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