Rheumatologists are specialized healthcare providers that treat various autoimmune diseases and musculoskeletal conditions, including all types of arthritis. A rheumatologist is a doctor who has expertise in treating arthritis and other diseases related to bones, muscles, and joints. If you are a Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patient looking for the best rheumatologists near you to manage the condition better, here are some tips that can help you choose the right one.

Ask your primary care physician
Before you start your looking for specialists, first ask your primary healthcare provider for a referral. The primary care physician would know your health history, the reasons and causes of the condition, the treatment plan, and other important information that they can share with the rheumatologist if needed. Hence, taking your physician’s help to find the right rheumatologist is the best option.

Ask your relatives or friends
If your family and friends are aware of your condition, you can ask them for recommendations. A recommended doctor helps in building trust and credibility, making you comfortable through the treatment process.

Read reviews and research
You can do your research by reading the reviews of other patients on the many online forums that are available. There are multiple pages available on the websites of hospitals and healthcare facilities that provide information about the doctors available. Finding the right rheumatologist after going through their credentials is also helpful. The American College of Rheumatology also has a search feature on its website – “Find a Rheumatologist,” which could help you find a doctor. If you are reading reviews to find the best rheumatologists, you should ensure that you are using genuine reviewing websites.

Check the doctor’s credentials
Another significant factor when looking for a specialist near you is to check their credentials, like Board Certification. This will help you determine if a particular doctor has the right skills, training, and experience in treating rheumatic conditions. Also, ensure that you check whether the doctor has any history of disciplinary action or malpractice claims against them. State websites could help you find the details about a doctor’s training hospital, certifications, schooling, and corrective actions.

Experience matters
When dealing with any rheumatic condition, if it is a complex case, it is significant to consider the doctor’s experience. A more experienced doctor might be able to provide better treatment as they have worked with various patients throughout their careers. Hence, experience is a factor that could impact your decision when looking for the best rheumatologists.

Analyze communication style
Try to find and choose a rheumatologist with whom you are comfortable to talk about your condition and issues. Analyze and evaluate their communication style and when you first meet the doctor, notice how they respond to your concerns and queries. Find a rheumatologist who will respect your decision to choose them and is more concerned about knowing you and your healthcare concerns.

Insurance coverage
Insurance coverage is practical, so finding a rheumatologist who is included in your plan is a good option to get insurance benefits.

Some practical considerations
There are also some practical considerations one needs to look into when searching for a rheumatologist near your locality, such as doctor’s office hours, location, and staff. In addition to being nearby, the office hours should also be convenient. Helpful and cordial staff would also make you feel welcome and at ease.

Check about telehealth capabilities
Telehealth is the way to treat patients with telecommunications technology that consists of email, smartphones, and two-way videos. Telehealth can be a convenient option for routine check-ups and dealing with minor concerns.

The best rheumatologists nearby
Some names that you might come across in your search for the “best rheumatologists near me” are:

• Dr. Cindy V Johnston
  Dr. Cindy V Johnston specializes in Rheumatology. She has extensive experience in Rheumatology, Osteoporosis and Screening, and Arthritis & Arthropathy and has an affiliation with Sarasota Memorial Health Care System.
• Dr. Kelly O. Weselman
  Dr. Weselman has been practicing for more than twenty years. Her leading areas of expertise are psoriatic arthritis, mixed connective tissue disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and necrotizing vasculitis. Her affiliations are Wellstar Windy Hill Hospital, Wellstar Cobb Hospital, and Wellstar Douglas Hospital, among others.
• Dr. Lesley A. Saketkoo
  Dr. Saketkoo has been practicing rheumatology for the last twenty years and has expertise in treating conditions such as neurosarcoidosis, sarcoidosis, scleroderma, and systemic sclerosis. Her hospital affiliations are Touro Infirmary, Tulane Medical Center, Tulane Lakeside Hospital, and many more.

A rheumatologist plays a central role in your care and support for the long term. Take your time to choose the best rheumatologists and schedule an interview to learn all the details about them and whether they would be able to treat your condition well. Make sure you also check their facilities and the staff to get the best care for the condition.