New York State Arthritis Action Plan

In New York State, arthritis affects approximately 4.7 million adult New Yorkers. Of those, 1.5 million are age 65 and older. More New York women are living with arthritis than men, with 36% of female respondents stating that they have some form of arthritis or chronic joint symptoms (2001 BRFSS). We also know that New York adults who are overweight or obese experience more arthritis than those who are not.

The NYS Arthritis Action Plan incorporates a long-term time frame of five years or more with a priority sequencing of objectives based on current capacity, known or anticipated resources, successful prototype models, current needs and other environmental factors. It also acknowledges and supports the Healthy People 2010 goals that for the first time prioritize arthritis and related diseases as important areas of policy and program focus for public health over the next decade.

The Plan is a useful guide for state and local providers, persons with arthritis and related diseases and their caregivers, health professionals and insurers, policy makers, and the general public to better understand the burden of arthritis in New York State. Importantly, the Plan describes strategies for reducing the disabling effects of the disease.

Dear Colleague:

I am pleased to present the New York State Arthritis Action Plan. This Plan, developed by the New York State Department of Health Arthritis Program and the Arthritis Coalition, is the first of its kind to address the burden of arthritis and related diseases in New York State.

As the leading cause of disability in New York, arthritis is a major health concern. This chronic, painful disease affects about 4.7 million adults and, as the state's population ages, the numbers are only expected to increase.

The Arthritis Coalition and the NYSDOH Arthritis Program have worked diligently to produce the New York State Arthritis Action Plan. The Plan is modeled after the National Arthritis Action Plan (NAAP), which outlines three main focal areas for state-based plans. They are: Surveillance and Epidemiology, Communication and Education, and Programs, Policies and Systems. The New York Arthritis Coalition has identified strategic directions and priority goals that will guide the Plan process over the next few years.

The NYS Department of Health would like to extend a sincere thank you to all who have contributed to this important endeavor. Experts in the field of arthritis and related diseases, health care and health policy have contributed to and reviewed this Plan. As the Plan moves forward, the Arthritis Coalition invites potential partners, with an interest in arthritis prevention and control, to actively participate in upcoming activities.

Sincerely,

Guthrie S. Birkhead, M.D., M.P.H.
Director
Center for Community Health

The Mission for the Arthritis Program in the State of New York is to maximize the quality of life for New Yorkers who suffer from arthritis and its related diseases.

THE NEW YORK STATE ARTHRITIS PLAN

Table of Contents

I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

II. OVERVIEW

III. BACKGROUND

IV. THE BURDEN OF ARTHRITIS

V. WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?

  • A. Risk Factors
    • Non-Modifiable Risk Factors
      • 1. Gender
      • 2. Age
      • 3. Genetic Predisposition
    • Modifiable Risk Factors
      • 1. Overweight/Obesity
      • 2. Inactivity
      • 3. Low Level of Education and Lower Income
  • B. Prevention and Treatment

VI. THE NEW YORK STATE ARTHRITIS PROGRAM

VII. ARTHRITIS PREVENTION AND CARE IN NEW YORK STATE: A REVIEW

  • A. Core Capacities and Resources
    • 1. Demand Dynamic
    • 2. Public Knowledge of Disease Group
    • 3. Proven Programs and Interventions
    • 4. Medical Support Inventory
    • 5. Patient Education and Diagnosis
    • 6. Advocates and Strong Staff
    • 7. Visible Support
    • 8. Collaboration
  • B. Compelling Gaps
    • 1. Disease and Population Changes
    • 2. Professional/Provider Issues
    • 3. Financial Constraints
    • 4. Public Perceptions Require Change

VIII. PLAN FRAMEWORK

IX. STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

X. SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES

XI. APPENDIX A: New York Arthritis Coalition Partners

XII. APPENDIX B: Healthy People 2010 Goals

XIII. APPENDIX C: Progress and Accomplishments

XIV. APPENDIX D: Arthritis Foundation Needs Assessment

XV. APPENDIX E: Plan Dissemination

XVI. APPENDIX F: Resources

XVII. APPENDIX G: References

New York State Arthritis Action Plan in PDF format - (778 KB)