Rheumatology - joint health

Your family doctor will refer you to the rheumatology service for review of conditions involving the joints, muscles and bones. Your visit may occur at Hawke’s Bay Fallen Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital in Hastings, or at Napier Health.  

A rheumatologist is a specialist who will discuss with you the possible diagnosis and what further tests or treatments are recommended.  

After the appointment your family doctor will be contacted about your diagnosis, results of tests and a plan of care. You may have ongoing follow-up in the rheumatology service before being forwarded on to another service for help with your condition, or being discharged back to the care of your family doctor.