If you can access your prior lab results and visit summaries it helps to have
them sent over in advance of your appointment. Have hard printouts with you if available. The list of current meds is important at intake for their office assistants. Script your visit on an index card with your most pertinent symptoms and concerns. If you have a helpful companion for an extra pair of ears that can be comforting. You are examining the doctor as well. Did they
explain your treatment plan and acknowledge your history. Don’t expect too
much from the initial visit. It can take months to arrive at rheumatological
diagnosis and symptom control.