BRIEFING PAPER

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.

For additional information, contact the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals, 2200 Lake Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30319, (404) 633-3777.

Revised 2001-2002 Professional Papers Task Force
Approved by ARHP Executive Committee, October 2002, New Orleans