Rheumatology Second Opinions — One Consultation, Clear Recommendations
Get an independent perspective on your diagnosis, test results, or treatment options from a board-certified rheumatologist.
Your Consultation Includes
One-Time Consultation — $495
- Review of relevant medical records submitted before your appointment.
- A 60-minute video consultation.
- A personalized written assessment and recommendations.
- One brief clarification exchange within 14 days.
No subscription. No ongoing-care commitment.
Is This Service Right for You?
A consultation may be helpful if you want:
- Another perspective on a rheumatology diagnosis.
- Clarification of abnormal autoimmune blood tests.
- A review of treatment options.
- Guidance on the next steps to discuss with your treating clinician.
Requests are reviewed for suitability before an appointment is confirmed. Some concerns require an in-person examination or ongoing specialist care.
About Dr. Karia
Dr. Vijay Karia is a board-certified rheumatologist — also board-certified in internal medicine — and a Qualified Medical Evaluator for the state of California. He has practiced rheumatology for over a decade, specializing in rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, osteoarthritis, and a range of autoimmune conditions. He earned his medical degree from St. George's University, completed internal medicine training at Michigan State University, and completed his rheumatology fellowship at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Through RheumMD, he offers independent second opinions to patients in California and Texas.
How It Works
1. Request a consultation.
2. Complete your intake and submit records securely through SigmaMD.
3. Meet by video for your scheduled consultation.
4. Receive written recommendations to share with your treating clinician.
Consultation Only — not Ongoing Management
RheumMD provides a focused consultation and second opinion. This service does not include routine prescriptions, refills, ongoing medication monitoring, or urgent-care coverage.
Your treating clinician remains responsible for implementing recommendations and providing continuing care. We will explain when additional evaluation or an in-person examination is recommended.
Important Information
- Appointments are available on selected days each month, subject to eligibility and suitability review.
- This service is not intended for emergencies. For a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency care.
- Please do not submit medical records or sensitive health information through the public website contact form. Secure submission instructions will be provided.
Medicare Eligibility
RheumMD is not currently accepting patients enrolled in Medicare, including Medicare Advantage, for this self-pay consultation service. Please seek consultation through a Medicare-participating clinician or your health plan's provider network.
Cancellation & Refunds
- Cancel more than 48 hours before your appointment for a full refund.
- If your request is declined after suitability review, you receive a full refund.
- Cancellations within 48 hours of the appointment are non-refundable.
- Once the consultation is completed, the fee is non-refundable.