Best Rheumatologists in Tacoma

Introduction to Rheumatology in Tacoma

Definition and scope of rheumatology

Rheumatology is a medical specialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases affecting the joints, muscles, and bones. These conditions, known as rheumatic diseases, can cause pain, inflammation, and limited mobility.

Rheumatologists are experts in managing complex autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, providing patients with specialized care that can significantly improve their quality of life.

Rheumatology landscape in Tacoma

Based on the provided data, Tacoma has at least 20 rheumatology specialists, offering patients a range of options for care.

Several healthcare institutions in Tacoma provide rheumatology services, including MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital, St. Joseph Medical Center, and MultiCare Allenmore Hospital. These facilities offer patients access to experienced rheumatologists and comprehensive care for rheumatic conditions.

Choosing a Rheumatologist in Tacoma

Factors to consider when selecting a rheumatologist

Board certification and qualifications

• Review American Board of Internal Medicine certifications
• Consider additional specializations like Family Medicine or Internal Medicine

Experience and education

• Examine educational background, including medical schools and fellowships
• Note years of practice and any specialized training

Hospital affiliations

• Consider doctors affiliated with reputable hospitals like MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital
• Look for multiple hospital affiliations for comprehensive care options

Patient reviews and ratings

• Analyze star ratings and number of reviews
• Pay attention to consistently high-rated doctors like Dr. Ofelya Gevorgyan and Dr. Brian Stout

Language capabilities

• Consider multilingual doctors for diverse patient needs
• Note doctors fluent in languages like Russian and Armenian

Resources for finding rheumatologists

Online directories and review platforms

• Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Compare information across multiple platforms for a well-rounded view

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Consult with your primary care doctor for personalized recommendations
• Discuss your specific rheumatological needs for targeted referrals

Local medical associations

• Contact Washington State Medical Association for rheumatologist listings
• Inquire about any local rheumatology societies or groups in Tacoma

Top-Rated Rheumatologists in Tacoma

Dr. Ofelya Gevorgyan

Qualifications and Experience

• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Fellowship at Rush Medical College
• Residency at Presence Saint Joseph Hospital
• Medical degree from Yerevan State Medical University, Armenia

Practice Information

• Affiliated with MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital
• Specializes in Rheumatology and Family Medicine
• Fluent in English, Armenian, and Russian

Patient Feedback

• Perfect 5.0-star rating
• 6 patient reviews

Dr. Patricia Papadopoulos

Qualifications and Experience

• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Fellowship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center
• Residency at Madigan Army Medical Center
• Medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine

Practice Information

• Affiliated with MultiCare Covington Medical Center, MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital, and Saint Michael Medical Center
• Specializes in Rheumatology

Patient Feedback

• 4.7-star rating
• 13 patient reviews

Dr. Norman Simon

Qualifications and Experience

• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences (1987)

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Swedish First Hill Campus in Seattle
• Specializes in Rheumatology
• Contact number: (314) 925-4770

Patient Feedback

• 4.6-star rating
• 17 patient reviews

Additional Considerations for Rheumatology Care in Tacoma

Multilingual Services

Doctors who speak languages other than English

• Dr. Ofelya Gevorgyan: English, Armenian, Russian
• Dr. Natalya Markoff: English, Russian
• Dr. Dina Titova: English, Russian

Importance of clear communication in rheumatology care

• Discuss complex medical conditions
• Explain treatment plans effectively
• Address patient concerns and questions

Subspecialties within rheumatology

Doctors with additional specializations

• Dr. Ofelya Gevorgyan: Family Medicine
• Dr. Brian Stout: Internal Medicine
• Dr. Syed Islam: Internal Medicine
• Dr. Charles Paxson: Internal Medicine
• Dr. Daniel Ene-Stroescu: Internal Medicine

Benefits of choosing a doctor with relevant subspecialties

• Comprehensive approach to treatment
• Better understanding of comorbidities
• Potential for more integrated care

Accessibility and location

Hospital and clinic locations in Tacoma

• MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital
• St. Joseph Medical Center
• MultiCare Allenmore Hospital

Importance of choosing a conveniently located doctor

• Easier to attend regular appointments
• Reduces travel time and stress
• Facilitates better adherence to treatment plans