For Our Patients

Patient Information

Everything you need to prepare for your visit, along with answers to the questions our patients ask most.

Your First Visit

What to expect, step by step

From referral to treatment plan, here is how care at our practice unfolds.

  1. Schedule & prepare

    Most new patients come to us by referral from their primary care or specialty provider. Once your appointment is set, a little preparation makes your first visit more productive:

    • Confirm a referral is on file, if your insurance plan requires one
    • Have recent lab work and imaging sent to our office in advance
    • Complete any forms our office sends you before your visit

  2. Arrive & check in

    Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early so check-in is unhurried. Please bring:

    • Photo ID and current insurance card(s)
    • A complete list of your medications, doses, and supplements
    • Names and contact information for your other physicians
    • Your preferred method of payment for any copay

  3. Meet your provider

    Your provider will take a comprehensive medical history, perform a thorough physical examination, and order any laboratory or imaging studies needed to understand your condition. New patient visits are intentionally longer than follow-ups. You won't be rushed, and you'll leave with a clear plan for what comes next.

  4. Begin your care plan

    Once we're confident in your diagnosis, we propose a treatment plan built around your goals, then monitor and adjust it with you until your disease is well controlled. You have access to our in-house infusion center and clinical trials when appropriate, and we keep your primary care provider informed at every stage.

Between Visits

Need something before your next appointment?

The fastest way to get what you need, whenever it comes up.

Prescription Refills

The quickest way to request a refill is through your pharmacy, which sends the request directly to our office. For questions about your medications, call us.

Scheduling Changes

If you need to reschedule, please call as early as you can. We will offer your time to another patient and find you the next available opening.

Results & Questions

Your care team reviews every lab and imaging result. Call our office whenever you'd like to discuss your results or your treatment plan.

Call (806) 701-5210

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a referral to be seen?
Some insurance plans require a referral from your primary care provider before you can see a specialist. Check with your insurer when scheduling. If you're unsure, call us and we'll help you determine what your plan requires.
What does a rheumatologist treat?
Rheumatologists specialize in diseases of the joints, muscles, bones, and immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, osteoporosis, and many other autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. If you have ongoing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, or abnormal autoimmune lab results, a rheumatologist is the right specialist to see.
How long will my first appointment take?
Plan for a longer visit than a typical follow-up. Your provider will review your history in detail, perform a thorough exam, and take the time to answer your questions fully.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Of course. Many patients find it helpful to have a family member or friend with them, especially at a first visit when a lot of information is discussed.
What happens at an infusion appointment?
Infusions take place in our in-house infusion center, so there is no need to travel to a hospital or outside facility. Our team monitors you throughout your visit, and appointment length depends on the medication. We'll tell you what to expect when your infusion is scheduled. Many patients bring a book or headphones and settle in comfortably.
Will I need regular lab work?
Many rheumatology medications require periodic lab monitoring to confirm they remain safe and effective for you. Your provider will tell you how often labs are needed, and our team will help you coordinate them around your visits.
How do I request a prescription refill?
The fastest way is to contact your pharmacy, which will send a refill request directly to our office. If you have questions about the medication itself, such as side effects, dosing, or timing, call us and we'll connect you with your care team.
What should I do if my symptoms flare before my next appointment?
Call our office. Flares are a normal part of many rheumatic diseases, and we'll help you decide whether you should be seen sooner or whether your treatment plan needs an adjustment. If you believe you're experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
Do you offer clinical research opportunities?
Yes. We conduct clinical trials in our own office, which can give eligible patients access to investigational therapies. This is often valuable when disease has not responded to standard treatment. Ask your provider whether a current study may be right for you.

Still have questions?

Our team is here to help you prepare for your visit and get the care you need.

Contact Our Office