Life for Lyme, a division of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce health and medical, recently had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Nelson Arboleda, Director of the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in Washington DC, to discuss the current state of Lyme Disease and associated tick-borne illnesses. The meeting aimed to address the need for updates to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines regarding the diagnosis and treatment of these infections for doctors, hospitals, and all US medical guidelines for those bitten by ticks or suffering from Lyme disease. Additionally, the organization seeks recognition of tick-borne infections as real diseases that should be treated with the same seriousness as any other medical condition.

For years, members of Congress, senators, and leading doctors have attempted to improve the CDC guidelines without success. However, after a brief meeting with Life for Lyme’s founder Duvi Honig and Dr. Arboleda, the Director committed to collaborating directly with the organization to update the guidelines. This collaboration will be based on the recommendations provided by Life for Lyme, which has a dedicated research and development department.

The proposed updates to the CDC guidelines will focus on expanding testing capabilities and advocating for extended treatment options. Lyme Disease is notoriously difficult to diagnose and many patients face challenges in receiving an accurate diagnosis. By expanding testing capabilities, more individuals can receive proper diagnoses and access adequate treatment. Furthermore, Life for Lyme is engaging in lobbying efforts to mandate insurance coverage for the costly extended treatments that many patients require. This is a crucial step in ensuring that all individuals have equal access to the care they need.

Education and spreading awareness about Lyme Disease is another core focus of Life for Lyme. The organization believes that with the right knowledge and information, patients can make well-informed decisions about their treatment and overall well-being. By empowering individuals with accurate information, Life for Lyme aims to help them achieve optimum health. Through the organization’s awareness campaigns, call centers, Dr Referal program and educational initiatives, they hope to reach a wider audience and ensure that individuals and healthcare professionals are knowledgeable about the complexities of Lyme Disease and associated tick-borne infections.

Dr. Arboleda’s extensive experience working with the CDC and as the regional director of their Central American Office makes him well-equipped to address the challenges posed by tick-borne infections. His expertise and commitment to improving public health provide a strong foundation for collaboration with Life for Lyme.

Working directly with the Director on a personal level is an incredible honor for Life for Lyme Syed Duvi Honig founder of the Chamber and its health and medical initiatives. The organization is immensely proud of the extensive reach and influence it has developed within top government departments and among officials. It is a true testament to the importance and impact of their work.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this partnership has been the ability to affect meaningful change in areas that directly impact public health. Thanks to their collaborations, Life for Lyme has earned the ear of the US Government to help form and play a significant role in shaping policies CDC policies and guidelines, ultimately benefiting not only the Jewish community but also people of all backgrounds across the globe.

This will result in the prevention of thousands of illnesses and the preservation of countless lives and families. It is truly a Kiddush Hashem, a sanctification of God’s name, to witness firsthand how an Orthodox Jewish organization can have such a positive influence on society.

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering dedication and hard work of Life for Lyme’s incredible team. Together, we have established a comprehensive team and services provides vital services to those affected by tick bites and related illnesses. life for a Lyme’s initiative includes a call center, referrals to medical professionals, recommended testing labs, support groups, awareness campaigns, and personalized case worker assistance. Each year, we receive over 2500 calls and have recently helped hundreds of families throughout the summer of 2023.

Life for Lyme is extremely grateful for the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Arboleda and the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce health and medical alliance team. The impact we have made to date on public health and the lives of individuals and families is deeply rewarding and we look forward to continuing our efforts making an even greater difference in the future.

In conclusion, Life for Lyme’s meeting with Dr. Arboleda marks a significant step forward in improving the CDC guidelines for Lyme Disease and tick-borne illnesses. By collaborating with the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the organization is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those suffering from these debilitating conditions when others who tried in the passed failed to do so. Through updating the CDC Guidelines promoting expanded testing capabilities, increasing access to extended treatment options, and education and awareness initiatives, we look forward working with the Director towards a future where Lyme Disease and associated tick-borne infections are properly recognized, diagnosed, and treated properly.

[Press Release]