Not Sure Your Treatment’s Working? Say More

Music track throughout.

DR. JAIN (OC): You’ve spent months—maybe years—on your PsA treatment, but you still have symptoms. You know feeling just “OK” isn’t OK, but you’re not sure how to ask for a treatment change.

DR. JAIN (OC): I get it. Let’s look at how to make the conversation easier.

RHEUMATOLOGIST: So, Pam, you’ve been on your treatment for 3 months. How’s it going?

PAM: It’s OK. My hands still feel stiff so it can be tough to do stuff like text and type...and this skin plaque, it just won’t go away.

I guess I just need to give it more time to kick in.

DR. JAIN (POP-UP): Actually, if you haven’t seen symptoms improve by 3 months, don’t hesitate to discuss a treatment change.

RHEUMATOLOGIST: Let’s talk about your goals...

PAM: I’d like to feel good wearing short sleeves again. Or just wake up without my hands all locked up.

Are there any other treatments to consider?

DR. JAIN (POP-UP): Now, that was helpful.

Sharing detailed symptoms and personal goals is critical in assessing your current and future treatment.

PAM: Of course, I want my joints and skin plaques to get better, but making any treatment change is nerve-wracking. I’m scared of getting worse again, you know? What if it doesn’t work? Am I going to run out of options?

RHEUMATOLOGIST: Well, there are lots of different treatments, and they work in different ways...

PAM: OK, I’d love to hear about some.

DR. JAIN (POP-UP): Feeling concerned about losing any progress you’ve made is normal. It’s important to bring up these concerns with your doctor—using your voice and making sure you’re heard can make all the difference.

DR. JAIN (cont’d): Remember, if you still have symptoms—say more. Your doctor doesn’t want you settling for treatment that isn’t working. And you don’t have to.