Since our patients love working with our compassionate and experienced staff here at Voyage Healthcare, we’ve decided to showcase some of our amazing providers who are passionate about their field and the care given.

We recently sat down with our rheumatologist, Dr. Asim Khan, to discuss all things rheumatology.

Meet Voyage Healthcare’s Rheumatologist

Dr. Khan is Voyage Healthcare’s rheumatologist who travels between our Robbinsdale and Maple Grove locations to help those suffering from rheumatic diseases. Dr. Khan has been practicing rheumatology for 21 years and joined the Voyage Healthcare team in 2013. Learn more about Dr. Khan’s educational background below:

Education:

• Medical School - Sind Medical College (Pakistan)
• Residency - University of Connecticut (New York)
• Residency - Columbia University (New York)
• Fellowship in Rheumatology - Mount Sinai Hospital (New York)
• Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine - Rheumatology

Dr. Khan was recently voted one of Minnesota Monthly’s Top Doctors for 2018-2019!

6 Interesting Q&A’s from Dr. Khan

1. How does one become a rheumatologist?

You have to attend medical school first, then take part in residency programs, followed by a fellowship in the specific field of rheumatology.

2. What made you want to study rheumatology?

I saw that young people chose not to go into this field of study. It was also a very challenging time in 1995, as new drug therapies hit the market. Today, rheumatic diseases may be treated with biological agents.

3. What are ways you suggest those suffering from rheumatic diseases do to alleviate their pain?

It’s best to come to Voyage Healthcare, as we have some of the best medicine to help.

4. What are 5 common questions you get from patients about rheumatic diseases?

• I am in pain
• Will I be deformed?
• Will I have my internal organs damaged?
• Will I be able to walk?
• Will I be able to carry on my daily actives?

5. What is the typical age of patients you see at Voyage Healthcare?

I’ve seen the age range from 18 to 100 years old.

6. What are some significant advancements in rheumatic care?

The biological agents are truly changing the way for rheumatic care.

History of Rheumatology

Rheumatology is made up of roughly 100 known diseases that deal with the musculoskeletal system. These diseases have been around for many centuries, although they’ve been studied in the U.S. for only 90 years. While the American study of rheumatic diseases has occurred for a few decades, from a historical approach, these diseases have been around for quite some time.

The article, Historical Perspective on the Etiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis states “from a historical perspective evidence for the existence of RA in various eras and locations has come from analyses of ancient texts, Renaissance artwork and, more…” which offers a great discussion on how rheumatoid arthritis has been present through artwork, ancient text, and skeletal remains, yet rheumatology is still a subject that needs much more studying.

Dr. Khan noted that “there is a national shortage of rheumatologists, and we’re still seeing that shortage today.”  As Baby Boomers in the industry are now retiring, it’s crucial for more people to get into this specific field of medicine. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “estimates that 54.4 million (22.7%) U.S. adults suffer from arthritis,” and projects that “by 2040, an estimated 78 million (26%) US adults aged 18 years or older are projected to have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.” So, it’s clear that there is a need for more rheumatologists like Dr. Khan!

Control Your Joint Pain with Voyage Healthcare

One thing that Dr. Khan stressed is how wonderful Voyage Healthcare is with the vast amount of services under one roof. Whether you need to see a rheumatologist, get up-to-date on immunizations, have an annual physical, or more, the amount of healthcare offered in one spot is truly fantastic.

Schedule an appointment with one of our providers. You’ll be in good hands with our trusted network of staff who are eager to get you back to feeling your best!