Best Rheumatologists in Berkeley
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Rheumatology and Its Importance
Definition of rheumatology
Rheumatology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal diseases and autoimmune conditions. These disorders can affect joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissues throughout the body.
Rheumatologists commonly treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, gout, fibromyalgia, and various forms of inflammatory arthritis. Their expertise extends to managing complex autoimmune disorders that can impact multiple organ systems.
Importance of specialized care for rheumatological conditions
The complex nature of autoimmune diseases and musculoskeletal disorders necessitates specialized care. Rheumatologists possess in-depth knowledge of these intricate conditions and are equipped to provide accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans.
Many rheumatological conditions require ongoing management and careful monitoring. A rheumatologist's expertise is invaluable in adjusting treatments, managing medications, and addressing complications that may arise over time. This continuous care is essential for maintaining patients' quality of life and preventing disease progression.
What's the fastest way to connect to rheumatologists?
Our clinically-backed AI will ask you questions and provide an answer specific to your unique health situation.
List of Rheumatologists in Berkeley
AL
Dr. Anand Lal
5.0
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
UNIVERSITY OF DELHI / COLLEGE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES (Medical School, 1991)
English
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
Children's Hospital San Francisco (Internship Hospital)
University of California San Francisco (Fellowship Hospital, 1990)
Children's Hospital San Francisco (Residency Hospital, 1988)
West Virginia University (Medical School, 1985)
West Virginia University (Undergraduate School, 1981)
English
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
AD
Dr. Aileen Dillon
5.0
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF IRELAND / FACULTY OF MEDICINE (Medical School, 1976)
English
Rheumatology
JF
Dr. Jeffrey Fong
5.0
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Thomas Jefferson University (Medical School, 1980)
English
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
WF
Dr. Walford Fessel
5.0
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
MIDDLESEX UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (Medical School, 1955)
English
Rheumatology
LI
Dr. Lloyd Ito
5.0
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Male
Languages
English
University of Hawaii at Manoa (Medical School, 1988)
English
Rheumatology
AI
Dr. Arshia Islam
5.0
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
SOUTHWEST COLLEGE OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINEHEALTH SCIENCES (Medical School, 1993)
English
Rheumatology
RC
Dr. Ramani Chaganti
3.8
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Female
Languages
English
Temple University (Medical School, 1999)
English
Rheumatology
BK
Dr. Brian Kaye
3.7
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Santa Clara Vly Med/Stanford (Fellowship Hospital, 1986)
Santa Clara Valley Medical Center (Internship Hospital, 1984)
Baylor College of Medicine (Medical School, 1983)
English
Internal Medicine
Rheumatology
Winthrop - University Hospital (Fellowship Hospital)
University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences (Residency Hospital, 1997)
Mercy Hospital (Internship Hospital, 1994)
University of The Philippines College of Medicine (Medical School, 1992)
English
Arabic
Spanish
Vietnamese
Rheumatology
AL
Dr. Alan Lash
2.9
Berkeley, CA
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Baylor University (Medical School, 1979)
English
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
Choosing a Rheumatologist in Berkeley
Factors to Consider
Qualifications and Expertise
- Board certification
- Educational background
- Years of experience
Patient Satisfaction
- Star ratings and reviews
- Patient testimonials
Accessibility and Convenience
- Location within Berkeley
- Availability of appointments
- Acceptance of insurance plans
Evaluating Berkeley's Rheumatologists
Top-Rated Specialists
- Dr. Chee Chow (5.0 stars, 4 reviews)
- Dr. Mitchell Fung (5.0 stars, 3 reviews)
- Dr. Jeffrey Fong (5.0 stars, 3 reviews)
Specializations and Expertise
- Rheumatologists with additional Internal Medicine certification
- Doctors with multiple language capabilities
Making Your Decision
Scheduling Consultations
- Preparing questions for potential rheumatologists
- Evaluating communication styles and patient-doctor rapport
Reviewing Credentials
- Verifying board certifications
- Researching educational background and ongoing training
Top-Rated Rheumatologists in Berkeley
Dr. Chee Chow
Highest-rated with 5.0 stars and 4 reviews
- Education: Yale University School of Medicine
- Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
- Contact information: (510) 752-1000
Dr. Mitchell Fung
5.0-star rating with 3 reviews
- Education: George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
- Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
- Contact information: (559) 448-4747
Dr. Jeffrey Fong
5.0-star rating with 3 reviews
- Education: Thomas Jefferson University
- Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
- Contact information: Not available
Dr. Sikai Yang
5.0-star rating with 2 reviews
- Education: American Career College
- Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
- Contact information: (510) 204-8120
Dr. Nicole Griffin
5.0-star rating with 2 reviews
- Education: Creighton University
- Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
- Contact information: (925) 295-4000
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Rheumatologist in Berkeley
Preparing for Your First Appointment
Gathering Medical History and Records
- Compile a comprehensive list of past diagnoses and treatments
- Collect relevant imaging and lab results
- Prepare a family medical history focused on rheumatic conditions
Creating a Symptom Journal
- Document the frequency and severity of symptoms
- Note any triggers or patterns observed
- Record the impact of symptoms on daily activities
Questions to Ask Potential Rheumatologists
Treatment Approaches
- Inquire about their experience with your specific condition
- Ask about their approach to medication management
- Discuss alternative or complementary therapies they might recommend
Practice Logistics
- Determine their availability for appointments and emergencies
- Ask about telemedicine options, given the data shows some Berkeley rheumatologists offer this
- Inquire about the typical wait times for appointments and test results
Evaluating Patient-Doctor Rapport
Communication Style
- Assess the doctor's willingness to explain complex medical terms
- Observe how well they listen to your concerns and questions
- Consider language preferences, noting that some Berkeley rheumatologists speak multiple languages
Shared Decision-Making
- Gauge their openness to involving you in treatment decisions
- Discuss how they typically collaborate with patients on long-term management plans
- Ask about their approach to incorporating patient preferences into care strategies