A rheumatologist is an internal medical physician who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones. There are more than 100 types of rheumatic disease, including inflammatory and degenerative arthritis, fibromyalgia, gout, lupus, osteoporosis, and other connective tissue diseases.

Rheumatologists provide holistic, patient-centred clinical care, covering a broad spectrum of conditions ranging from diseases of the immune system and metabolic bone disorders to chronic musculoskeletal pain syndromes, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The complex interplay between genetics, environmental factors, and autoimmunity also presents ample opportunity for translational medical research. In the context of an ageing population, there is recognition of an increasing need for rheumatology specialist services. Many patients with established arthritis face social and financial difficulty due to debilitating disease, leading to decreased capacity to engage with the wider community and maintain employment. This often has a profound personal impact on the patient and their families, whānau, and/or carers, and has broad implications for society and government. Arthritis has been identified as a national health priority in Australia.

Rheumatologists have expertise in:

Diagnosis and management. Rheumatologists are highly trained in the diagnosis, investigation, and holistic management of patients, encompassing the management of pain, reduction of inflammation, and preservation of musculoskeletal function for all forms of arthritis, autoimmune connective tissue disease, spinal and soft tissue disorders, chronic musculoskeletal pain syndromes, and certain metabolic bone disorders, including osteoporosis.

Clinical skills. Rheumatologists apply clinical skills and laboratory and medical imaging modalities to assess, diagnose, and manage rheumatologic diseases.

Providing advice. Rheumatologists advise referring and primary care physicians, address disease-specific questions, and respond to requests for procedures.

Ongoing care of patients. Rheumatologists provide ongoing follow-up of patients with inflammatory diseases, providing targeted treatment, determining when to escalate therapy, and assessing treatment efficacy and safety.

Effective communication. Rheumatic diseases are frequently chronic. Due to the longitudinal nature of care, skilful communication engendering lasting rapport with patients remains an enduring, critical facet of rheumatology practice. Rheumatologists must be able to explain complex medical concepts in a clear and understandable manner and provide emotional support to patients coping with chronic diseases.

Interdisciplinary collaboration. Rheumatologists often work closely with other healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists, orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, and primary care physicians, to provide comprehensive care to patients with rheumatic conditions.

Research skills. Many rheumatologists are involved in research to advance the understanding and treatment of rheumatic diseases. Strong research skills are beneficial for conducting clinical trials, publishing scientific papers, and staying up to date with the latest developments in the field.

Last modified: Thursday, 27 November 2025, 12:21 PM