Best Rheumatologists in Tempe

Introduction to Rheumatology in Tempe

Definition and Scope of Rheumatology

Rheumatology is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases, which affect the joints, muscles, and bones. These conditions can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, significantly impacting a person's quality of life. Common rheumatic diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, and gout.

Specialized care in rheumatology is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management of these complex conditions. Rheumatologists are trained to identify the subtle differences between various rheumatic diseases and to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs.

The Rheumatology Landscape in Tempe

Tempe, Arizona, offers several options for rheumatology care. Based on the provided data, we can see that there are at least three rheumatologists practicing in the area: Dr. Maria Nasta, Dr. Carolyn Pace, and Dr. Denise Beighe. Each of these specialists brings unique qualifications and experiences to their practice.

Selecting the right rheumatologist is a significant decision that can greatly influence your health outcomes. Factors such as the doctor's experience, patient ratings, and additional specialties should be considered when making your choice. For instance, Dr. Maria Nasta also specializes in Family Medicine, which may be beneficial for patients seeking a more holistic approach to their care.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Tempe

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rheumatologist

Credentials and Experience

• Review educational background
• Check board certifications
• Consider years of practice

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Analyze star ratings
• Consider the number of reviews
• Look for patterns in patient feedback

Hospital Affiliations

• Identify associated medical centers
• Consider proximity and reputation of affiliated hospitals

Language Proficiency

• Check languages spoken by the doctor
• Consider importance of communication in treatment

Understanding the Provided Doctor Information

Interpreting Star Ratings and Review Counts

• Explain the significance of star ratings
• Discuss the importance of review quantity
• Compare ratings across different doctors

Evaluating Professional Qualifications

• Highlight the importance of board certifications
• Discuss relevance of educational background
• Explain the value of fellowships and specialized training

Top-Ranked Rheumatologists in Tempe

Dr. Maria Nasta

Overview

• Nurse Practitioner specializing in Rheumatology
• Additional expertise in Family Medicine

Ratings and Reviews

• Perfect 5.0 star rating
• Based on 2 patient reviews

Practice Information

• Gender: Female
• Languages: English

Dr. Carolyn Pace

Qualifications

• Specializes in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine
• Extensive educational background including fellowship at Hahnemann University

Patient Feedback

• 3.4 star rating based on 53 reviews
• Substantial patient feedback provides a comprehensive view of her practice

Additional Information

• Hospital affiliations with Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and Chandler Regional Medical Center
• Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish
• Contact: (480) 456-6561

Dr. Denise Beighe

Professional Background

• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine
• Medical degree from Temple University (1990)

Practice Details

• Gender: Female
• Languages: English
• Contact: (480) 965-3349

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Rheumatologist

Online Platforms and Directories

Healthgrades and similar websites

• Detailed information on Healthgrades
• Other reputable medical review websites

Local medical associations

• Arizona Rheumatology Association
• Maricopa County Medical Society

Consultation and Second Opinions

Importance of initial consultations

• Preparing questions for your first visit
• Evaluating doctor-patient communication

When and how to seek second opinions

• Circumstances that warrant a second opinion
• Process of obtaining referrals in Tempe