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The waiting period to see a rheumatologist for the first time can be really long in Canada. In my new article for the Canadian CreakyJoints site, I look at how you can prepare to improve the appointment and start building a relationship with your doctor:

“The waiting period between hearing from your family doctor you might have rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and seeing a rheumatologist for the first time can be difficult. You might be coping with anxiety about possibly having a chronic illness, trying to manage your symptoms, feeling frustrated at the wait time, and worrying about what will happen when the day of your appointment finally arrives. It’s easy to feel helpless in this situation; as if like nothing is in your control. And though that is true to an extent (after all, you can’t control what’s happening in your body or the health care system), there are steps you can take during the waiting period to prepare for your first visit with the rheumatologist, which can make it a more successful appointment and help build a relationship with your new doctor.

First, a few things to keep in mind as you endure the waiting game. The first appointment with a rheumatologist usually lasts one to two hours. Future appointments won’t be as long, but your rheumatologist is trying to get to know you and your medical history during that first visit. They will discuss the symptoms that brought you to the office, ask about your medical history, and perform a physical exam. Sometimes, this is enough to enable the doctor to make a diagnosis. At other times, more tests, such as ultrasound scans and blood tests, may be needed.

To make this process go smoother and to help ease your fears, here are some things you can do to prepare for your first appointment with a rheumatologist.”

Read the article on preparing for your first appointment with a rheumatologist on CreakyJoints Canada.