Rheumatoid Arthritis: Working With Your Doctor

Studies have shown that people with rheumatoid arthritis who see a rheumatologist regularly (several times a year) do better than people who visit erratically or not at all. The first step is finding one!

• Your primary care doctor can refer you to a rheumatologist. If you like your doctor and have a good relationship, chances are good you'll get along with the rheumatologist your doctor recommends.
• You may be able to see a rheumatologist directly without a referral; check your insurance plan and its list of providers.
• Ask around: someone you know may have had a good experience and be able to recommend a rheumatologist.
• The American College of Rheumatology (www.rheumatology.org) maintains a national database of members. Go to their web site and click on "Find a Rheumatologist."

In many parts of the country, rheumatologists are in short supply. Even if you feel like the situation with your own rheumatologist could be better, don't stop going. Either try to find a way to work through the problems, or continue your regular visits while you search for a new rheumatologist.

Regular visits to a rheumatologist are your "early warning system" for rheumatoid arthritis. Because this is a long-term disease, it's important to catch any changes early.

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