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 new onset rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis and direct referral to this service will help to bypass any potential delays in triage.

Only refer patients if there are two or more swollen joints in the hands or wrists documented on a face to face examination and joint pain for less than six months. Complete the referral form and also a short letter or paragraph giving relevant medical details. If patients do not meet these criteria please do not refer to the early arthritis clinic.

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

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

• Aged 18yrs and over
• Two or more swollen joints in the hands or wrists and joint pain for less than six months.

How to Refer