Specialty - Rheumatology
Overview
Rheumatology is the specialty of medicine that includes arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Arthritis means inflammation of a joint. A joint is where two or more bones meet and move in relation to each other. They are separated by a rubbery substance called cartilage which is smooth and slippery, allowing for easy movement. Cartilage covers the end of each bone. Tendons and ligaments attach bones to muscles and other bones. Cartilage, tendons and ligaments are enclosed within a membrane around the joint which releases a fluid into the joint space to keep it well lubricated. Autoimmune disease is where an abnormality in the immune system leads to the body’s defence harming its own cells by mistake. A rheumatologist is a doctor who has specialised in this area of medicine. Your GP will refer you to see a rheumatologist
if they think you have an autoimmune disorder or if they need assistance diagnosing or treating arthritis.
Your GP will request an appointment in the outpatient clinic. Rheumatology is a regional service with all referrals being graded at Tauranga Hospital by a Rheumatology specialist before appointing to clinics at either Tauranga or Whakatane Hospital. The Department reviews the referral letters to determine who should be seen first, based on the information provided by the GP. Very urgent cases are usually seen within a couple of weeks, but other cases may have to wait a much longer period.
Routine cases are often returned to the GP.
Consultants
Dr T Sole
Referral / First Specialist Assessment
A threshold for FSA referral acceptance has been set to assist with MOH waiting
time compliance.
Contact Details
Postal: Referral Receipt Centre, BOPDHB, Private Bag 12024, Tauranga 3142
Fax: 07 578 1247
Phone: 0800 333 477