Patient FAQs: Office & Billing Questions
What insurance carriers does Arthritis Medical Clinic accept?
We accept most insurances. If you are not sure about your plan, call us at (951) 781-7700 before your visit.
Do I need a referral from my insurance carrier, medical group, or primary care physician?
Yes, if you have an HMO plan. All HMO plans need written approval (an authorization) from your primary care doctor. If you come without the approval you need, you can pay for the visit or move it to another day once you have it. Getting the right approval is up to the patient.
What do I need to bring for my first appointment?
Bring your insurance card and your driver's license or photo ID. Bring any medical records that matter for your visit, such as your latest lab and X-ray results. Also bring a list of the medicines you take. Please come 30 minutes before your visit to fill out the forms you need.
Do I have to pay at the time of my appointment?
Your co-pay for a specialist visit is due when you check in. You also pay toward your deductible if you have not met it yet. If you are not sure what you will owe, please call our office at (951) 781-7700 before your visit. Our team will be glad to help.
Does your office accept credit cards for payment?
Yes. We take Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. We also take cash, checks and money orders. A check that bounces costs a $50 fee.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
Please let our office know 72 hours ahead. Then we can give that time to another patient.
Will the doctor discuss my test results over the telephone?
We go over all test results at your next office visit. But if a result is life-threatening, the doctor will call you to talk about it. If you have questions between visits, please call our office at (951) 781-7700. Our team will help you.
Questions About Arthritis
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis means pain and swelling in the joints. Joints are the places where bones meet, such as the knees, hands or hips. It can cause stiffness, swelling and trouble moving. Arthritis has many types. The most common are osteoarthritis, where the joint breaks down over time, and rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system attacks the joints.
What are the different types of arthritis?
Arthritis has more than 100 types. The most common are osteoarthritis, where joint cartilage breaks down, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease. Others include psoriatic arthritis (linked to psoriasis), gout (crystals in a joint), lupus arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (mostly in the spine) and juvenile arthritis (in children under 16).
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
Common signs of arthritis are joint pain, stiffness, swelling and less movement. Many people also notice warmth or redness around the joint. Stiffness in the morning that gets better as you move is common, too. Over time, joints can get harder to move, and the area may feel weak or sore.
What causes arthritis?
The cause depends on the type of arthritis. Common causes include joints breaking down over time, autoimmune disease, uric acid crystals, and joint injuries or infections. Your genes, age and weight can also raise your risk. Because the causes differ, your rheumatologist first finds your type. Then they plan your treatment.
Get the Specialized Joint Care You Deserve
Since 1978, Arthritis Medical Clinic has helped patients across the Inland Empire manage pain and keep their joints working. Our board-certified rheumatologists give care that is made for you and based on proven science. We treat hard-to-manage diseases of the immune system, joints and muscles.
