The word rheumatology and its counterpart, rheumatologist, are new to the English language. They didn’t exist 50 years ago. There were a relatively few physicians interested in rheumatologic disease, but not the science of rheumatology. The American College of Rheumatology was founded in 1988. A few of us still alive, notably, the centenarian Ephraim Engelman,…
What started out as a way to bring specialty medicine to rural areas around 40 years ago has evolved from sharing imaging and laboratory results to seeing and interacting with patients remotely. Telemedicine is beginning to evolve from its traditional urban–rural linkage, and rheumatologists are following along. “Telemedicine covers a variety of services, but it…
Dramatic changes have occurred over the past 50 years in rheumatology practice and management. As an integral part of the healthcare team, the rheumatology nurse must navigate these changes and the advancements in treatment options and care available for patients with rheumatic disease. Rheumatology nursing was recognized as a nursing specialty by the American Nurses…
How practicing clinicians can generate interest in rheumatology among medical students
Focus shifts from voluntary to punitive; makes business associates more accountable for breaches of personal health information
Survey lets physicians compare questionnaire responses with regional, national averages
Growing number of specialists explore membership-based medicine model to help stabilize practice costs, improve patient satisfaction
A rheumatologist voices skepticism that physicians, patients can arrive at mutually shared healthcare decisions
Stress-coping techniques for physicians under strain of healthcare industry changes
A patient case [The Rheumatologist, May 2014], emphasizes importance of good communication among multiple healthcare providers