This thread has been added to encourage forum users to post suggestions for new topics of discussion, any thing they would like to see changed about the forum layout etc, or any other ideas you feel relevant.

Going.....???? More like gone mad Julie

I don't think that's a good idea, this is an RA forum.
There are other forums for other conditions, we don't want to confuse things for new members.
Private messaging was abused and I don't think we should get it back, I feel at the moment that would still happen.

Doreen xx

Dear BarbieGirl and Calmwater22,

The suggestions regarding the Consultants and Related Conditions are great, and NRAS will get them both set up next week. Thank you for these.
As for an area for undiagnosed members, I think this may have to be revisited at another time. The reason for this is that currently NRAS do not generally get people sign up as members until they are diagnosed, so at the moment there is not going to be a huge demand, it is however definitely something to keep in mind.

NRAS unfortunately are unable to reinstate the Private messenger service. The reason for this is that it was bought to their attention that they would be liable for anything posted through this service, but as they were not able to moderate or even see the posts, it was decided to remove it.
NRAS are happy to pass contact information on for you, if you would like to contact another member.

Keep those suggestions coming in!

Moderator1

Dear moderator 1,

We already have "other discussions" where we talk about other conditions, some related to RA, some not, and this tends to keep it all in one place, so less confusing for new members.

Occasionally new members post in the wrong place and they are in danger of being missed , or not welcomed to the forum.
When this happens are you able to move the post to the correct thread, eg "New Members" ?
This would be a big help as we like to make sure the new ones get a friendly welcome to the forum and it's a shame if their post gets buried in with some other topic and not everyone sees it.

Thankyou.

Doreen xx

Dear Moderator 1,

For what its worth and at the risk of sounding pedantic, I'd like some clarification please as to:-

1. Regarding naming Consultants, is this limited solely to Rheumatologists, or can it be interpreted to include any health professional in the Rheumatology field? Are negative comments allowed as well as positive, or would this breach libel laws?

2. Related conditions - with RA being a systemic disease, this topic could potentially be endless, would you draw the line and where?

3. Undiagnosed members - You say, " NRAS do not generally get people sign up as members until they are diagnosed, so at the moment there is not going to be a huge demand". Does this prevent partners/friends/family of RA patients from joining or can anyone join regardless of whether they have RA? I agree there wouldn't be much demand for an "undiagnosed area" as most people either wouldn't know they might have RA, or wouldn't go to the trouble and expense of joining a forum until they had a firm diagnosis.

4. Moderator 1 - this sounds very cold and impersonal and not in keeping with the the remainder of the NRAS site. Could you and Moderator 2 (if he or she exists) please identify yourselves in a more welcoming manner.

Many thanks,

Yours faithfully,

Tabbycat

Edited to include:

5. How often is the forum moderated? Is it moderated 24/7, or limited to Monday to Friday during office hours?

Having a go at the 'moderate'button

Thanks
yes see what all mean got other disussions ,where to draw line what to include,see also point undiagnosed.
so no pm.

no more ideas hear.
sure others may have......

Calmwater22

No its not a good idea .I have overlaps some related to R.A some because the iummue systym is wonkey some because my body does not work .And not related
But too see me i look fine .And on hardley any drugs as MTX does it all .And moblie .But i have bath aids perching chair and a wheelchair as had too use them .Everyone is differant .One overlap is rare and luckey to have a rummie who has seen it and has treated it before .Some related things don,t show on blood tests and show up as something else .Some times one thing can flare sometimes it all can flare or one can be the domatite one .
My R.A apps i now have double ups 2 docs as they are not sure .And one masks the other .No its not a good idea to discus on here .Its better to enjoy what good days i have .Not trying to explain somthing a doc can,t explain fully .As its tricky balance .
Please no not on here thanks