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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

For those with RA, do you see a Rheumatologist or regular primary care/family MD?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Bridgewater, MA
April 2, 2016
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly agreed that seeing a rheumatologist is essential for managing rheumatoid arthritis, noting that specialists stay... Read more

Members overwhelmingly agreed that seeing a rheumatologist is essential for managing rheumatoid arthritis, noting that specialists stay current on new medications, research, and treatment options in ways that primary care doctors often cannot. Several members shared that they see both a rheumatologist and primary care physician who coordinate together, with one member emphasizing the value of finding a proactive rheumatologist who uses tools like ultrasound for precision. A recurring challenge was insurance barriers that force some members to rely solely on primary care despite preferring specialist treatment, with many expressing frustration that access to quality care should not depend on coverage.

A myRAteam Member

I see a Rheumatologist. I have seen 4 of them and I am finally happy with the one I work with as she is proactive, is up on research, is at times interviewed for RA articles, and uses ultrasound for diagnostic evaluation and when giving me steroid injections so she doesn't go into my shoulder blind. I encourage you to see the type of Dr. you feel can best treat you and you.

April 9, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Rheumatologist. A GP is not certified in rheumatology and might not know all the ins and outs of the disease. I wouldn't recommend relying on a GP to treat you.

April 3, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I see a Rheumatologist

April 2, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I see a rheumatologist too. I'm relocating to Massachusetts next month and will be looking for a new specialist. I'm just curious about others.....seems like more and more people are seeing general practitioners today! For something like autoimmune, to me, it's best to see a specialist.....of course insurance can be an issue (shouldn't be, but that's another discussion!)

April 10, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Yes that is what I do. I see both drs

April 5, 2016

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