Best Rheumatologists in Chattanooga
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Rheumatology in Chattanooga
Definition and scope of rheumatology
Rheumatology is a specialized branch of medicine focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the joints, muscles, and bones.
Rheumatologists in Chattanooga treat a wide range of conditions, including arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune disorders.
Importance of finding the right rheumatologist
Selecting an experienced rheumatologist is essential for effectively managing chronic musculoskeletal and autoimmune conditions.
A skilled rheumatologist can provide personalized treatment plans, improving quality of life for patients with complex rheumatological issues.
Overview of rheumatology services in Chattanooga
Chattanooga is home to at least 14 practicing rheumatologists, offering patients a range of options for specialized care.
Major healthcare facilities in Chattanooga, such as CHI Memorial Hospital and Erlanger Baroness Hospital, provide comprehensive rheumatology services.
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List of Rheumatologists in Chattanooga
American Board of Internal Medicine
University OK Health Science Center (Residency Hospital)
Medical University of South Carolina (Fellowship Hospital, 1984)
Baptist Memorial Hospital - Memphis (Internship Hospital, 1980)
University of Tennessee College of Medicine (Medical School, 1978)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Erlanger Baroness Hospital
Rheumatology
CS
Dr. Charles Sienknecht
4.6
Chattanooga, TN
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University Toronto (Fellowship Hospital, 1975)
University Tenn Hospital (Fellowship Hospital, 1973)
Philadelphia General Hospital (Internship Hospital, 1968)
University of Tennessee College of Medicine (Medical School, 1967)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Internal Medicine
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
Vanderbilt University (Fellowship Hospital, 2014)
University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga Campus (Residency Hospital, 2009)
University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Chattanooga Campus (Internship Hospital, 2007)
University of Tennessee College of Medicine (Medical School, 2006)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
Regional Medical Center at Memphis (Residency Hospital)
Regional Medical Center at Memphis|University Tn College Med Chattanooga (Residency Hospital)
University Tn College Med Chattanooga (Residency Hospital)
University of Tennessee College of Medicine (Medical School, 1985)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Erlanger Baroness Hospital
Tennova Healthcare-Cleveland
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
University Of Tennessee Chattanooga (Erlanger Medical Center) (Residency Hospital, 2006)
Augusta University Medical College of Georgia (Fellowship Hospital, 2006)
University Of Tennessee Chattanooga (Erlanger Medical Center) (Internship Hospital, 2004)
Nova Southeastern University / College Of Allied Health (Medical School, 2003)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Erlanger Baroness Hospital
Rheumatology
Dr. Indra Shah
3.8
Chattanooga, TN
Sex
Male
Languages
English, Gujarati, Hindi
American Board of Internal Medicine
Mercy Hospital - Pittsburgh, PA (Internship Hospital)
Mercy Hospital - Pittsburgh, PA (Residency Hospital, 2001)
University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences (Medical School, 1996)
English
Gujarati
Hindi
Parkridge Medical Center
Rheumatology
Emory University School of Medicine (Medical School)
Emory University School Med/Emory University Affil Hosps (Fellowship Hospital, 2006)
Emory University Hospital (Residency Hospital, 2004)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Rheumatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
Washington Hospital Center (Fellowship Hospital, 2002)
Morristown Medical Center (Residency Hospital, 2000)
Russian St Med University (Medical School, 1989)
English
Russian
Erlanger Baroness Hospital
Rheumatology
AE
Dr. Alan Elliott
3.0
Chattanooga, TN
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine (Medical School, 2000)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Rheumatology
University Tn College Med Chattanooga (Residency Hospital, 1993)
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (Medical School, 1989)
East Tn State University (Undergraduate School, 1985)
English
CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
Hamilton Medical Center
Tennova Healthcare-Cleveland
Rheumatology
Selecting a Rheumatologist in Chattanooga
Factors to consider when choosing a rheumatologist
Qualifications and board certifications
- Review American Board of Internal Medicine certifications
- Consider additional specializations or fellowships
Experience and education
- Examine medical school and residency information
- Look for fellowship training in rheumatology
Hospital affiliations
- Check associations with reputable hospitals like CHI Memorial and Erlanger Baroness
- Consider convenience of hospital locations
Patient reviews and ratings
- Analyze star ratings and number of reviews
- Read patient feedback for insights on doctor-patient relationships
Resources for finding rheumatologists in Chattanooga
Online platforms and directories
- Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor information
- Explore other medical review websites for additional perspectives
Professional referrals
- Consult with primary care physicians for recommendations
- Seek advice from other specialists in related fields
Local health organizations
- Contact Chattanooga-area hospitals for rheumatology departments
- Reach out to local arthritis or autoimmune disease support groups
Top-Rated Rheumatologists in Chattanooga
Dr. Jessica Huffstutter
Highest Star Rating
- Perfect 5.0 star rating based on patient reviews
- Demonstrates excellent patient satisfaction
Qualifications and Certifications
- Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in both Rheumatology and Internal Medicine
Practice Information
- Affiliated with multiple hospitals including Parkridge Medical Center and CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
- Contact number: (423) 826-0800
Dr. Joseph Huffstutter
Patient Satisfaction
- High 4.8 star rating based on 11 patient reviews
- Indicates consistently positive patient experiences
Education and Experience
- Extensive medical training including fellowship at Medical University of South Carolina
- Graduated from University of Tennessee College of Medicine in 1978
Expertise and Affiliations
- Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Affiliated with CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga and Erlanger Baroness Hospital
- Contact number: (423) 847-2268
Dr. Charles Sienknecht
Patient Reviews
- Solid 4.6 star rating based on 13 patient reviews
- Suggests consistent quality of care
Professional Background
- Extensive experience with education from prestigious institutions
- Completed fellowships at University of Toronto and University of Tennessee
Practice Details
- Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Affiliated with CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
- Specializes in both Internal Medicine and Rheumatology
Dr. Natalie Braggs
Patient Feedback
- 4.2 star rating based on a significant number of reviews (57)
- Indicates consistently good patient experiences
Educational Background
- Completed fellowship at Vanderbilt University
- Graduated from University of Tennessee College of Medicine
Professional Information
- Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Affiliated with CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
- Contact number: (423) 225-5327
Dr. Melinda Garcia-Rosell
Patient Satisfaction
- 4.1 star rating based on 26 patient reviews
- Suggests consistent quality care
Qualifications
- Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Graduated from University of Tennessee College of Medicine
Practice Information
- Affiliated with CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
- Contact number: (423) 225-5327
- Specializes in Rheumatology
Additional Considerations for Choosing a Rheumatologist
Language options
Doctors offering services in multiple languages
- Dr. Indra Shah: English, Gujarati, Hindi
- Dr. Michael Brit: English, Russian
Importance of clear communication in rheumatology care
- Discuss complex medical terms
- Explain treatment plans effectively
Gender preferences
Availability of both male and female rheumatologists
- Female doctors: Dr. Jessica Huffstutter, Dr. Natalie Braggs, Dr. Melinda Garcia-Rosell, Dr. Elizabeth Turner, Dr. Elizabeth Simpson, Dr. Suzan House
- Male doctors: Dr. Joseph Huffstutter, Dr. Charles Sienknecht, Dr. Jonathan Mills, Dr. Richard Brackett, Dr. Indra Shah, Dr. Michael Brit, Dr. Alan Elliott, Dr. William Craig
Considering personal comfort in doctor-patient relationships
- Impact on open communication
- Long-term care preferences
Accessibility and location
Proximity to major hospitals in Chattanooga
- CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
- Erlanger Baroness Hospital
- Parkridge Medical Center
Ease of scheduling appointments
- Availability of contact information
- Online scheduling options