If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you know that flare-ups can be tough. But a new study suggests that the way you get care during those flares might matter more than you think.
Researchers tested a team-based approach where patients saw a rheumatological specialist assistant (RFA) for three visits instead of the usual rheumatologist. The study involved 224 people with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis during flares, across multiple centers.
After 12 months, patients in the team-based group reported significantly higher satisfaction with how they interacted with their provider, the information they received, cooperation, quality of care, and trust. However, there was no difference in overall satisfaction or how the practice was organized.
This is a randomized trial, which is a strong type of study. But it's important to note that the results are about satisfaction, not disease outcomes. Also, the study didn't report on side effects or other safety measures. So while team-based care looks promising for improving the patient experience, more research is needed to see if it affects the disease itself.