Using data from a community practice-based rheumatologist network, this article explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rheumatology care and the use of telehealth.
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This study explores concerns and behaviors of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Information on COVID-19 rapidly emerged and expanded at the onset of the pandemic. The purpose of this review is to identify specific threats to the validity of the COVID-19 literature and to recommend resources for practicing rheumatologists and their patients.
The COVID-19 pandemic introduced many new challenges to patients with rheumatic disease. This longitudinal study assessed trends in anxiety and interruptions in disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) use among patients with rheumatic disease.
The use of telemedicine surged during the pandemic. Researchers investigated perceptions and preferences regarding telemedicine among patients with autoimmune rheumatic disease.
This study analyzes concerns and health behaviors in patients with vasculitis during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in North America.
Impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic were studied in patients with and without autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The authors aimed to compare concerns, social distancing, healthcare disruptions, and telemedicine use in these patients. Concerns about COVID-19 and social distancing behaviors were similar in both groups although patients receiving a biologic or Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor reported greater concerns and were more likely to avoid leaving the house and engage in social activities. Patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases were less likely to avoid office visits with similar telemedicine use. Missed office visits were strongly associated with interruptions in immunomodulatory medication.
