Clinical Associate

• The rheumatologist educates the patient, family, and community, teaching not only medical information, but also techniques for preventing disability, coping mechanisms for chronic disorders, behavioral therapy for improving quality of life, medication, and rehabilitative functions.

- The rheumatologist evaluates the following:

• signs and symptoms of systemic involvement

• joint disorders

• need for orthopedic or corrective intervention

• need for hospitalization for medical management

• mental well-being

• level of independence

• result of advanced laboratory and radiological examinations

necessity of referrals to other health care providers