When you have a condition as potentially debilitating as arthritis, it's crucial to take the time to find the right rheumatologist to oversee your care. Rheumatologists specialize in arthritis of all kinds. While your primary-care doctor may be able to treat your arthritis, he or she may not be as knowledgeable about the newest developments and treatments of this disease. It's worth it to find someone who is.
If you already have a rheumatologist but need to find a new one because of a move, your first step should be to ask your current rheumatologist for a recommendation. If you've never worked with a rheumatologist, your primary-care doctor should be able to provide you with a few names. You can also contact the American College of Rheumatology for a list of names in your area, or check the web sites of local hospitals. Your next step? Make an appointment. Don't assume that just because a rheumatologist came personally recommended by your family doctor or your best friend, or has an office right down the road from you, that he or she will be perfect for you. You need to do a little legwork before making your decision.
First, make an appointment as a new patient. During your first visit, ask the doctor how much time he or she spends treating patients who have the same type of arthritis you do. If the doctor is quite familiar with your condition, that's a good sign. Ask your doctor informed questions that show you'll be someone he or she can work well with. Are you clicking with this doctor? If you feel it, chances are the doctor feels it also and will be an invaluable partner and advocate for you in handling your arthritis.
Second, ask the doctor about his or her credentials, and then confirm them. Look for board certification, which means they have completed years of training and passed a rigorous exam. You may also search for the doctor online to see if patient reviews pop up. If many positive ones pop up, that's a good sign that your rheumatologist is skilled and easy to work with. Many negatives are a red flag that perhaps this rheumatologist isn't the best choice.
Source:
Arthritis Foundation
www.arthritistoday.org
My Family Doctor magazine
www.familydoctormag.com.
