Karen Appold is an award-winning journalist based in Lehigh Valley, Pa. She earned a B.A. in English (writing) from Penn State University and has more than 20 years of editorial experience. Karen has been a full-time freelance medical writer and editor since 2003. She works for a variety of medical organizations, businesses and media.
By the time Kelly Conway was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in 2007, she had already been living with symptoms of the disease for 23 years. Her first symptom appeared when she was 14—knee pain that was incorrectly diagnosed as tendonitis. Over the years, she has experienced fevers and sore joints. She was diagnosed with…
In a rheumatology practice, registered nurses take on multiple roles, from administrative tasks to engaging in patient support and assessment. They can aid rheumatologists and help provide the best care to patients…
With their ability to provide treatment and manage chronic illnesses, nurse practitioners can aid rheumatologists in the care of their patients…
Patients newly diagnosed with a rheumatic disease may have difficulty coping and require help beyond the rheumatology clinic. A licensed psychologist can help these patients manage their anxiety and depression through counseling…
With advanced training and education, a clinical nurse specialist can be a valuable member of a patient’s healthcare team and a rheumatologist’s practice, acting as an extension of the rheumatologist to ensure a patient’s needs are met…
Patients with rheumatic disease require a team of specialists working together to meet the patient’s needs. Social workers can advocate for these patients and play a variety of other roles to help them manage their disease…
As the shortage of rheumatologists is expected to worsen, practices and fellowship programs are asking how to attract top talent. Here are tips for how individuals can raise rheumatology’s profile and reach out to med students and new rheumatologists…
Patient-centered care requires increased communication and a proactive patient. But how does it benefit a rheumatology practice? According to Stanford Shoor, MD, patient-centered care offers a team-based approach that can improve satisfaction in care and positively affect RA-specific outcomes…
Patients with severe RA can struggle with walking, getting dressed, carrying items and more, all of which can negatively affect their quality of life. But according to Bharat Kumar, MD, service dogs can help RA patients by providing both physical and emotional support, aiding patient mobility and quality of life…
Receiving an RA diagnosis may be emotional and difficult for patients. By engaging the patient in learning about the disease and its treatment options, as well as cultivating a communicative relationship, rheumatologists can truly help a patient take control of their health…