Find a good rheumatologist and a good primary doctor. You need both.

Hi CrystalLee, yes you should have a primary doctor. A rheumatologist is a specialist. They don’t cover every situation. I personally have numerous different doctors. Primary, rheumatologist, bone and joint, pulmonologist, and oncologist. Except for my rheumatologist, all the others are with the same hospital. I also have a surgeon that works with my bone and joint specialist. Even my rheumatologist is included when anything changes with the doctors from the other facility. That is key. Always make sure they’re willing to work together, share info, and have your care as their main concern.

I think everyone needs a primary care physician. They monitor your whole body health and look for any abnormalities. They can notice changes that the patient doesn't even realize. They can catch any illnesses early and treat more easily. I have a PCP along with cardiologist, Rheumatologist, hematologist and pulmonologist.

I agree with Veronica you need a primary doctor for everything else that doesn't apply to RA. If you have the flue, covid, sinus problems etcccc.

Hi 🤗 I think you should have a primary dr in addition to Ra dr. When I was very ill it’s primary that will prescribe antibiotics etc … I’m considering taking mounjaro for weight loss. My ra dr told me it won’t interfere with the Ra meds I take but she won’t prescribe it. Primary doctor would have to prescribe etc …