Research Focus: Patient Programs

Brigham and Women's Lupus Program

In 2016, the Brigham and Women's Lupus Program was created to integrate the expert multidisciplinary clinical care of the Brigham and Women’s Lupus Center with the cutting-edge clinical, translational and basic research relating to lupus in the Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation and Immunity at BWH and Harvard Medical School.

To schedule an appointment, make a referral, or learn more about the consultative services at the BWH Lupus Center, please call (617) 732-5515 or fax us your medical information at (617) 732-5766.

For more information, please visit us at the BWH Lupus Program website.

Leadership

  • Karen H. Costenbader, MD, MPH
  • Peter Schur, MD
  • Elena Massarotti, MD

Patient-Centered Outcomes Initiative (PACO)

The goal of the Patient-Centered Outcomes Initiative (PACO) is to create a replicable model of patient-centered care so as to improve the patient’s treatment with rheumatoid arthritis and ultimately, yield improved outcomes. This patient-centered focus enhances patient-doctor communication as well as improves patient self-management, compliance, and satisfaction with their care. Components of PACO include a Patient Advisory Committee, interviews with rheumatologists and fellows, occasional seminars, as well as a health log to ensure a thorough and efficient visit with the physician. This PACO program is unique in that it not only helps patients better understand their disease but also helps physicians and other healthcare providers better understand their patients.

Investigators

  • Nancy A. Shadick, MD, MPH
  • Michael Weinblatt, MD
  • Jonathan Coblyn, MD

Patient Rheumatoid Arthritis Social Support (PARASS)

The chief goal of Patient Rheumatoid Arthritis Social Support Initiative (PARASS) is to create innovative social support services for RA patients. In doing so, the PARASS study promotes a thorough understanding of the disease from the patient’s perspective as well as from that of the physician. PARASS is composed of a Patient-to-Patient Connection, and includes a video journaling aspect so that patients may share their stories about living with RA.

Investigators

  • Nancy A. Shadick, MD, MPH
  • Michael E. Weinblatt, MD