The role of the
rheumatologist is to diagnose, treat, and medically manage individuals
with rheumatic disorders. Rheumatologists assume the responsibility of
caring for individuals with rheumatologic disorders that are often
complex. The rheumatologist interacts with the patient and family as a
resource for health information and as a collaborator with other
health care providers.
The rheumatologist assesses the
following:
- signs and symptoms of systemic
involvement
- joint disorders · need for
orthopedic or corrective intervention
- need for hospitalization for medical
management
- mental well-being · level of
independence
- result of advanced laboratory and
radiological examinations
- necessity of referrals to other
health care providers
What Does a Rheumatologist Do?
The rheumatologist aims to provide
optimal cost-effective medical care to promote the highest level of
quality of life for each individual with rheumatologic disorders
across the life span. Toward this aim, the rheumatologist advocates
for the patient in all aspects of health care, the community, and in
the legislative arena. The rheumatologist educates the patient,
family, and community, teaching not only medical information, but also
techniques for preventing disability, coping mechanisms for chronic
disorders, behavioral therapy for improving quality of life,
medication regimes, and rehabilitative functions. The rheumatologist
is a member of the health care team, referring and receiving referrals
from all team members.
Where Do Rheumatologists Work?
Rheumatologists provide care in a
variety of health care settings, including medical, surgical, and
rehabilitation hospital units, private office practice, managed care
practice, outpatient clinics, and transitional care units.
What Kind of Training Do
Rheumatologists Have?
Several levels of education are
required for rheumatologists: a bachelor’s degree (four years of
college), medical degree (four years of medical school), completion of
an internal medical residency program, and a rheumatology fellowship
program. This preparation allows the rheumatologist to become board
certified in rheumatology.
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