Vanessa Caceres is a freelance medical writer and editor based in Florida. She has a BA in journalism and psychology and a Master's degree in teaching English as a second language/bilingual education. She writes regularly for ophthalmology and rheumatology physician publications, as well as other specialties.
Although research is still emerging, evidence suggests changes in climate, such as increases in heat, pollution and allergens, may increase the risk of flare and hospitalization in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and other rheumatic conditions. Paul Dellaripa, MD, discussed the research and how rheumatologists can help their patients.
Howard Schubiner, MD, shares what led him to focus on the mind-body connection during an episode of the ACR on Air podcast. He discusses recent research into how pain reprocessing may help patients suffering from psychological-related chronic pain.
“As a resident, [I] felt pretty terrible when [we had] a very sick child and the teams [couldn’t] agree on what to do,” said Lauren Henderson, MD, MMS, on an episode of ACR on Air. She discussed the importance of collaboration across specialties in the identification and treatment of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS).
For one Oregon rheumatologist, community practice offers a rewarding mix of patient care, teaching and family time.
Benjamin Widener, MD, FACP, has found a niche in community practice rheumatology in his hometown in Wyoming. As the lone rheumatologist serving the community, he has the opportunity to develop lasting therapeutic relationships.
Implicit bias can affect patient care at the physician level when they’re making treatment decisions and at the healthcare organization level when they’re choosing new hires. Here are insights into strategies rheumatologists can use to become aware of, and question, their implicit biases.
Regaining a sense of control, limiting responsibilities and engaging in mindfulness can help rheumatologists manage their mental health needs. Rheumatologists should also address the mental health concerns raised by their patients. Here are insights from a psychiatrist/rheumatologist.
Despite challenges, private practice has many rewards, such as more autonomy, says Tien-I Karleen Su, MD, FACR, chair of the ACR’s Community Practice Council.
Community practice rheumatology brings with it certain challenges, but it also offers rewards, such as autonomy and the capacity to develop deep relationships with patients. Three rheumatologists discuss the challenges and rewards of private practice.
In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, confusion and concern for immunosuppressed patients grew among rheumatologists and patients alike. Research has helped bridge the knowledge gap, and treatment options for COVID-19 have helped ease concerns.