This leaflet answers common questions about how we monitor your rheumatology condition and who to contact if you need support, require information, or have any queries.

In all cases, a doctor will explain your condition to you and answer any questions you may have.

Why do I need to be monitored for my condition?

After you have been seen by a rheumatology specialist doctor you may have to start new medicines for your condition. Like any other medicines, the ones used to treat your rheumatology condition can cause side effects and therefore you will need to be monitored. Your doctor will tell you how often you will need to be monitored.

At your clinic appointments, we monitor the progress of your condition using specific disease activity scores. This helps us ensure you are getting the best care possible and enables us to give you advice on how to manage your condition. We can also adjust your medications as required.

Clinic appointments can be in person, over the phone or via an online video service.

Who should I contact for advice between clinic appointments?

Sometimes you may require clinical advice between your clinic appointments if you are experiencing flare ups, in pain or having side effects from your medication. During these times you should contact:

General rheumatology

Tel: 020 3758 204, options six, then one.

Scleroderma and connective tissue

Tel: 020 3758 204, option five.

When you leave a message on the advice line, please let us know:

  • Your name
  • Hospital number or MRN or NHS number
  • Your contact numbers

Please allow 24-48 hours for us to reply to your message. The specialist nurse will contact you in working hours from Monday to Friday between 9am-5pm. Please note this is not an emergency service. If you are feeling unwell and you need to be seen urgently, please telephone 111 or visit your nearest emergency department.

Blood tests and/or prescriptions

When you start a new medicine, you are likely to need regular blood tests and prescriptions. Not all GP practices are able to monitor bloods and prescribe rheumatic drugs. If you require a blood test or prescription, telephone our patient navigator Marcia Seaton on 020 3758 2042, options two and six.

Any prescriptions should be requested two weeks in advance to allow the medical team to review your case and ensure the prescription is correct. Prescriptions will not be issued if you do not have updated blood results.

Biologic medication queries

If you have any concerns regarding your biologic medication delivery or approval for funding, please leave a message on 020 3758 2042, options six, then three.

If you are experiencing adverse side effects of biologics, please telephone the advice line above.