How to Choose a Good Rheumatologist

Rheumatologists treat a variety of conditions that affect the joints, muscles and connective tissues. One of the most common conditions treated by rheumatologists is arthritis. There are hundreds of forms of arthritis, and rheumatologists must be knowledgeable about each of them and about many other painful conditions. When choosing a new rheumatologist, you need to find someone you can trust and who will make a commitment to improving your quality of life.

Instructions

• 1

  Start your search for a good rheumatologist by talking to your primary care physician. Your primary care physician can give you a recommendation for a good rheumatologist who she knows and trusts. She can also give you important information about the rheumatologist, such as where he went to medical school and whether he's certified. Certification for rheumatologists is offered by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

• 2

  Contact your insurance company to find out which rheumatologists in your area are covered by your plan. Ask your primary care physician if she knows any of the rheumatologists on the list and whether she would recommend any of them. Contact the rheumatologists' offices directly to find out if they're accepting new patients and to ask any questions you might have. Find out if they're certified by contacting the American Board of Internal Medicine.

• 3

  Find out if the rheumatologist you're considering seeing is a member of any professional organizations, such as the American College of Rheumatology, the Primary Care Rheumatology Society, or the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals. Active members of these types of organizations must adhere to ethical and professional standards and are often in favor of continuing education for physicians and advanced research practices.