Because of the high incidence of rheumatologic diseases at Gila River, notably rheumatoid arthritis, we hired a full time rheumatologist to provide continuity care for our patients.  Rheumatologic diseases can be crippling and have a strong deleterious effect the the quality of life of our patients.  Our rheumatologist carefully evaluates each patient and develops a management plan to minimize the effects of these debilitating diseases.