"Patients talk to patients. Rheumatologist professionals talk to other professionals. But to improve communication and to solve issues that matter most to patients, we need both stakeholders 'at the table' as equal parties in the conversation."

The establishment of Rheumy Rounds is based on patient-reported needs to enhance communication and relationship management with their rheumatologists, so issues they deem important could be addressed in a manner that would lead to improved outcomes. The word "Rheumy" is used because this is what patients call their rheumatologists (slang). 

Ideally, each initial episode will enlist a minimum of two patients and two rheumatology professionals to participate in roundtable discussions that address topics* suggested by one (or both) stakeholder groups.

Thank you to Dr. Alfred Kim "Al", rheumatologist and Assistant Professor of Medicine and of Pathology & Immunology at Washington University School of Medicine, founder and director of the Washington University Lupus Clinic,  and Tiffany's rheumy (our CEO and primary Talk Show Co-Host), for helping us spearhead this project. 

In addition to Dr. Kim ("Al"), we have other recurring "rheumys" - Dr. Vibeke Strand, Dr. Jeff Sparks, and Dr. Lisa Zickhur - but all health professionals are welcome (even if you aren't a 'rheumy'). Are YOU a rheumatology professional and interested in participating?  Whether you would like to be on an episode, or simply advise from behind the scenes, we have a seat for you at our table.  Please email tiffany@aiarthritis.org for more information. 

October 31st, 2021 - Episode 67

Making Informed Decisions in Unprecedented Times

Deb, Tiffany and Katie discuss making informed decisions in the age of COVID-19, and the impact of those choices. They hope to stop misinformation and provide tools and resources for their listeners.

July 4th, 2021 - Episode #63

COVID-19, Vaccinations, Shared-Decision Making, & Rheumy Communications

This week join your patient co-hosts Tiffany and Deb, as they welcome Al and Jeff (Dr. Al Kim and Dr. Jeff Sparks) to talk about the latest in COVID-19 research and vaccinations, including variants, antibodies, and the importance of communicating with your doctor about boosters and the evolving landscape (shared-decision making).

April 4th, 2021 - Episode #60

COVID Blues: It's ok to ask for help

This week join your patient co-hosts Kelly Conway and Rick Phillips as they are joined by Heather Kenjorski to discuss mental health AiArthritis patients, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Special Air Date and Time!  February 24th, 2021 - Episode #57

COVID-19 & Vaccinations Communication, Education, & Shared-Decision Making

Who's at the table? Patient Co-Hosts Tiffany Westrich-Robertson & Kelly Conway are joined by Dr's Al Kim, Vibeke Strand, and Jeff Sparks as they discuss patient and rheumatologist vaccination hesitation and key education points, while providing insights to assess benefits and risks and promote shared-decision making strategies.

February 21st, 2021 - Episode #56

Minisode Special: Decision Making w/ Vaccinations & Special Rheumy Rounds Announcement!

This episode, join your patient co-host, Tiffany Westrich-Robertson, CEO of the International Foundation for Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Arthritis, as she introduces the special report episode (airing Wednesday the 24th) on rheumy/patient communication vaccine issues and the importance of shared decision making.

January 24th, 2021 - Episode #54

COVID-19 & AiArthritis Series: Vaccine Questions & Mixed Messages

Tiffany and Dr Kim discuss the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Kim and his colleagues are leading a study called COVID-19 Vaccine Responses in Patients with Autoimmune Diseases which seeks to examine the quantity and quality of immune responses generated to the vaccine by autoimmune patients, as well as the safety of the vaccine for those patients. He provides answers to all of our patient-generated questions and provides actionable advice you can use to make the best decision for your own care.