I was never referred to a rheumatologist. I am now 74 and was diagnosed by my GP in Feb 2020 just prior to lockdown in March. After that most consults were online or by phone for some time. I only heard about involvement of rheumatologists through this forum! Same story for a close friend. I am not in North America but a country with good general healthcare but maybe less access to
specialists other than in major cities or private clinics beyond my financial means.
I went off Prednisone after tapering on 31st Jan 2021 and have managed minor flares since then by myself. After reviewing hours of medical info and a phone discussion with a different GP off the record as there are no exemptions of any kind here, I chose to remain unvaccinated for CV due to having PMR and another pre-existing condition. I am in excellent health, exercise every day and use supplements and OTC meds only.