Autoimmune diseases require a uniquely holistic plan of attack. If you have relapsing polychondritis or “RP”, there’s a 30% chance that you have an additional autoimmune disorder. Given RP affects the whole body and many organs, treatment may require a team of specialists, from a rheumatologist to treat swollen joints to a nephrologist to check for kidney damage to a pulmonologist to help patients breath more easily. For most patients, this intensive care regimen demands hours of vetting doctors, traveling from one office to another, and calling to have records updated and shared — but not for those receiving treatment at the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Autoimmunity Institute.
Based at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, the AHN Autoimmunity Institute uses a multidisciplinary approach, national best-practice data, and novel therapies to combine research, clinical trials, primary care, specialization, community outreach, and advocacy. “With this unique venture, we are taking an innovative approach to helping raise awareness about autoimmune diseases and the resources that are available to those who suffer from them,” says Joseph Ahearn, MD, the AHN’s chair.
Because seventy-five percent of those with an autoimmune disorder are women, Allegheny Health Network also caters to their unique needs, not just with gynecologists and specialists in breast cancer, but also with experts in mood disorders, preventive care, and cardiovascular health. They even hold tours of their maternity unit and a child CPR and safety course.
Over 50 million Americans suffer from one of the more than 100 autoimmune diseases (click here for a full list), and each one deserves the quality of integrated care offered at West Penn Hospital. “The AHN Autoimmunity Institute is a major step forward towards achieving our goal of having medical providers bringing a coordinated approach for the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases,” said Virginia T. Ladd, President and Executive Director of the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association.
To schedule an appointment with the AHN Autoimmunity Institute, contact:
Jennifer (“Jen”) Ferri
AHN Autoimmunity Institute
(833) 242-8246 work
Jennifer.Ferri@AHN.org
To find the location of an AHN provider, click here.
To connect with an AHN specialist, click here.
To learn more about the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, click here.
To learn more about the Relapsing Polychondritis Awareness and Support Foundation, click here or find us on Facebook.
