PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Theodora P M Vliet Vlieland
AU  - Linda C Li
AU  - Crystal MacKay
AU  - Claire Bombardier
AU  - Elizabeth M Badley
TI  - Current topics on models of care in the management of inflammatory arthritis.
DP  - 2006 Sep 01
TA  - The Journal of Rheumatology
PG  - 1900--1903
VI  - 33
IP  - 9
4099  - http://www.jrheum.org/content/33/9/1900.short
4100  - http://www.jrheum.org/content/33/9/1900.full
SO  - J Rheumatol2006 Sep 01; 33
AB  - While there is strong evidence supporting a multidisciplinary team approach in arthritis management, access and use are hindered by limited human and financial resources. To safeguard the provision of comprehensive care throughout the disease trajectory, alternative care models are being developed. Three promising arthritis care models include the use of information technology and telemedicine, patient initiated care, and extended roles of health professionals. Future research projects should focus on: (1) the cost-effectiveness of information technology for exchange of patient-based data and education and management support; (2) the characteristics and needs of patients who can versus those who cannot self-manage; (3) strategies to improve access to care for patients with early arthritis, such as extending roles of health professionals to include triage; and (4) further structuring and standardizing rheumatology training of nursing and allied health professionals.