Which Doc To Dial

When You Have A Lot Of Health Care Providers, It’s Hard To Know Who To Call For What.

- Mary Anne Dunkin

If you have an inflammatory form of arthritis – like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis – arthritis may be your main concern. But it is likely not your only one, nor is your rheumatologist your only doctor.

Your disease, and sometimes your medications, affect different organ and body systems, so multiple providers are often necessary to get the best care. But when you need medical attention, do you know who you should call for what problem?

All of your doctors should know about all of your conditions, treatments and medications, and your rheumatologist should always be involved in your care, says rheumatologist Paula Marchetta, MD, clinical professor with NYU Langone Health in New York City. For particular health concerns, though, she offers this advice on which doctor to see.

Cardiovascular disease.