linda at 914-739-2997.
2) In NYC: Call Bob at 718-332-9082 or 917-363-4162.
3) All other areas: Call Lia at 845-486-1103.