Rheumatologist Fellow Works in India Via ACR Exchange Program

The exchange also has given me an entirely new perspective into international health. I would highly encourage current fellows to apply for the ACR International Visiting Fellows Exchange Program.

I plan to implement the following into my own practice:

1. Resist technology’s interference with direct patient care. Optimize my EMR so I can spend more face-to-face time with patients.
2. Try to understand patients’ spiritual and religious beliefs.
3. Ask patients about alternative medications and encourage an open discussion.
4. Remember the primary reason I entered medicine and practice empathy.
5. Interact more with colleagues, have face-to-face discussions, share down time and foster in-person friendships. Have a collaborative attitude, rather than a competitive attitude.
6. Seek help with patient care, if needed, and be curious and open. Always feel free to consult with other colleagues in case of a diagnostic dilemma.
7. Continually evaluate myself for self-improvement and knowledge advancement.
8. Take time to devote to personal interests including family and hobbies to prevent burnout.

Rajat Bhatt, MD, completed his rheumatology fellowship in 2018 and is board certified in both rheumatology and internal medicine. He is now a community rheumatologist with Providence Health Systems/Kadlec Medical Center, Richland, Wash.