Successes, challenges, and controversies of diagnostic methods for APS
New Year, New Faces
The Rheumatologist welcomes new editorial team
ACR Honors Contributions to Rheumatology
Rheumatologists recognized for their work in the field
Data-Driven, Optimal Patient Care and Clinical Research
Expanded opportunities to advance rheumatology will be offered by ACR’s ongoing registry efforts
Are Your Ads Violating the Law?
While advertising is a great way to promote your practice, be sure to avoid legal pitfalls
Rheum With a View
Rituals, symbols, ceremony, and tradition
A Short History of Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics
Or, why I chose to become a rheumatologist
The Sexiness of Rheumatology
Finding the glamour in a humble field
Give Rheumatology Patients a Helping Hand
Nearly 10 million Americans suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that disables a key nerve in the wrist resulting in numbness, tingling, weakness, and loss of function in the hands and wrist. These symptoms are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic conditions, and it is important that patients know the difference.
Patient Fact Sheet: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is possibly the most common nerve disorder experienced today. The carpal tunnel is located at the wrist on the palm side of the hand just beneath the skin surface (palmar surface). Eight small wrist bones form three sides of the tunnel, giving rise to the name carpal tunnel. The remaining side of the tunnel, the palmar surface, is composed of soft tissues, consisting mainly of a ligament called the transverse carpal ligament. This ligament stretches over the top of the tunnel.
Dos and Don’ts of Verifying Insurance Benefits
Not verifying insurance benefits prior to rendering service can result in nonpayment, which affects your bottom line. Because this is a costly mistake that can be avoided, make it routine to verify eligibility prior to every patient visit.
Health Policy Outlook for 2012
What’s in Store for Rheumatology in 2012?
Coding Corner Question: Eligibility Quiz for Front Office Staff
January’s Coding Challenge
Comprehensive Rheumatology Training Online
Are you looking for a better rheumatology-focused, on-the-job training program for a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or other clinician? Do you and your colleagues want to continue building competence in the care of people with rheumatic disease? If so, the Advanced Rheumatology Course may be just what you need.
Coding Corner Answer: Eligibility Quiz for Front Office Staff
January’s Coding Answer
Welcome New ACR and ARHP Leaders
The ACR is pleased to continue its welcome of the newest members of the ACR board of directors and ARHP executive committee. These new members were confirmed last November during the ACR/ARHP Annual Scientific Meeting in Chicago. In the December 2011 “From the College,” we introduced you to several new members (“Welcome New ACR and ARHP Leaders,”). In this issue, you will meet the rest of the new members joining the leadership ranks and learn what they want to gain from their experience as new board and executive committee members.
Incoming ACR Volunteers
Karen Kolba, MD and Robert A. Colbert, MD, PhD
Incoming ARHP Volunteers
Laurie Hughell, PA- C, MPH and Susan Richmond, MS, PA-C
Be Part of the ARHP Team: Volunteer
The ARHP is the premier professional organization for rheumatology health professionals primarily because of the talent and energy of its volunteers and staff. The ARHP needs both new and experienced volunteers to continue its mission, meet new challenges, and grow as an organization. Each and every ARHP member brings unique talents, abilities, and expertise to our organization, and we need your participation. Volunteer opportunities are available to all ARHP members, including international and associate members.
Practice Page: Building Your Referral Pool
Building relationships with your referring physician pool and their staff should increase the number of quality referrals you receive. Rheumatologists and health professionals should personally introduce themselves to referring doctors in the community. Networking and increasing involvement within the community also builds your reputation and markets your services. Existing patients play a significant role because word of mouth is a powerful tool for referrals to your practice.
Dermatology Case Review
A 33-year-old woman presents with somewhat pruritic, nodular lesions worsening over the past three months in the site of a newly placed tattoo. The nodules are restricted to certain portions of the tattoo only.
Dermatology Case Answer
Figure 2: Hematoxylin and eosin stain from punch biopsy of lesional skin demonstrated sarcoidal granulomas, inflamed. Review the case… The correct answer is D) Sarcoidosis: This patient’s first presentation of sarcoidosis consisted of skin lesions that were sarcoidal granulomas localized to a single pigment color within her tattoo (note the red pigment areas only are affected)….
Chronic Osteoarthritic Pain Causes Brain Changes
Theory of condition-specific ‘brain signature’ sparks controversy
Help Patients Help Themselves
Learn motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral tools that can guide patients to improve their health
Foot Pain a Burden for Rheumatology Patients
Researchers say it may even correlate with back, hip, and knee pain
Opening a New Therapeutic Window for Rheumatoid Arthritis
New targets in rheumatoid arthritis: SYK, JAK, BTK
Quality Measurement Improves Rheumatology Outcomes
Innovations in health information technology can have significant impact
Drug Updates: Apremilast, Belimumab, and More
Information on new approvals and medication safety