Finding the right rheumatologist is one of the most important decisions you can make for your joint and autoimmune health. With Los Angeles County home to more than 10 million residents and a limited number of rheumatology specialists, navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you understand what to look for in a rheumatologist, what questions to ask, and how to prepare for your first appointment.
Why Rheumatology Matters in LA
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse metropolitan areas in the world, and this diversity has important implications for rheumatic disease. Certain autoimmune conditions, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, occur at higher rates in specific ethnic and racial groups that are well-represented in the LA population. Having access to a rheumatologist who understands these population-specific risks is essential for early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Despite the high demand for rheumatology services, LA County has a relative shortage of rheumatologists. With approximately 200 rheumatologists serving over 10 million residents, access to specialist care can be limited. Many patients face wait times of 30 days or more for a new appointment, making it important to seek referral promptly when symptoms arise rather than waiting for them to worsen.
The Los Angeles area does offer significant advantages for patients with rheumatic conditions, including access to world-class medical centers, ongoing clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments, and a community of experienced specialists. Taking advantage of these resources starts with finding a rheumatologist who is the right fit for your individual needs.
What to Look for in a Rheumatologist
When choosing a rheumatologist, look for a physician who is board-certified in both internal medicine and rheumatology. Board certification indicates that the doctor has completed rigorous training and passed comprehensive examinations in their specialty. Fellowship training in rheumatology, a two- to three-year program beyond internal medicine residency, provides the specialized expertise needed to diagnose and treat complex autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions.
Experience matters, particularly for less common conditions. A rheumatologist who has treated many patients with your specific condition will be better equipped to recognize nuances, anticipate complications, and customize treatment plans. Ask about the doctor's areas of particular interest or expertise, as some rheumatologists focus more on specific conditions like lupus, vasculitis, or spondyloarthritis.
Practical considerations are also important in your selection. Consider the office location and accessibility, available appointment hours, whether telehealth visits are offered, and which insurance plans are accepted. A rheumatologist whose office is conveniently located and whose schedule accommodates your needs will make it easier to maintain the regular follow-up that chronic conditions require.
Board Certification and Credentials
Board certification in rheumatology is awarded by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and requires physicians to complete an accredited fellowship in rheumatology followed by passing a rigorous certification examination. Maintaining board certification requires ongoing education and periodic re-examination, ensuring that certified rheumatologists stay current with advances in the field.
Beyond board certification, additional credentials can indicate a physician's commitment to excellence. Fellowship in the American College of Physicians (FACP) and Fellowship in the American College of Rheumatology (FACR) are designations that recognize distinguished contributions to patient care, education, or research in their respective fields.
You can verify a rheumatologist's board certification through the ABIM's online verification tool. Many state medical boards also provide information about a physician's license status, education, and any disciplinary actions. Taking the time to verify credentials gives you confidence that your specialist has the training and qualifications to provide expert care.
Questions to Ask at Your First Visit
Preparing questions in advance helps you make the most of your first rheumatology appointment. Start with questions about your diagnosis: What condition do you think I have? What tests do you recommend? How certain is the diagnosis, and are there other possibilities to consider? Understanding the diagnostic process sets the foundation for your ongoing care relationship.
Ask about the treatment plan: What are my treatment options? What are the potential benefits and side effects of recommended medications? How long before I can expect to see improvement? Understanding the rationale behind treatment decisions empowers you to participate actively in your care and make informed choices.
Practical questions about ongoing management are equally important. How often will I need follow-up visits? What symptoms should prompt me to call between appointments? Are there lifestyle modifications that can support my treatment? What should I do if I experience a flare? A rheumatologist who takes the time to answer these questions thoroughly is demonstrating the patient-centered approach that is essential for managing chronic conditions.
Insurance and Access Considerations
Insurance coverage is a critical factor in accessing rheumatology care. Before scheduling an appointment, confirm that the rheumatologist participates in your insurance plan. Rheumatology treatments, particularly biologic medications, can be expensive, and in-network coverage can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Your insurance company can provide a list of participating rheumatologists in the Los Angeles area.
If you are uninsured or underinsured, there are resources available to help. Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs that provide biologic medications at reduced cost or free of charge to qualifying patients. Community health centers in Los Angeles may also offer rheumatology services on a sliding fee scale based on income.
Prior authorization is commonly required by insurance companies for biologic medications and certain diagnostic tests. Your rheumatologist's office should have experience navigating the prior authorization process and can advocate on your behalf. Ask about the office's support services for insurance issues, as this administrative assistance can save you significant time and frustration.
Arthritis Care of Los Angeles
Arthritis Care of Los Angeles, led by Dr. Solomon Forouzesh, provides comprehensive rheumatology services to patients throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Dr. Forouzesh is a board-certified rheumatologist and internist with Fellowship designations in both the American College of Physicians (FACP) and the American College of Rheumatology (FACR), reflecting his commitment to the highest standards of patient care.
Our practice offers diagnosis and treatment for the full spectrum of rheumatic and autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, vasculitis, scleroderma, and many others. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools including in-office musculoskeletal ultrasound, comprehensive laboratory testing, and collaborative imaging services to ensure accurate and timely diagnosis.
We are committed to providing accessible, patient-centered care. Our office accepts a wide range of insurance plans, and our team assists with prior authorizations, patient assistance programs, and referral coordination. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments to accommodate the diverse needs of our patients throughout Los Angeles.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Coming to your first rheumatology appointment well-prepared helps ensure a thorough and productive evaluation. Bring a complete list of your current medications, including doses, as well as any supplements you take. If you have had previous blood work, imaging studies, or records from other doctors related to your joint symptoms, bring copies or have them sent to the office in advance.
Write down a timeline of your symptoms, noting when they started, which joints are affected, how they have changed over time, and any factors that make them better or worse. Include information about morning stiffness duration, fatigue levels, and any systemic symptoms like fevers or rashes. This detailed history is invaluable for your rheumatologist in formulating a diagnosis.
Finally, bring a list of questions you would like addressed during the visit and consider having a family member or friend accompany you. Having a second pair of ears can be helpful for remembering the information discussed, especially during a first visit when a lot of ground is covered. Your rheumatologist and their team want to make sure you leave the appointment with a clear understanding of the next steps in your care.
Key Statistics
10M+
Residents in Los Angeles County
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
~200
Rheumatologists serving Los Angeles County
Source: American College of Rheumatology Workforce Study
30+ Days
Average wait time for new rheumatology patients nationally
Source: Arthritis & Rheumatology
References
- Battafarano DF, Ditmyer M, Engel KG, et al.. 2015 American College of Rheumatology Workforce Study: Supply and Demand Projections of Adult Rheumatology Workforce, 2015-2030. Arthritis Care & Research. 2018. PMID: 29488709
- Engel-Nitz NM, Engel KG, Engel SS. Indirect costs and the economic burden of rheumatoid arthritis and access to rheumatology care. Journal of Medical Economics. 2019. PMID: 30698810
- Widdifield J, Bernatsky S, Engel KG, et al.. Association between rheumatologist visits and quality outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Care & Research. 2017. PMID: 28133981