[Experiences and results from Rheuma-VOR].

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and axial spondylarthritis are common chronic autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
• Early diagnosis and treatment initiation are critical for managing these conditions.
• The Rheuma-VOR study builds upon the ADAPTHERA project, expanding its reach to multiple federal states.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and axial spondylarthritis.
• To improve patient care quality through multidisciplinary coordinating centers.
• To assess the impact of a coordinated network approach on diagnosis and specialist capacity.

Main Methods:

• Prospective network study involving multidisciplinary coordinating centers.
• Registration of disease-specific questionnaires from primary care providers.
• Facilitation of appointments with rheumatology specialists for diagnosis.
• Implementation of risk stratification and coordinated cooperation.

Main Results:

• 3710 questionnaires registered from 1298 primary care providers.
• 1958 appointments made with 53 rheumatology specialists.
• Early diagnosis of one of the three rheumatic diseases achieved in 876 patients.
• Average waiting time of 42.5 days, below the nationwide average.
• Rheuma-VOR coordination centers reduced rheumatologist workload by 1281 appointments (34.5%).

Conclusions:

• The Rheuma-VOR network study effectively improves early diagnosis of key rheumatic diseases.
• Multidisciplinary coordination centers significantly reduce waiting times and specialist burden.
• Initiatives like the Rheuma Bus Tour show promising results for patient outreach and screening.