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Frequently Asked Questions About Rheumatology

The following are frequently asked questions in the Rheumatology Department. If you have further questions or would like more information, please call Virginia Mason Medical Center at 206-223-6824.

  • The Rheumatology Department at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offers services in four locations in the Puget Sound area: Virginia Mason Medical Center, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion - Federal Way, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion - Kirkland,  and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion - Lynnwood. View our services.

  • In the Rheumatology Department, the diagnostic and therapeutic work is done in close connection with orthopedic, pulmonary and rehabilitation specialists, as well as at the Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason (BRI). 

  • Virginia Mason Franciscan Health's rheumatologists diagnose and treat patients in various locations. Meet our providers.

  • Contact your pharmacy for medication refills. For medications that require physician approval, call our office at 206-223-6824.

  • Contact your pharmacy to have a refill authorization submitted. It's important to stay up-to-date with your required lab work.

  • Lab work allows your provider to review your progress and to catch potentially harmful trends. Certain medications require careful monitoring. Your provider will inform you about how often lab work should be performed. Certain medication prescriptions will only be refilled after the review of your lab work results.

  • Contact your provider if you develop fever, chills, swelling, hot joints, open sores, or cold symptoms. Call 911 immediately if you develop shortness of breath, chest pain, or blurred vision.

  • Your provider will inform you how often to return to the clinic. If you develop symptoms that require an earlier appointment, contact your clinic. It is important that you follow the directions for follow-up visits with your provider and provide at least 24-hours notice for cancellations.