Discussion point

The number of arthritis patients is growing, yet the number of
rheumatologists (RD or rheumy) is dwindling.

45 mile trips take up to 2 hours in traffic.

2 or 3 days for a return call from a nurse.

New patients wait 3 months or more for an appointment.


What does the future hold?

Good news: number of new RDs went from 122 in 2000 to 168 in 2006.
Bad news: growth will be outpaced by the rate of retirement.
By 2005, there will be a shortage of 2,600 RS in the U.S.

Group appointments work well for educating patients, doing routine care, and answering questions. And group appointments provide patients an instant suppport group.

Pre-appointment management: A 2001 study of 279 patients referred to a RD from another doctor, only 59% needed to see one.


Do you have to wait too long or drive too far to see your RD? Try the online poll and tell your story at www.arthritis.org/arthritistoday.



.... Fluorologist: Floor washer with a college degree.
___ Blue Wave/QWK v2.12