Specialties: Adult rheumatology with an emphasis on rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, anklylosing spondylitis, and other systemic inflammatory diseases. Professional Education: Emory Univ. School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 1986, cum laude Mercer University, Macon, GA, 1982, summa cum laude Internship: Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center, Aurora, CO , 1987 Residency: Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center, Aurora, CO , 1989 Fellowship: Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center, Aurora, CO , 1993 Board Certification: Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, 2004 Years with DAC: 10

I entered the field of rheumatology because I enjoy long-term relationships with my patients.  Unfortunately, rheumatic diseases are often life long problems.  I believe that the physician and patient must become partners in the management of a chronic illness.  I consider it extremely important to listen to the patient, and respect each person’s opinions and priorities in the development of their treatment plan.  I also consider it very important to keep the patient’s primary care physician and other healthcare providers informed of the patient’s illness, medications and status. 

I currently serve on the teaching faculty at the University of Colorado-Denver School of Medicine, assisting with the training of medical students, residents and rheumatology fellows at Denver Health Medical Center.