Smaller areas of the U.S. — cities with less than 50,000 people — are experiencing a shortage of rheumatologists, according to a study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism, the journal of the American College of Rheumatology.
The study also showed some areas with 200,000 people or more also do not have practicing rheumatologists. However, populous areas with higher median incomes tend to have a higher concentration of rheumatology practices.
Study authors recommended an increase in fellow positions in areas of the country that do not have rheumatologists. They also suggested expanding the roles of nurse practitioners and physician assistants to help care for rheumatology patients in the shortage areas.
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