This is an exciting time in rheumatology. Not only are we able to provide quality care for patients whose problems are very interesting and challenging and often go unaddressed, but we also have a unique opportunity to develop new insights into the basic mechanisms of disease. Furthermore, we are able to examine the effects of these problems at the population level and to find new and better ways to deliver care.

Rheumatologists at USF are not only committed to providing state-of-the-art diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation but are also dedicated to pursuing new knowledge and translating research findings into more effective diagnosis and treatment options for patients with rheumatic diseases.

As one of the largest academic rheumatology units in the state, the Divisions clinical program manages various forms of connective tissue disease including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, myositis, vasculitis and osteoporosis. This service is conducted in our clinics at USF and the James A. Haley VA Medical Center, as well as in the inpatient clinical services of Tampa General Hospital and James A. Haley VA Medical Center.

Rheumatologic services offered at USF include

• Outpatient specialty care for patients with acute and chronic rheumatic diseases
• Hospital consultations
• Diagnostic and therapeutic intra-articular and soft tissue injections and aspirations
• Bone Densitometry
• Education on rheumatologic diseases and treatments
• Clinical trials