Best Rheumatologists in Fort Wayne
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Rheumatology in Fort Wayne
Definition of Rheumatology
Rheumatology is a specialized branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases. These conditions affect the joints, muscles, bones, and sometimes internal organs.
Rheumatologists in Fort Wayne commonly treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, gout, and various forms of inflammatory disorders.
Importance of Choosing the Right Rheumatologist
Selecting an appropriate rheumatologist can significantly influence the quality of care received and the overall management of rheumatic conditions. The right specialist can provide tailored treatment plans and ongoing support for chronic conditions.
Given the often long-term nature of rheumatic diseases, establishing a strong doctor-patient relationship is essential. This partnership facilitates better communication, treatment adherence, and overall health outcomes.
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List of Rheumatologists in Fort Wayne
American Board of Internal Medicine
Riverside Methodist Hospital (Residency Hospital, 2002)
Indiana University (Fellowship Hospital, 2002)
University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences (Medical School, 1999)
English
Community Memorial Hospital
Parkview Lagrange Hospital
Cameron Memorial Community Hospital
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
DR M.G.R. MEDICAL UNIVERSITY / SRI RAMACHANDRA MEDICAL COLLEGE (Medical School, 1994)
English
Parkview Lagrange Hospital
Cameron Memorial Community Hospital
Parkview Wabash Hospital
Rheumatology
Overview of Rheumatologist Selection in Fort Wayne
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rheumatologist
Credentials and Board Certifications
- Importance of American Board of Internal Medicine certification
- Relevance of educational background and fellowships
Patient Ratings and Reviews
- Analysis of star ratings from healthgrades.com
- Consideration of review count for more reliable assessments
Hospital Affiliations
- Local hospitals affiliated with top rheumatologists
- Importance of choosing a doctor with convenient hospital access
Gender Preferences and Language Skills
- Options for both male and female rheumatologists in Fort Wayne
- Consideration of language proficiency (e.g., English)
Tools and Resources for Rheumatologist Search
Online Platforms
- Utilization of healthgrades.com for comprehensive doctor profiles
- Other reputable medical review websites and directories
Local Medical Community
- Seeking referrals from primary care physicians
- Consulting with local medical associations for recommendations
Top-Ranked Rheumatologists in Fort Wayne
Dr. Karen Ringwald
Overview
- Highest star rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 29 reviews
- Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Rheumatology
Education and Training
- Residency at Riverside Methodist Hospital (2002)
- Fellowship at Indiana University (2002)
- Medical degree from University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences (1999)
Practice Information
- Hospital affiliations include Community Memorial Hospital, Parkview Lagrange Hospital, and Cameron Memorial Community Hospital
- Contact number: (260) 432-2297
- Languages: English
Dr. Steven Ko
Overview
- Strong star rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 25 reviews
- Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Rheumatology
Education and Training
- Medical degree from Loma Linda University (1990)
Practice Information
- Hospital affiliations include Cameron Memorial Community Hospital, Parkview Wabash Hospital, and Dupont Hospital
- Contact number: (260) 432-2297
- Languages: English
Dr. Monica Reddy
Overview
- Star rating of 3.3 out of 5 based on 33 reviews
- Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Rheumatology
Education and Training
- Medical degree from DR M.G.R. MEDICAL UNIVERSITY / SRI RAMACHANDRA MEDICAL COLLEGE (1994)
Practice Information
- Hospital affiliations include Parkview Lagrange Hospital, Cameron Memorial Community Hospital, and Parkview Wabash Hospital
- Contact number: (260) 432-2297
- Languages: English
Dr. Marc Wooten
Overview
- Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Rheumatology
- Note: No patient ratings available
Education and Training
- Medical degree from University of Texas at Dallas (1988)
Practice Information
- Contact number: (260) 426-5431
- Languages: English
- No hospital affiliations listed
Additional Resources for Finding the Right Rheumatologist
Local Medical Associations and Societies
Indiana State Medical Association
- Overview of the association's role in healthcare
- How to use their resources for finding rheumatologists
Fort Wayne Medical Society
- Local medical community information
- Potential events or resources for patient education
Insurance Considerations
In-network providers
- Importance of checking insurance coverage
- How to find in-network rheumatologists in Fort Wayne
Coverage for rheumatology services
- Understanding what services are typically covered
- How to inquire about specific treatments or procedures
Preparing for Your First Appointment
Questions to ask your potential rheumatologist
- Treatment approaches and philosophies
- Experience with specific rheumatic conditions
- Availability and communication preferences
Medical history and records to bring
- List of current medications and allergies
- Previous test results and imaging studies
- Family history of rheumatic diseases