What does a pediatric rheumatologist do?

A pediatric rheumatologist works with children to diagnose musculoskeletal and some autoimmune rheumatic disease. As a pediatric rheumatologist, you work at a hospital or outpatient clinic, developing treatment plans for patients. Your responsibilities include researching rheumatological diseases and conditions, staying abreast of advances in treatment and diagnosis, to further inform your treatments for rheumatic conditions. You must have superb problem-solving skills and an ability to connect and empathize with children to fully grasp their ailments. Your duties require active collaboration with therapists, surgeons, and other specialists, as you outline treatment plans for patients and communicate with parents and caregivers. With considerable experience, you may transition into working as an instructor, such as at a medical school or by mentoring rheumatology interns.