The Rapid Access Early Inflammatory Arthritis Service provides rapid access for patients with new early (less than six months of symptoms) peripheral inflammatory arthritis (not inflammatory back pain) to commence disease-modifying therapy, where appropriate, as rapidly as possible.

There is increasing evidence to suggest that early intervention is crucial in preventing long-term joint damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis and direct referral to this service will help to bypass any potential delays in triage. The criteria for referral is two or more swollen joints in the hands or wrists and joint pain for less than six months.

Consultant rheumatologists and clinical nurse specialists jointly manage the patients with the intention of rapidly achieving disease remission.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

• two or more swollen joints in the hands or wrists and joint pain for less than six months.

How to Refer