Programs and research

Improving care

To help you get the best possible care, we offer several specialty clinics devoted to specific rheumatic conditions. We also do research aimed at improving care for everyone.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect your skin, joints and internal organs. Our Lupus Clinic brings together lupus specialists, social workers and pharmacists. They work together at your appointments to help address all your medical needs.

Lupus nephritis is a type of kidney disease caused by lupus. Through this clinic, you receive coordinated care from a rheumatologist who specializes in treating lupus and a doctor who specializes in kidney health.

At this center, we focus on preventing and treating osteoporosis. We place special emphasis on preventing fractures.

We have a specialized clinic for Sjögren’s syndrome. This is a disorder that commonly causes dry eyes and a dry mouth and can affect other parts of the body. Often the condition is associated with another autoimmune disorder such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

  • Studying the role of sex hormones in the pathogenesis of Sjogren's syndrome

  • Improving cardiovascular health for patients with rheumatic conditions

  • Addressing disparities and care gaps for patients with lupus

  • Identifying novel immune processes and redefining autoantibodies in rheumatoid arthritis

  • Studying the causes and treatment of osteoporosis/metabolic bone disease

Chuck Beschta portrait
Meet our patients
New scleroderma treatment leads to 'amazing' recovery

Chuck had a form of scleroderma so severe it became difficult for him to breathe and eat. He found relief from a stem cell transplant. The treatment has been used with blood cancers for decades. But Chuck’s transplant for scleroderma was the first outside of clinical trials in Wisconsin.

Conditions and treatments

Specialists in rheumatology

Our arthritis and immune experts at UW Health diagnose and treat autoimmune diseases and disorders of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones and joints.

Rheumatological conditions

There are more than 100 types of rheumatic disease. Among them are many different types of arthritis. We make sure you get the right diagnosis so you get the right treatment.

Some of the most common conditions we treat include:

Treatments and services

Your treatment will depend on your condition and needs. Education on treatments and handling symptoms can be vital.

We might offer tips and guidance on lifestyle and behavior changes. A good diet and getting the right type and amount of exercise can be helpful. So can getting adequate rest and sleep, quitting smoking and managing stress.

We treat many rheumatic diseases with medication. Sometimes treatment includes IV infusions, removing fluid or injecting your joints. We can work with experts from many UW Health divisions to tailor care.

Taking your rheumatology medications is important to your health. That’s why your rheumatology team includes a dedicated pharmacist — working closely with providers and nurses to create your care plan and support you every step along the way. They can help with everything from authorization to how to safely take your medicine.

Pharmacy services for rheumatology patients include:

  • Medication education: When and how often to take, side effect management, adding new medications to your current routine and if needed, first-dose device teaching.

  • Assistance with insurance: Completing start forms, obtaining prior authorizations and support through any necessary appeals

  • Navigation: Enrollment support for copay assistance and guidance through any changes to your insurance coverage.

  • Q-and-A: Talk directly to a pharmacist who works daily as part of your team of providers. You can reach your pharmacist at any time via phone or MyChart.

Specialty pharmacy

Consider adding our specialty pharmacy to your team. We’re uniquely qualified to dispense complex or cost-sensitive specialty medications. We provide specialized monitoring and EHR (electronic health records)-connected help that might not be available at local pharmacies.

Once enrolled, you can have your prescriptions shipped directly to you at no cost, including out of state for most states. Learn more

Locations

Nearby care you can count on

With clinics in Madison and the surrounding area, we’re close by and ready to help.

Meet our team

Ready to help you find relief

Our rheumatologists and advance practice providers are highly experienced. They have the knowledge and skills to help you find relief.

Our providers

Patient and support services

Helpful information and resources

These resources can help you learn more about rheumatic diseases and their treatments.