The group of rheumatologists at the public San Juan de Dios Hospital in San José, Costa Rica opened an arthritis clinic, in order to treat patients in the early stages of the disease.

People who present possible symptoms of arthritis are scheduled for medical appointments on Thursday mornings at the clinic for early detection screenings.

From January to date, about 300 people have gone through the clinic and 43 are receiving treatment.

Alexis Méndez, a rheumatologist with the Costa Rican Social Security Agency (CCSS) who coordinates the clinic, said roughly 1 percent of the population is affected by rheumatoid arthritis, a disease more common in women.

“The goal is to offer them timely treatment for patients we detect in early stages of arthritis, and provide adequate follow-up so that the evolution of their disease will be satisfactory and we avoid negative consequences in the long term,” explained Mendez.

Arthritis manifests with joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, often manifested in the fingers, but may affect other joints such as shoulders, knees, or feet.

If the disease is not controlled at an early stage, it can cause disability, in addition to affecting other organs.

“I was … in constant pain … and I felt I was going to die. Now I feel like new, thanks to the doctors,” said Romelia Picado, a patient at the clinic, in a press statement by the hospital.

This clinic is based on a new model of care used worldwide called “treat-to-target.”

The goal is to have greater contact with patients to modify treatments so they are more successful, and thus slow the progression the disease.

Patients referred to the clinic are seen in less than two weeks, and a month later have the first follow-up appointment; follow by appointments every two or three months.

Patients can also receive an ultrasound at these appointments.