Good
doctor-patient communication can lead to better management of
rheumatoid arthritis
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[October 01, 2011]
(ARA) - For patients suffering
from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), pain is a part of life. Nearly 70
percent of people being treated for RA, experience pain, stiffness
or fatigue on a daily basis. However, many patients don't realize
that better communication with their rheumatologist could lead to
improved care.
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Studies have shown that earlier treatment of RA can limit joint
damage, which can limit loss of movement.
"Talking to your doctor and effectively communicating how RA affects
your life are keys to improving the management of your disease,"
says Dr. John H. Klippel, CEO of the Arthritis Foundation. "Patients
need to recognize that the rheumatologist has the very same goal as
they do - to understand how RA affects their life and to develop a
plan to manage their disease."
RA is a serious form of arthritis that impacts more than 1.3 million
people in the United States alone. The chronic inflammation in the
lining of joints that defines RA can lead to decreased range of
motion and permanent joint damage.
The Arthritis Foundation suggests RA patients do some homework
before visiting their doctor by "Taking P.A.R.T.":
* Prepare: You should keep a journal of symptoms and compile a list
of questions for your doctor. List all of your medications,
including prescriptions, over-the-counter remedies, and even herbal
supplements.
* Ask questions: You should ask questions whenever something doesn't
seem clear. This will help to ensure you understand what's going on
and how to best manage your condition. Keep it simple, specific and
direct.
* Repeat: Take notes and repeat the instructions and information you
receive from your doctor to make sure you heard and understand it.
Ask for written handouts and instructions.
* Take action: Be part of the solution. Let your doctor know about
your lifestyle, concerns, and preferences so a treatment plan can be
customized to your specific needs.
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The Arthritis Foundation has launched a national campaign called
"Let's Talk RA" to educate RA patients on how to better communicate
with their rheumatologists and to highlight how important a
doctor-patient relationship is to improving patient care.
Bristol-Myers Squibb sponsors the "Let's Talk RA" campaign.
A free "Let's Talk RA" communication kit that can help patients take
a more active role in their care is available from the Arthritis
Foundation at www.letstalkra.org, or by calling (800) 568-4045.
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