National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)

Membership

NORD is a federation of individuals and patient organizations representing the nearly 30-million Americans who have rare diseases. Its members include patients and their families, caregivers, medical professionals, researchers, social workers, teachers, and others who have an interest in rare diseases and their treatments. Approximately, 150 organizations representing people with specific rare diseases or groups of diseases are also members of NORD.

Major Areas or Mission Statement

NORD is dedicated to improving the lives of people with rare disorders and assisting the organizations that serve them. It is committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and patient services.

Landmark Contributions

NORD was established in 1983 by the leaders of patient organizations who worked together to provide advocacy for the Orphan Drug Act. This legislation provides financial incentives to encourage companies to...