A Rheumatologist is an internist or pediatrician with additional training and experience treating diseases of the bones, muscles, joints, some autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain disorders and osteoporosis.
Diagnosing RA can be a long and arduous venture for both patient and physician; therefore, it is important to have a good rapport with your Rheumatologist and feel comfortable discussing all aspects of your disease. To find a physician in your area, check with the American College of Rheumatology and be sure that he/she is:
A Team Player
Since RA and other arthritic diseases are chronic, treatment may last a lifetime. It is important to choose a doctor who gets along well with other healthcare professionals. If your Rheumatologist is located a great distance from your home, you may choose to see the specialist as a consultant periodically throughout the year while allowing your family physician to complete the monthly follow-up treatment. As the disease progresses, you may need treatment from occupational therapists, physical therapists, nurses, and psychologists. When your Rheumatologist works well with others who treat your illness, you will end up the ultimate winner.
A Good Listener
It doesn’t matter how experienced and educated a physician may be, if he isn’t a good listener you won’t receive the treatment you deserve. The best doctors are those who are good listeners, who understand that you are his best resource when it comes to measuring the effectiveness of his treatment plan. Look for a doctor who doesn’t seem rushed for time, answers your questions completely, and is willing to include your spouse or caregiver in the discussions. But remember, your Rheumatologist has many patients to see in a day so make the most of your visit by being prepared. Taking a list of questions and concerns to your appointment will ensure the success of your visit.
Willing To Speak With Patients On The Phone
As a Rheumatoid patient, you will experience unexpected flare-ups causing intense pain requiring immediate attention at inopportune times. The appearance of a swollen joint or nodule can be extremely distressing to a newly diagnosed patient.
Coping with a new illness is distressing and can cause fear in even the most educated patient. New medications may cause side effects that can require treatment or might be alleviated by a simple reassurance from the doctor. Therefore, it is imperative to find a Rheumatologist who will be available after hours, who will call in a prescription, and who is willing to return your call if necessary. This is especially important if you choose a Rheumatologist in another city; many times the emergency can be managed without an office visit, if the doctor is willing speak with you by phone.
Up-To-Date
New medical advancements are made daily and it is crucial that your Rheumatologist keeps up with the latest technology and treatments. Choose a doctor who is board certified and who regularly attends medical conventions. Consider employing a Rheumatologist at a teaching hospital; your physician will be current on new treatments and clinical trials. You will also benefit from the fresh eyes of an intern eager to impress his mentor.
An Approved Provider For Your Health Insurance
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that requires ongoing treatment. Therefore, you should first consider seeking treatment from a physician that participates in your health insurance plan. A doctor who is familiar with your health benefits can prescribe treatments that fall within the methods approved by your insurance. However, you should not choose a doctor only because he is recognized by your health insurance provider. If you are not comfortable with any of the in-network providers, consider paying extra to go out of the network—you are worth the investment.
Take the time to do your homework when choosing a Rheumatologist and don’t be afraid to visit several doctors until you find one with whom you are comfortable. Remember that Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic disease that you will battle for years to come, it is imperative that you feel like a partner in your treatment and not just a patient.
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