Services
Rheumatology is a specialty that diagnoses and treats rheumatic diseases. Doctors who specialize in rheumatology are called rheumatologists. Rheumatologists deal mainly with autoimmune issues that involve joints, soft tissues, vessels, which include blood vessels and connective tissues that can connect tissues and other organs. These diseases can cause swelling, stiffness and deformity.
An autoimmune disease occurs when your body’s immune system, which normally fights off disease, sends inflammation to areas of the body when it is not needed causing damage/symptoms. These diseases can affect the eyes, skin, nervous system and organs.
How do I make an appointment?
To make an appointment, you must first receive a referral from your primary care provider or another specialty clinic.
If you have any questions, please contact our clinic and we can work with you and your provider on the appropriate referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take me to be seen?
It usually takes two weeks after your referral is received to process and schedule your initial appointment. Before an appointment is scheduled, we need to review and request necessary health records, lab results, and imaging from your primary care provider/referring provider. Our clinic will contact you when we are ready to schedule your first appointment.
What should I expect at an initial visit with a rheumatologist?
Initial visits take one hour, preferably in person and usually include a history and physical examination, patient teaching, and may include lab work and X-ray imaging of your joints. Follow up visits are generally 30-45 minutes long.
Where is the Rheumatology Clinic located and how do I get there?
We are located within the Internal Medicine Clinic on the third floor of the Healthy Communities Building (HCB). The HCB is located at 3900 Ambassador Drive. A shuttle runs from the main hospital to the HCB frequently to help patients reach their appointments.
Clinic Hours and Contact Information
Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday
Phone: 907-729-1949
Fax: (907) 729-2082
Location: Healthy Communities Building
3900 Ambassador Drive, third floor
Patient Resources
American College of Rheumatology: https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver
Arthritis Foundation: www.arthritis.org
Lupus Foundation of America: http://www.lupus.org/
Spondylitis Association of America: http://www.spondylitis.org/
