Doctors and services — Rheumatologist

Rheumatologist — what to know

A rheumatologist deals with diseases of the joints, muscles and connective tissue. People see one for joint pain, swelling or morning stiffness, for gout, for back pain that does not go away, and for rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. The visit often includes blood tests and, when needed, a joint ultrasound.

What happens at the visit

The rheumatologist asks when and in which joints the pain and stiffness appear, looks at and feels the joints and checks how they move. The blood and imaging results help to pin down the cause and choose a treatment.

Before the visit

Bring an identity document, the results of earlier tests and any discharge summaries, and a list of the medicines you take.

Bring your latest blood tests and the images of your joints. It helps to note which joints hurt and how long the morning stiffness lasts.

Visits paid by НЗОК (NHIF)

A specialist visit paid by НЗОК (NHIF) usually needs a referral from your GP; a referral is valid for 30 days. A paid visit is possible without one. Whether the doctor sees НЗОК patients, which health funds they work with and the price are on their profile.

Source: NHIF (nhif.bg)

Updated on 10/11/2026

In an emergency, call 112.