OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the socio-economic impact of chronic autoimmune diseases, mainly rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and work disabilities, among patients in Slovakia. METHODS: Patients were prospectively recruited in the National Institute for Rheumatic Diseases in 2014 – 2015 and the data were collected through specifically designed questionnaire. Research was prepared and consulted with relevant patient organization League against Rheumatism in Slovakia. RESULTS: The sample (200 respondents) was predominantly female (57%) with diagnosis of RA (66%) followed by ankylosing spondylitis (17%). As many as 65% of the patients became permanently work disabled at the average age of 41, with full work disability being more common (36%) than partial disability (30%). The occurrence of sick leaves within preceding 12 months among actively working was 52% with an average length of 51 days. Three most frequently reported areas negatively affected by the disease: social activities (reported by 65% respondents), professional career (53%) and quality of a relationship with their partner (25%). Twenty-five percent of respondents had to change their jobs due to the disease. Average personal expenses of the treatment in the preceding 3 months were 76€, traveling costs in the first place. Despite disease stabilization in the sample majority, 70% of respondents stated restrictive (51%) or very restrictive (19%) impact of the disease on their overall functioning. In the preceding week, strenuous activities and sports became the most limited. The support from patient organizations wasn’t perceived significant. Areas that have improved compared to the period of patients starting their treatment: communication with healthcare personnel (80%), more effective therapies available (65%). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed significant impact of the rheumatic diseases on work capabilities and socio-economic status. The results of the research were presented and discussed with the patient community and rheumatologists and on their respective conferences.