The immune system exists to protect the body from harm.
But for a growing number of people, the immune system becomes the source of the harm, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The resulting autoimmune disease can affect any or multiple parts of the body with devastating consequences.
The Autoimmune Alliance exists to advocate for people living with autoimmune diseases.
We aim to improve South Africans’ understanding of autoimmunity, shorten the time to an accurate diagnosis, ensure timely access to appropriate treatments, and advocate for patient rights where these are denied.
Treatment advocacy for medical scheme members
We have a history of successfully advocating for patients denied funding for essential treatments by their medical schemes. This work informs our ongoing efforts to clarify a difference in interpretation between medical schemes and the Council for Medical Schemes about critical treatment and care funding regulations.
If you have a Prescribed Minimum Benefit condition and your medical scheme has refused to fund appropriate treatment, learn how to advocate for yourself by listening to this podcast or reading these guides.
If you need additional help, email us at info@autoimmunealliance.co.za or click here.
In the news
Patient support groups
The Autoimmune Alliance of SA does not provide disease-specific patient support.
Please find below a list of some patient-focused organisations.
If you can’t find a support group for your condition, why not start one?
Belonging to a community connected through circumstance can address feelings of isolation and anxiety, and chatting with people who get it is also good for the soul!
Starting a support group is as simple as asking your doctor to share your contact details with patients seeking support. Contact us for advice on starting a more formal patient support group.
About us
The Autoimmune Alliance was formed in response to a need for effective treatment advocacy across autoimmune conditions. As our resources allow, we intend to address other essential projects, including standardising diagnostic criteria and tools.
Our
Board
Dr David Epstein
Gastroenterologist and founder and managing director of IBD Africa
Karin Davidson
IBD nurse and IBD Africa board member
Catherine McCormack
Patient advocate
Arthritis Kids South Africa and Autoimmune Alliance of SA
Donate
The Autoimmune Alliance of South Africa is a registered nonprofit and public benefit organisation and can issue 18a tax certificates for your donation.
Bank deposit:
Autoimmune Alliance of South Africa
Bank: FNB
Account no. 63075413682
Branch code: 210214
Swift code: FIRNZAJJ
Donate securely through
If you have already donated and would like an 18a tax certificate, click here
