Our world, from the molecular to the multidimensional levels, is composed of systems that intersect with one another in marvelous and unexpected ways. Rheumatologists have long observed and intuitively understood these on multiple levels. With advances in the way we understand and interact with these systems, rheumatologists are well equipped to take advantage of these changes in the interests of our patients. So what is a rheumatologist in the 21st century? A rheumatologist is fundamentally an advocate, looking for solutions within systems—musculoskeletal, immunological and, now, governmental.
Bharat Kumar, MD, MME, FACP, FAAAAI, RhMSUS, is the director of the rheumatology fellowship training program at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, and the physician editor of The Rheumatologist. Follow him on X @BharatKumarMD.
