@betsyhase and all... Good for you! Perhaps a follow-up call to your PCP for a consult referral from him will speed things up a bit. Yes, he need to understand how this is affecting you, daily and overall. Important to write down your symptoms before speaking with him or his staff so you are sure to get everything said. Also, ask to be put on the wait list for the first available appointment with the Rheumatologist. Use those words. They will understand you 'know what you're doing' and really need to see this new doc.

My advice after years of struggling with the systems of several medical facilities!!!
Blessings, Elizabeth