Bonn – September 10, 2026 -- The Deutsche Rheuma-Liga has released a free app called "Team Rheuma," available on the Apple App Store and Google Play since early September 2026. The app bundles the organization's digital services into one place, open to anyone interested regardless of membership status.
The app centralizes news, events, and patient connections
Users can access news, event listings, publications, and calls for clinical studies directly through the app. Push notifications alert users to new content so they don't have to check manually. Members can also read the association's magazine "mobil" within the app.
Corinna Elling-Audersch, President of the Deutsche Rheuma-Liga, said digital tools can meaningfully supplement in-person self-help efforts. She noted that staying in touch with fellow patients matters especially when in-person meetings aren't possible.
Chat and video features help patients who struggle to attend in-person meetings
The app includes digital workspaces and options for text or video exchange through open and closed channels, as well as one-on-one and group chats. Elling-Audersch pointed out that long travel distances, work or family obligations, limited mobility, fatigue, or a rheumatic flare can make attending local meetings difficult -- the app offers alternative ways to connect with other patients.
User feedback shaped the redesign, including push alerts and centralized content
The new version incorporates requests gathered from the previous exchange platform, particularly the demand for push notifications and a single hub for information and services. News and event listings are viewable immediately after download without a user profile. A profile is required, however, to access exchange features and the members-only section, meaning both new and returning users must register for those functions.
Volunteers are needed to moderate the app's discussion groups
The Rheuma-Liga is currently recruiting members to serve as volunteer community managers, moderating digital groups on specific topics, sparking conversation, and connecting patients with one another. Interested members can apply via community@rheuma-liga.de.