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An official publication of the ACR and the ARP serving rheumatologists and rheumatology professionals

The Rheumatologist: January 2012

New Year, New Faces

Alexandra Schultz  |  

The Rheumatologist welcomes new editorial team

Rheum With a View

Richard S. Panush, MD  |  

Rituals, symbols, ceremony, and tradition

Give Rheumatology Patients a Helping Hand

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Nearly 10 million Americans suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that disables a key nerve in the wrist resulting in numbness, tingling, weakness, and loss of function in the hands and wrist. These symptoms are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic conditions, and it is important that patients know the difference.

Patient Fact Sheet: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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Carpal tunnel syndrome is possibly the most common nerve disorder experienced today. The carpal tunnel is located at the wrist on the palm side of the hand just beneath the skin surface (palmar surface). Eight small wrist bones form three sides of the tunnel, giving rise to the name carpal tunnel. The remaining side of the tunnel, the palmar surface, is composed of soft tissues, consisting mainly of a ligament called the transverse carpal ligament. This ligament stretches over the top of the tunnel.

Dos and Don’ts of Verifying Insurance Benefits

Melesia Tillman, CPC-I, CRHC, CHA  |  

Not verifying insurance benefits prior to rendering service can result in nonpayment, which affects your bottom line. Because this is a costly mistake that can be avoided, make it routine to verify eligibility prior to every patient visit.

Comprehensive Rheumatology Training Online

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Are you looking for a better rheumatology-focused, on-the-job training program for a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or other clinician? Do you and your colleagues want to continue building competence in the care of people with rheumatic disease? If so, the Advanced Rheumatology Course may be just what you need.

Welcome New ACR and ARHP Leaders

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The ACR is pleased to continue its welcome of the newest members of the ACR board of directors and ARHP executive committee. These new members were confirmed last November during the ACR/ARHP Annual Scientific Meeting in Chicago. In the December 2011 “From the College,” we introduced you to several new members (“Welcome New ACR and ARHP Leaders,”). In this issue, you will meet the rest of the new members joining the leadership ranks and learn what they want to gain from their experience as new board and executive committee members.

Be Part of the ARHP Team: Volunteer

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The ARHP is the premier professional organization for rheumatology health professionals primarily because of the talent and energy of its volunteers and staff. The ARHP needs both new and experienced volunteers to continue its mission, meet new challenges, and grow as an organization. Each and every ARHP member brings unique talents, abilities, and expertise to our organization, and we need your participation. Volunteer opportunities are available to all ARHP members, including international and associate members.

Practice Page: Building Your Referral Pool

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Building relationships with your referring physician pool and their staff should increase the number of quality referrals you receive. Rheumatologists and health professionals should personally introduce themselves to referring doctors in the community. Networking and increasing involvement within the community also builds your reputation and markets your services. Existing patients play a significant role because word of mouth is a powerful tool for referrals to your practice.

Dermatology Case Review

Joseph F. Merola, MD  |  

A 33-year-old woman presents with somewhat pruritic, nodular lesions worsening over the past three months in the site of a newly placed tattoo. The nodules are restricted to certain portions of the tattoo only.

Dermatology Case Answer

Joseph F. Merola, MD  |  

Figure 2: Hematoxylin and eosin stain from punch biopsy of lesional skin demonstrated sarcoidal granulomas, inflamed. Review the case… The correct answer is D) Sarcoidosis: This patient’s first presentation of sarcoidosis consisted of skin lesions that were sarcoidal granulomas localized to a single pigment color within her tattoo (note the red pigment areas only are affected)….

Help Patients Help Themselves

Kathleen Louden  |  

Learn motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral tools that can guide patients to improve their health

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