Yes, we have an extension! Yes, it is official! Yes, Yes, Yes. . . .(don't get me going)

IDSA Lyme Disease Review Panel Announces Public Input Period and Hearing Date

Revised 03/27/2009

IDSA has convened a review panel to examine whether the Society’s Lyme Disease guidelines, published in 2006, should be revised or updated based on a rigorous review of the medical and scientific evidence on the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme Disease.

The Review Panel initiated a 60-day input period to allow the public to submit information to ensure that all points of view are taken into consideration. There will also be an open public hearing to offer a forum for the presentation of relevant information on the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme Disease.

The public input period has been extended to April 24. Interested individuals and organizations may submit information as follows:

Submissions* must be received by 5:00 PM Eastern, April 24, 2009 and must include:

Statement including:

o Name and contact information of the submitter

o Issue(s)/concern(s) and relevance to 2006 IDSA Lyme Disease guidelines; and/or

o Issue(s) not covered in the 2006 IDSA Lyme Disease guidelines

* Reference list of supporting data (if available)

The Review Panel is committed to considering all points of view. The Panel respectfully requests that comments be succinct and focused into approximately 10 pages; however all written submissions, regardless of length, will be considered. Comments should identify specific recommendations from the 2006 guidelines and evidence that either supports or refutes those recommendations.

Submissions should be made to the attention of the “IDSA Lyme Disease Review Panel” at: lyme@idsociety.org.

*Note that submissions may be posted Online by IDSA for public viewing.

Open Public Hearing

The Review Panel will hold an open public hearing in Washington, DC.

The hearing, which had been planned for April 27, is being postponed to allow potential presenters more time to prepare and make travel arrangements.

Individuals who wish to present at the hearing must download and submit the application and disclosure form.

Members of the public will be able to view the hearing live on the IDSA website. A taped archive will be available online after the hearing.