Whether you were referred by another healthcare provider for a consultation, or you are initiating a visit to see a rheumatologist, you will be scheduled for a new patient visit.
Qualified & Dedicated Rheumatologists
The rheumatologists at ARA are board-certified in Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. For over thirty years, their colleagues and patients have relied on their medical expertise, especially in treating rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, spondylo-arthropathies, back pain, neck pain, systemic lupus, and other connective tissue diseases. Patients benefit from the collective expertise of ARA physicians who meet frequently and discuss patient cases, new drug treatment protocols, and promising research.
As part of their continuing medical education, they regularly attend and participate in local and national symposia and conferences. ARA physicians contribute to the community by teaching medical students, interns, residents, and fellows from the Georgetown, George Washington, University of Maryland Schools of Medicine, and the National Institutes of Health. They also provide lectures to other physicians at regional, national and international symposia, and at area hospitals, as well as conduct community seminars on arthritis and rheumatic diseases.
Philosophy of Care
Treating the total person, not just the disease, is the underlying philosophy at ARA. To this end, physicians consider a disease’s social and emotional impact as they develop treatment plans. They encourage patients to express concerns, ask questions and stay informed. Our physicians know that patients who understand their condition and participate in treatment decisions are more likely and better able to follow treatment plans.
A Team Approach to Care
Each office has its own laboratory, x-ray machine, DXA, infusion center, and physical therapy in each location except in Olney, Frederick, and Fairfax. Certified medical assistants, physical therapists, nurses (including infusion nurses and our triage nurse team), x-ray technologists, and front office staff, work with physicians to form the patient care team at ARA. Together they coordinate all diagnostic work and treatment. This gives patients the comfort of knowing there is always someone who can answer questions and provide assistance if their physician is not readily available.
At the end of your visit, one of our staff members will assist with billing questions, provide you with any necessary prescriptions or referrals for additional testing or care that the physician may order.