Preparing for your rheumatology appointment

Getting referred to a rheumatologist can feel like a big step. For many people, it comes after months or even years of pain, fatigue, stiffness, swelling, or uncertainty about what is happening in their body.

When you finally get an appointment, it’s common to feel relieved, nervous, or worried about making the most of the time available. Rheumatology appointments are often time-limited, so preparing beforehand can help you feel more confident. 

A rheumatologist is a specialist doctor who diagnoses and manages some forms of arthritis, autoimmune conditions, and diseases affecting the joints, muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments.

Some rheumatological conditions can also affect other parts of the body, including the eyes, skin, internal organs, and nervous system. Rheumatologists help identify the cause of symptoms, monitor inflammation, recommend treatment options, and adjust management plans over time as needed.

For many people living with inflammatory arthritis or autoimmune conditions, a rheumatologist becomes an important part of their health team. 

Usually, your GP or healthcare lead will refer you to a rheumatologist through the public health system. Specialists can also refer you to other specialists too.

Public specialist care is free, but waiting times can vary depending on where you live and how urgent your symptoms are. If you are referred through the public system, you generally can’t choose which specialist you see.

Some people choose to see a private rheumatologist instead. This may allow you to access an appointment sooner or choose a specific specialist. Private appointments can be self-funded or covered by health insurance, depending on your policy. 

If you are receiving financial support or a benefit, you may also be able to access help with some related costs such as: 

• travel expenses  
• parking  
• prescription costs

Specialist appointments often involve discussing a lot of information in a short amount of time. You will be asked about: 

• your symptoms  
• when symptoms started  
• pain, swelling, stiffness, or fatigue  
• family history  
• medications  
• how symptoms affect your everyday life  

Because of this, it can help to prepare ahead of time. Keeping notes about your symptoms, questions, medications, and concerns can make it easier to explain what has been happening and help your specialist get a clearer picture of your experience. 

It’s also important to remember that you are a key part of your health team. You know your body and your daily experience better than anyone else. Asking questions, following up on results, and speaking up about what matters to you are all important parts of managing your health. 

To support people preparing for rheumatology appointments, rheumatologist Dr Ravi Suppiah has created a free video resource for Arthritis NZ. 

In the video, Dr Suppiah shares practical tips to help you: 

• prepare for specialist appointments  
• organise your symptoms and medical information  
• communicate clearly during consultations  
• make the most of limited appointment time  

Dr Suppiah also invites you to download his free rheumatology appointment workbook, designed to help you feel more organised and confident before your next appointment. 

You can learn more and access the workbook through InflamBlueprint

If you have questions about arthritis, medications, symptoms, or support services, you can also contact the Arthritis Assist team on 0800 663 463 for information and guidance.