This ECHO series creates a virtual space where primary care providers and specialists can collaborate to increase access to care for patients with rheumatologic disease and promote awareness of the impact of rheumatologic disease on the health and wellness of patients in the primary medical home. The series will focus on early disease identification, efficient and effective evaluations, improved transitions of care for patients in need, and broaden the range of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions appropriate for the primary medical home. We will build connections between healthcare providers to maximize patient evaluation and to facilitate consultations and co-management.

The growing rheumatologist work force shortage is affecting patient access to rheumatologic care across the country. The asymmetric distribution of rheumatologists and current health economic trends mean that this shortage is going to be felt greatest in rural regions and safety net medical homes. We hope to build an ECHO-driven virtual medical neighborhood that can be part of the solution.

Enhanced Case Management sessions include a brief didactic presentation by an expert and discussion of participant-submitted cases.