Optimizing the Quality of Care for Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Describe the rationale for early administration of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Discuss the 2010 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria for the classification of RA and their clinical implications. List the various comorbidities, complications, and extra-articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis and their methods of assessment in the primary care setting. Elucidate the importance of controlling systemic inflammation in improving extra-articular outcomes. Develop strategies for educating RA patients about the importance of medication adherence.