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What does a rheumatologist do?
A rheumatologist uses advanced medical knowledge to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal and autoimmune disorders. Rheumatologists assist patients by evaluating their symptoms and ordering diagnostic imaging. They might also make recommendations to improve symptoms or prevent the progression of a rheumatic disease. A rheumatologist may have the following responsibilities:
- Order diagnostic imaging to identify signs of a systemic or autoimmune disorder
- Monitor the progress of an existing rheumatic disorder
- Prescribe medications to improve symptoms or slow the progression of the disorder
- Perform a physical assessment to better understand the symptoms
- Educate the patient on the autoimmune disorder and discuss a treatment plan
Average salary
The typical salary of a rheumatologist will vary depending on geographical location, place of employment and the number of patients the rheumatologist sees weekly. Some rheumatologists work in a hospital setting, whereas others may have their own private practice. A rheumatologist with more experience is likely to have more referrals and more patients, thus earning a higher salary. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, click on the salary link.
- Common salary in the U.S.: $257,407 per year
- Some salaries range from $63,000 to $451,000 per year.
Rheumatologist requirements
Becoming a rheumatologist requires the completion of certain educational and experience requirements, which include:
Education
Rheumatologists need to undergo extensive education to gain licensure and certification. The first educational requirement is a bachelor’s degree, with pre-medicine, biology or related field. Students prepare for medical school admission by taking coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology. Because medical school is competitive, many students will also volunteer with local hospitals to gain field experience.
During undergraduate work, students must complete the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). All medical schools require MCAT scores as part of a student’s application, as it shows a candidate’s knowledge in subjects needed for medicine, like biology and chemistry.
After completing a bachelor’s degree program, an aspiring rheumatologist undergoes a medical program. They may choose between two educational routes, which include allopathic or osteopathic schools. After graduating from an allopathic school, students earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), while graduation from an osteopathic school offers a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.). Both medical schools offer similar training for rheumatologists.
In the first two years of a medical program, students can expect coursework in biochemistry, human anatomy and pathology. The next two years of the program focus on rotations, in which students study different medical specialties in teaching clinics and hospitals, including rheumatology. This gives students the ability to learn more about their medical field of interest.
Training
A rheumatologist gains most of their training during their residency. After graduating, doctors complete a residency in internal medicine, which typically lasts about three years. After completing a residency, a doctor must then complete a fellowship in rheumatology for two to three years. Fellowship training includes shadowing an experienced rheumatologist for the first year or two. In the final portion of their fellowship, they work directly with patients with minimal supervision. Rheumatologists can also undergo a specialty fellowship in which they learn how to treat specific illnesses that affect various anatomical systems.
Certifications
All doctors need to earn a license to practice medicine. Each state has a board that issues licenses, and requirements may differ. Most state boards require doctors to submit an application that includes proof of:
- Graduating from an accredited medical school
- Passing the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)
- Undergoing at least one year of post-graduation medical training
Most individuals apply for a medical license once they complete their first year of residency. Physicians must renew their licenses according to their issuing state’s medical board.
Rheumatologists can also earn board certification in rheumatology. To earn a rheumatology certification, doctors must pass an exam, and keep the credential active, they need to apply for renewal based on the board’s standards. If a rheumatologist specializes, they can earn board certifications in different areas as well. For example, a pediatric rheumatologist can also earn board certification in pediatrics.
Skills
Rheumatologists require certain hard and soft skills to succeed in their roles. A few of these skills include:
Diagnostic skills
One of the major responsibilities of a rheumatologist is to evaluate symptoms and diagnose autoimmune conditions. The ability to compile symptoms, test results and imaging to make a correct diagnosis is important to deliver the best care to patients.
Time management
Rheumatologists often have multiple patients in one day, each one with unique needs. The ability to manage each patient, including their assessment, records and scheduling, is necessary.
Communication
Rheumatologists will use strong communication skills to listen to and understand the symptoms of their patients. Written communication skills are also necessary to keep detailed records for each patient.
Research
Rheumatologists need to maintain knowledge of the research as it relates to the field of rheumatology. Keeping updated on techniques, medications and diagnostics criteria will assist a rheumatologist in helping their patients.
Rheumatologist work environment
Rheumatologists spend most of their day in an examination room, visiting with patients. The specific tasks of the day will depend on the patients they work with throughout the day. Some appointments may be follow-ups with ongoing patients, checking on symptoms and managing medications. Other appointments may include a complete assessment with new patients in an attempt to diagnose and treat symptoms. Rheumatologists also spend time in their office, preparing to meet with patients or updating patient records. A rheumatologist can expect the following work characteristics:
- Frequent communication with patients
- Frequent use of medical equipment
- Daily use of computers to update patient records
- Daily communication with other medical professionals to coordinate care
- Updated knowledge of medications and treatment procedures
How to become a rheumatologist
Becoming a rheumatologist requires the completion of certain educational requirements. You can become a rheumatologist with the following steps:
1. Complete a bachelor’s degree.
A bachelor’s degree is the first step toward becoming a rheumatologist. Choose a degree that will support your medical school application and prepare you for an education in medicine.
2. Apply for medical school.
Applying for medical school can be competitive. You need to take the MCAT, have letters of recommendation and a good GPA in your bachelor’s program. You will also want to choose an accredited medical school that will prepare you for a career as a rheumatologist.
3. Obtain a medical degree.
You can go to an allopathic or osteopathic medical school, both of which last four years. During medical school, you’ll complete coursework in a classroom or laboratory setting, the undergo rotations, where you’ll earn practical experience in a health care setting.
4. Complete a residency.
After graduating from medical school, you will need to complete a residency. Residencies usually last two to three years.
5. Obtain licensure.
In the first year of your residency, you can apply for a medical license. Make sure you meet all of the requirements issued by your state’s medical board to ensure they approve your application. You will need to renew your license based on the state board’s guidelines.
6. Complete a fellowship in rheumatology.
In this fellowship, you can expect to work closely with a rheumatologist, learning the requirements of the role. You will also work directly with patients during this time. If you want to specialize, you will need to undergo an additional fellowship.
7. Become board certified.
Following the completion of your fellowship, it can be useful to become board certified. For each board certification you want, you’ll need to pass an exam.
8. Apply for rheumatologist positions.
After completing all educational and training requirements, you can apply for rheumatologist positions. Strengthen your cover letter and resume by including the residency and fellowship experiences that most closely relate to the position.
Rheumatologist job description example
Rogers Hospital is looking to add a board-certified rheumatologist to our medical team. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years working in the medical field, with at least four years in rheumatology. Strong teamwork and communication skills are a requirement for this position as you will work closely with our immunology department. In this position, the rheumatologist will be expected to diagnose, treat and manage patients with rheumatology disorders, specifically lupus. The willingness to train and work closely with residents and interns is a requirement in this role.
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