Best Rheumatologists in Tampa
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Rheumatology in Tampa
Overview of Rheumatology as a Medical Specialty
Rheumatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases, which affect the joints, muscles, and bones.
Rheumatologists treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, and gout.
Importance of Rheumatology in Tampa's Healthcare Landscape
Tampa's diverse population and growing senior demographic contribute to a significant need for rheumatology services.
Florida's warm and humid climate can affect certain rheumatic conditions, making specialized care particularly important in this region.
Choosing a Rheumatologist in Tampa
When selecting a rheumatologist, consider factors such as board certifications, patient reviews, and hospital affiliations.
Tampa offers a range of experienced rheumatologists, with many affiliated with prominent hospitals like Tampa General Hospital and St. Joseph's Hospital.
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 Tampa
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine (Medical School)
English
Oviedo Medical Center
AdventHealth Orlando
Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine (Residency Hospital)
University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine (Internship Hospital)
University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine (Medical School, 2003)
English
St. Joseph's Hospital
AdventHealth Wesley Chapel
Tampa General Hospital
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
Mayo Clinic (Internship Hospital, 1979)
Emory Affil Hosps (Residency Hospital, 1979)
Mayo Clinic Rochester (Fellowship Hospital, 1979)
Mayo Clinic-Rochester (Fellowship Hospital, 1979)
Emory University School of Medicine (Medical School, 1976)
Emory University (Undergraduate School, 1973)
English
St. Joseph's Hospital
South Florida Baptist Hospital
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
Penn Hospital (Fellowship Hospital, 1974)
University at Buffalo - State University of New York|University At Buffalo State University Of New York (Internship Hospital, 1971)
Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine (Medical School, 1970)
English
Spanish
St. Joseph's Hospital
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
Medical University of South Carolina (Fellowship Hospital, 1984)
University Ky Medical Center (Internship Hospital, 1982)
University of North Carolina School of Medicine (Medical School, 1981)
English
St. Joseph's Hospital
South Florida Baptist Hospital
Internal Medicine
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
University South Fla Affil Hosps (Fellowship Hospital, 1986)
University South Fla Affil Hosps (Residency Hospital, 1983)
University South Fla Affil Hosps (Internship Hospital, 1981)
English
St. Joseph's Hospital
AdventHealth Wesley Chapel
Androscoggin Valley Hospital
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
Universtiy of South Florida (Fellowship Hospital)
Orlando Regional Medical Center (Residency Hospital, 2010)
English
Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center
Orlando Health South Lake Hospital
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
Dr. Nicole Melendez
N/A
Tampa, FL
Sex
Female
Languages
English
Dr. Nicole Melendez is a rheumatologist based in Tampa, FL. She completed her residency at the University of Missouri, Columbia, her medical education at St. Matthew's University School of Medicine, and a fellowship at Louisiana State University, New Orleans. Dr. Melendez is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She is affiliated with BayCare Medical Group and accepts insurance from Aetna, Cigna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Dr. Melendez primarily communicates in English and her star rating is not available.
BayCare Medical Group
American Board of Internal Medicine
Rheumatology (Internal Medicine)
University of Missouri, Columbia (Residency)
Medical School - St. Matthew's University School of Medicine (Belize), Doctor of Medicine
Louisiana State University, New Orleans (Fellowship)
English
Cigna
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
4612 N Habana Ave, 1st Fl Tampa, FL
Rheumatologist
Choosing a Rheumatologist in Tampa
Understanding Rheumatology
Definition and scope of rheumatology
- Explanation of rheumatological conditions
- Importance of specialized care for autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders
Role of a rheumatologist in patient care
- Diagnosis and treatment of complex rheumatic diseases
- Collaboration with other healthcare providers
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Rheumatologist
Qualifications and Credentials
- Board certification in Rheumatology
- Educational background and ongoing training
Experience and Expertise
- Years of practice in rheumatology
- Specialization in specific rheumatic conditions
Patient Reviews and Ratings
- Importance of patient feedback
- How to interpret star ratings and reviews
Hospital Affiliations
- Significance of hospital associations
- Access to advanced medical facilities
Language and Communication
- Availability of multilingual services
- Importance of clear doctor-patient communication
Navigating the Healthcare System in Tampa
Insurance and Network Considerations
- Checking insurance coverage and in-network providers
- Understanding out-of-pocket costs
Accessibility and Location
- Proximity to patient's residence or workplace
- Availability of telemedicine options
Top-Rated Rheumatologists in Tampa
Dr. Rita Raturi
Qualifications and Ratings
- 5.0-star rating with 4 reviews
- Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine
Education and Affiliations
- Educated at University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine
- Affiliated with multiple hospitals including AdventHealth Orlando and Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center
Contact Information
- Phone: (407) 859-4540
- Languages: English
Dr. Anastasiya Bagrova
Qualifications and Ratings
- 5.0-star rating with 3 reviews
- Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine
Affiliations
- Affiliated with Tampa General Hospital
Contact Information
- Phone: (727) 461-8970
- Languages: English
Dr. Ernesto Rodriguez
Qualifications and Ratings
- 4.2-star rating with 22 reviews
- Specializes in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology
Education and Affiliations
- Educated at Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine
- Affiliated with multiple hospitals including AdventHealth Zephyrhills and St. Joseph's Hospital
Contact Information
- Phone: (813) 782-1234
- Languages: English
Dr. Natalie Faith
Qualifications and Ratings
- 4.2-star rating with 24 reviews
- Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Rheumatology
Education and Affiliations
- Educated at University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine
- Affiliated with multiple hospitals including St. Joseph's Hospital and Tampa General Hospital
Contact Information
- Phone: (813) 782-1234
- Languages: English
Dr. William Shim
Qualifications and Ratings
- 4.2-star rating with 35 reviews
- Specializes in Rheumatology
Education
- Educated at American University of The Caribbean School of Medicine
Contact Information
- Phone: (813) 694-7598
- Languages: English, Korean
Choosing a Rheumatologist in Tampa
Understanding Rheumatology
Definition and scope of rheumatology
- Explanation of rheumatological conditions
- Importance of specialized care for joint and autoimmune disorders
Role of rheumatologists in patient care
- Diagnosis and treatment of complex conditions
- Long-term management of chronic diseases
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Rheumatologist
Qualifications and Credentials
- Board certifications (e.g., American Board of Internal Medicine)
- Educational background and specialized training
Experience and Expertise
- Years of practice in rheumatology
- Specific areas of focus within the field
Patient Satisfaction and Reviews
- Star ratings and number of reviews
- Testimonials and patient feedback
Hospital Affiliations
- Connections with reputable medical facilities in Tampa
- Access to advanced treatment options
Language and Communication
- Availability of multilingual physicians
- Importance of clear doctor-patient communication
Overview of Tampa's Rheumatology Landscape
Prevalence of rheumatological conditions in the area
- Common disorders treated by Tampa rheumatologists
- Growing demand for specialized care
Access to rheumatology services in Tampa
- Distribution of rheumatologists across the city
- Wait times and availability of appointments