Rheumatology

Compassionate Care for Chronic Skin, Joint & Muscle Conditions

SEARHC’s rheumatology specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of chronic dermatological, musculoskeletal and autoimmune conditions. We combine expertise with a patient-centered approach, empowering you to manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and maintain daily function. 

Rheumatology Services 

Our rheumatology team offers compassionate, expert care to help diagnose and manage chronic autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.  

Comprehensive Evaluation & Diagnosis

We perform full assessments—including medical history, physical exam, laboratory testing, and imaging—to accurately diagnose conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia and other autoimmune disorders.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s condition and needs. This may include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, corticosteroids and supportive therapies such as physical activity guidance and lifestyle education.  

In-Office Joint Injections

When appropriate, our rheumatologists offer targeted joint injections to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and improve mobility. These minimally invasive procedures are performed during clinic visits. 

Ongoing Disease Management

We provide long-term support for chronic conditions through routine monitoring, medication adjustments and preventive care aimed at minimizing flare-ups and maintaining function.

Conditions We Help Treat

  • Alopecia areata: Damaged hair follicles resulting in bald patches on the scalp or areas of the body where hair growth is more prominent. 
  • Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Ongoing pain not due to acute injury, often managed collaboratively amongst specialties and your care team. 
  • Fibromyalgia & Centralized Pain Syndromes: Chronic widespread pain and fatigue managed through multidisciplinary care. 
  • Gout: Crystal-related joint inflammation causing rapidly increasing pain, commonly affecting the big toe. 
  • Inflammatory Myopathies & Connective Tissue Disorders: Includes conditions like polymyositis and vasculitis that cause swelling, pain and limited flexibility/movement. 
  • Lichen Sclerosus: An autoimmune disease that causes skin thickening and discoloration in the genital areas. 
  • Lupus & Other Autoimmune Diseases: Lifelong systemic conditions that affect multiple body systems and require coordinated, expert treatment. 
  • Osteoarthritis: Age- or wear-related joint pain causing stiffness and reduced range of motion. 
  • Psoriasis: A rash characterized by dry, scaly areas on the skin. 
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: A joint condition linked to psoriasis, involving inflammation and stiffness. 
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune-driven joint inflammation leading to swelling, pain and potential joint damage. 
  • Systemic sclerosis: Condition that can cause skin thickening on fingers and toes, abnormalities of small blood vessels or organ function. 
  • Vitiligo: A skin condition in which areas of the skin progressively become lighter than the rest of the body. 

Why Choose SEARHC Rheumatology

  • In-Person & Telehealth Visits: Our providers and teams coordinate with patients to provide the best access to treatment depending on the location of your community. SEARHC’s care team works with providers and patients to determine appropriate appointment settings, whether in-person or virtual. 
  • Ongoing Access & Support: Regular follow-up ensures symptoms are monitored and treatments adjusted. 
  • Coordinated Care: Collaborating closely with primary care, dermatology, physical therapy, imaging specialists and others for comprehensive treatment. 

Locations & Telehealth

  • In-person consultations in Sitka (Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center) and Juneau (Ethel Lund Medical Center and SEARHC Specialty Clinic (opening Fall 2025)).  
  • Telehealth appointments are available consortium-wide through the MySEARHC portal, ensuring you’re cared for regardless of where you live. Providers and care teams work with patients and determine their needs to find the best treatment options and locations.  

Next Steps: Scheduling Rheumatology Care 

To get started: 

  • Ask your Primary Care Provider (PCP) for a referral. 
  •  Or contact SEARHC Specialty Care by calling 907.966.8504. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yes. A referral from your PCP is required for scheduling. Check with your insurance plan for specific requirements.

You’ll meet with your rheumatologist via video through the MySEARHC portal—no travel required. Lab tests or imaging may be scheduled locally.

Absolutely. We welcome transfers for ongoing management of arthritis, autoimmune conditions, or chronic joint pain.

Yes. We perform safe, in-office joint injections to reduce inflammation and pain. This is often combined with physical therapy and medication.

Service Locations

Locations by Community