Rheumatology Telemedicine Services at UPMC

UPMC offers a few ways to receive rheumatology care via telemedicine to people in the Pittsburgh area and throughout western and central Pa.

Our doctors diagnose rheumatic diseases early, manage chronic conditions, and provide follow-up care.

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

We offer two key methods of telemedicine care based on your unique needs. What happens during the visit depends on which type you choose.

Both use secure connections to protect your privacy.

Telemedicine Center Visit

We have telehealth centers at the following locations:

• Northwest Pa. and Western New York – in Seneca, Pa.
• North Central Pa. – in Coudersport, Pa.
• West Central Pa. – in Altoona, Everett, and Somerset, Pa.

All have a full administrative staff, registered nurses (RNs), and exam rooms with audio-visual equipment.

What to expect:

• Please bring the following items with you to your appointment:
• Referral from your primary care physician (if not previously provided).
• Completed personal information forms.
• Pertinent scan results, study reports, and/or copies of your medical records.
• Current list of all medications.
• Please arrive 25 minutes prior to your appointment to allow time for registration and check-in.
• Provide the registration staff with your name and inform them that you have a telemedicine appointment scheduled. They will guide you to the telehealth center.
• A rheumatologist will interact with you in real-time using the latest telehealth technology.
• An RN will do an in-person exam under the doctor's direction.

MyUPMC Video Visits

You can receive virtual care from your rheumatologist from the comfort of home. All you need is a tablet or smartphone and a reliable Wi-Fi connection.

With video visits, your doctor can see your range of motion.

Remote Joint Exam for Arthritis

Some conditions, such as arthritis, require a physical exam for proper care.

UPMC doctors offer remote joint exams at telehealth centers for people with joint pain, swelling, or stiffness from arthritis.

Many people come to our centers for arthritis care closer to home. Telehealth centers are convenient for those in rural areas who can't travel far for care.

During your visit, a rheumatologist will:

• Appear on a large video screen in the exam room.
• Take your medical history.
• Ask about your arthritis symptoms.

Next, an RN will do an in-person joint exam while the doctor stays on the screen.

During the exam, the RN will:

• Inspect the joint.
• Look for any swelling.
• Touch and examine areas of tenderness.
• Assess your range of motion and stability.

The RN will use telehealth devices and cameras to show the on-screen rheumatologist any areas of concern that require a closer look.

The doctor will give you a diagnosis and discuss next steps for management and treatment.

Benefits of Rheumatology Telemedicine Services

Telemedicine allows people who live far from Pittsburgh to get expert rheumatology care.

Doctors can remotely:

• Order tests.
• Write prescriptions.
• Refer you for in-person/specialty care.

Telemedicine also helps you:

• Access UPMC's world-class care, especially if you live in a more remote area or can't travel.
• Limit the number of trips to Pittsburgh.
• Save time and money.
• Avoid in-person care if you have concerns about contagious viruses or diseases.

Who Can Use Rheumatology Telemedicine Services?

New and current adult patients can use telehealth services.

Rheumatic conditions we treat include:

• Lupus
• Myositis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Scleroderma
• Sjögren's syndrome
• Vasculitis

Health Insurance Plans We Accept

UPMC accepts most insurances, and many cover telemedicine visits.

Contact your provider or your health plan if you have questions about insurance coverage.

Learn More

• Learn more about rheumatology care at UPMC.