Healthcare providers
Find out who can help you manage your arthritis and what each member of your care team does
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A small group of two or three healthcare professionals in a relaxed, collegial setting — suggesting a team that works together. Alternatively, a single allied health professional in a one-to-one session with a person living with arthritis — for example a physiotherapist guiding a gentle movement exercise, or an occupational therapist at a table with a person working through a practical task.
Your healthcare team can help you manage your arthritis. Learn ways to work effectively with your healthcare team.
A range of healthcare professionals may be involved in helping you manage your arthritis. Find out what each member of your healthcare team does and how to find them. Get tips on getting the most from a visit to your health professional.
General practitioner (GP, local doctor or family doctor)
Your GP is usually your main provider of health care. They should be your first point of contact for any concerns you have about your arthritis or other health issues. Your GP can help you coordinate your overall health care, including making referrals to specialists if needed. Your GP may also have a Practice Nurse. A practice nurse can provide information and coordinate your care with the other members of your healthcare team.
Medical specialists
Your GP can refer you to an appropriate specialist. Your GP may recommend a specialist for you, or you may wish to choose your own. Most specialists see patients either at public hospitals or in private clinics. They may charge a fee for your appointment if working outside the public hospital system. This fee may be partly reimbursed through Medicare. Check the likely costs when making an appointment. If cost is a problem, discuss this with your GP.
- Rheumatologist: A rheumatologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosis and medical treatment of joint, muscle and bone disorders. You may be referred to a rheumatologist if the cause of your symptoms is unclear or if you have a type of arthritis that needs specialist care.
- Orthopaedic surgeon: An orthopaedic surgeon specialises in diagnosis and surgical treatment of bone, muscle and joint disorders. The surgeon will discuss your need for surgery and other management options with you.
- Pain specialist: a doctor with extra training in understanding and treating chronic pain. They can help if your pain is hard to manage with standard treatments. They’ll work with you to find the right mix of medicines, therapies and self-management strategies to improve your quality of life.
- Ophthalmologist An ophthalmologist is a doctor who specialises in eye health. Some types of arthritis, such as ankylosing spondylitis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, can affect the eyes. An ophthalmologist can diagnose and treat eye conditions linked to arthritis, such as uveitis (inflammation of the eye).
Allied health professionals
The following health professionals may also help you manage your arthritis:
- Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They provide advice about healthy eating, weight loss and diets for medical conditions, such as diabetes.
- Exercise physiologists can give you advice about exercise, including the best types of exercise for your health and ability.
- Occupational therapists (OT) can show you ways to make activities of daily living, such as cooking and showering, easier and provide advice on useful aids or equipment.
- Physiotherapists can advise you on exercise, posture and ways to relieve pain. They may also use treatments to keep your joints and muscles flexible.
- Podiatrists specialise in conditions affecting the feet. They can help you with footwear, nail care and orthoses (shoe inserts).
- Psychologists can teach you ways to cope with any pain and difficult emotions you feel as a result of your arthritis.
- Social Worker can help you deal with the emotional, practical and financial challenges of living with arthritis. They can connect you with community services, help you access financial support and assist with aged care or disability planning. Ask your GP or specialist for a referral.
Nurses
- Rheumatology Nurses are nurses with a specialist knowledge in arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions. They will work in the clinic with your Rheumatologist. They can provide you with education, support and advice on your diagnosis and on-going management of your disease.
- A Nurse Practitioner is a registered nurse with additional experience and expertise to diagnose and treat people of all ages with a variety of acute or chronic health conditions. This includes taking histories, performing physical examinations, interpreting results and developing a treatment plan, referring to other specialists and prescribing some PBS medicines.
Pharmacists
- Pharmacists can help you to understand your medicines (both prescription and over-the-counter medicines) and how to use them safely and correctly. Many Pharmacists now are registered to supply and administer vaccines, making it easier to stay up-to-date. Also, some Pharmacists have had extended training and can help manage common health problems like urinary tract infections, and minor skin conditions.
Aboriginal Health Workers
Aboriginal Health Workers provides health care and support that is culturally safe and appropriate. They can help you understand your diagnosis, navigate the health system and connect with the right services. If you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, an Aboriginal Health Worker can make it easier to get the care that’s right for you.
Page reviewed and updated May 2026