Alert

The Rheumatology service is changing the way they work to help patients speak to the right person in a timely way. 

The new system will give people ringing an option to be put through to the admin team or to a clinician. 

The clinician line will only be open 9:30am until 12 midday from Monday to Friday, and it will require the caller to leave a voicemail.

This will generate an email that the clinician will be able to respond to. 

We are also changing the structure of the clinicians work so that we can ensure that there is someone available most days of the week to respond to clinical queries.

The admin part of the new system this will be responded to using a call queuing system so people will know where they are in the queue so can make a decision whether to stay on the line or call back. 

We are really excited about this development as it will mean that we are ensuring that queries are dealt with by the right person first time, this will hopefully improve the patient experience.

We can provide treatment and support if you have any of these conditions:

  • autoimmune disease e.g. lupus
  • crystal arthropathies, e.g. gout
  • inflammatory back problems e.g. ankylosing spondylitis
  • inflammatory blood vessel conditions e.g. vasculitis
  • inflammatory joint conditions e.g. rheumatoid arthritis
  • metabolic bone disorders, e.g. osteoporosis
  • musculoskeletal infections


We can also help you with:

  • diagnosis and treatment of early inflammatory arthritis

If you’re referred to Rheumatology, you’ll be invited for an assessment with one of our consultants. During the appointment, we’ll discuss your medical history, family history, current medications and symptoms. We may also do a:

  • physical examination
  • ultrasound scan
  • blood test or
  • refer you for further tests and investigations

Once we’ve made our assessment, we’ll discuss your results and go through your options in detail. Together we’ll agree on the best option for you and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatments options may include:

  • new medication
  • advice on how to manage your condition
  • follow up appointments to see how you’re getting on
  • referral to other services such as Physiotherapy
  • soft tissue and joint injections

You may also be seen by one of our specialist nurses or occupational therapists for practical help, advice, support and education about your condition.

Call 01228 608300

Cumberland Infirmary
Lower ground floor

West Cumberland Hospital
Level 3
Skiddaw ward

Attend Anywhere

This service offers video consultations using Attend Anywhere. This means your consultation can take place from your own home using a secure website.