Who are we?

We are a dedicated group of highly trained, motivated and experienced doctors, nurses staff, specialist nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists working as a multidisciplinary team. As a team we constantly strive towards improving the services we provide for our patients. Where ever possible, we provide patients with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision about their own treatment. Questions are welcomed and are encouraged.

Where are we?

The Rheumatology department is currently situated in the Horton Wing in St Luke’s Hospital. The outpatient clinics, physiotherapy (including the hydrotherapy pool), occupational therapy services as well as the ward and day case unit are easily accessible for patients with impaired mobility.

What do we do?

We offer modern and timely assessment and management of patients with rheumatological disorders. We have extensive experience in the assessment and management of all rheumatological conditions, ranging from standard evidence based care to the modern “biologic” treatments for complex or severely ill patients. The term ‘biologics’ describes a diverse range of therapeutic products. These cutting edge therapies may be able to provide substantial improvements on the current treatments available, in those who have an insufficient response to traditional treatments.

What facilities do we have?

Most of our patients are assessed and managed in our outpatient clinics. For those with complex disease or who are more unwell we have a modern ward with beds in either a 6-bedded bay or one / two bedded rooms, some of which are en-suite. We have a 6 bedded day case unit where complex treatments are administered under the care of our highly trained and experienced nurses and doctors. We have a rapid access review facility allowing us to see follow up patients usually within 24-48 hours of them or their GP having made contact. We also have an excellent dedicated physiotherapy, occupational and hydrotherapy service. We offer an advice line service for patients, GP’s and carers.

What is the 'Rheumatology advice line' service for?

The telephone advice line service is for patients already under our care, their GPs or other healthcare professionals. Advice is available regarding their disease, disease flares and medication. If necessary, an appointment to see a member of the Rheumatology team can be arranged.

When ringing, please state:

1. Your full name of patient or caller
2. Your hospital number or NHS number or date of birth

The advice line is a direct line to a Specialist Nurse and is available Monday Wednesday Friday 9-11, Tuesday Thursday 1.30 -3.00.  These are standard times. There may be occasions when we have to alter these. Any changes will be on the voice mail message.. If the line is engaged please try again. There is no answer phone to leave a message.

Calls to the rheumatology advice line are not appropriate in case of

1. A medical emergency(In case of a medical emergency please contact your GP, NHS Direct or casualty)
2. Request to change your appointments (If you want to change your appointment please ring 01274 36 5397.)
3. Request for a repeat prescription (If you need a repeat prescription or more blood forms please ring 01274 36 5779)