The likelihood of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain, increases with age. The prevalence is highest among those aged 65 years or older. Many older adults lack the support they need when it comes to their healthcare. Virtual specialty care can provide the support they need to manage their health as they age. Learn how Summus provided guidance and education to help Eleanor with her RA pain.
Health concern
Eleanor, the mother of a Summus member, had rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that had become more severe over the last year. She received numerous treatments during that time, but nothing seemed to help alleviate the pain she was experiencing. Feeling helpless and not knowing what to do to help ease Eleanor’s pain, the family reached out to Summus to learn if there were other treatments they could try.
Member impact
Within 24 hours, Eleanor was connected to Dr. Sohita Torgalkar, Summus MD, to discuss her goals to better understand her arthritis management and options. Dr. Torgalkar suggested a virtual consultation with Dr. Michael Weinblatt, Rheumatologist and Co-Director of Clinical Rheumatology at Harvard Medical School. Eleanor and her spouse met with Dr. Weinblatt who reassured the family about her current treatment path. He also shared the benefits of additional imaging to monitor disease progression, useful exercise programs, and pursuing a Mediterranean diet to reduce inflammation.
“Dr. Weinblatt provided excellent feedback about my RA treatment regimen and thoughtfully reviewed information about additional therapeutics, as well as non-medical options including diet, occupational therapy and exercise. It was also reassuring to learn that my current treatment course is on a solid path.”
More member stories
Read more member stories to learn about the impact Summus is making in the lives of so many people.
