Depending on your location, keying “rheumatologist near me” into the search box could return almost any results. If you’re in a smaller community, you may see nothing at all. In a larger city, you may have so many options it’s difficult to choose. If you’re in the greater Chicago area, searching for a good rheumatologist could bring you to the Dedication Health site.
What Is a Rheumatologist?
Rheumatology is a specialty area dedicated to the treatment of musculoskeletal and rheumatic diseases.While many simply associate these specialists with the care of arthritis, there is a number of diseases which can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and deformity in bones, muscles, and joints. A rheumatologist treats them all.
Some rheumatologists are pediatricians who have undergone additional training, and these individuals only treat children who have the associated conditions. Adults will see an internist, also known as an internal medicine specialist, who has undergone an additional 1-3 years of schooling in order to hold the title.
Where Do I Find Someone Who Specializes in Rheumatology?
Most people are referred by their primary care physician. In these cases, the doctors tend to already have a good working relationship, and the primary care physician offers the referral because he feels the patient needs specialist care. Sometimes people search for one on their own because they’re unsatisfied with the treatment they’re getting from a primary care physician and want a second opinion from a specialist. In these cases, recommendations from insurance companies, friends and family, or review sites can help.
How Can I Tell if a Rheumatologist is Good?
Oftentimes, you’ll find positive remarks across the web about a particularly skilled specialist. But if you really want to know, you’ll need to meet him or her in person. A few things to look for include:
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Quick and easy scheduling
- Additional services on site
- Minimal wait times in-office
- The physician asks questions and listens to your answers
- You receive the time you need in-office to feel confident about your care
- You can follow up directly with your physician if you have questions or concerns later
Dedication Health: Your Rheumatologist in Chicago
Dedication Health operates much differently than other practices do. We’re a concierge medical practice and our motto is “patient-focused care”. That means we do everything in our power to serve you better. We have minimal wait times to get in, no in-office waiting, a host of advanced diagnostic services on site, and specialist care, including rheumatologist. Because we’re concierge, our patients also enjoy perks like 24/7 access to their physician, concierge parking, and well-appointed patient care suites. In order to ensure your doctor has all the time you need with him and can get in with ease, we also limit the number of patients we accept. To reserve your spot or learn more about the benefits we offer, speak with our practice manager Christine at 847-986-6770 or complete our online form and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.
Learn more about Dr. John Croghan. Dr. Croghan is triple board certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, and geriatric medicine.