SERVICES
Services at Rheumatology Associates include in-office laboratory and x-ray, musculoskeletal ultrasound, bone densitometry and on-site infusion center. The physicians in the practice are on the medical staffs of the Maine Medical Center and Mercy Hospital in Portland. The members of the practice constitute the Rheumatology division of the Maine Medical Center and are actively involved in the medical center's graduate medical education program.
X-ray
A state-of-the-art digital x-ray unit staffed by certified technicians is available for patients of Rheumatology Associates. X-rays of bones, joints and the spine are interpreted by our physicians with support as needed provided by Spectrum radiologists.
Clinical Trials Program
Rheumatology Associates has an active clinical drug trial program that enrolls appropriate patients in trials of new medications still under investigation. This program offers patients the opportunity to participate in an experimental trial and the opportunity to receive a new medication that may benefit them even before it is commercially available. Your physician and our nurse clinical trial coordinator will carefully discuss the details of any study with you.
Bone Densitometry
Bone density measurements by DEXA scanning is available on-site for patients of Rheumatology Associates or by referral from outside providers. The scans are interpreted by our physicians and a formal report will be sent to the referring provider. Our physicians also provide osteoporosis evaluation and management.
On-site Infusion Center
We have a 6-chair infusion center located on the second floor of our office. The unit is staffed by trained registered nurses experienced with IV access and medication administration. The infusion center is available only to patients established with Rheumatology Associates. Infused medications include the various biologic agents approved for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, vasculitis, lupus and myositis.
Laboratory
Our in-office laboratory provides a convenient service for Rheumatology Associate patients assisting with diagnosis and monitoring of medication treatment. Our lab is staffed by certified lab technicians and an experienced phlebotomist. On-site we perform complete blood counts, basic chemistries and joint fluid analyses. Blood specimens are also obtained and processed for sending out to reference labs as needed. The office policy is to contact patients only if a laboratory test influences or changes the treatment plan.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
A state-of-the-art musculoskeletal ultrasound is available for our patients and provides an invaluable adjunct to the clinical assessment of patients. Ultrasound can assist with diagnosis, disease activity assessment and joint injections.