Limits of outpatient rheumatology care

BACKGROUND In recent years outpatient rheumatology has developed into one of the most important pillars of rheumatological care. The better diagnostic possibilities, the well-founded training of rheumatologists and the diverse guidelines have led to increasingly more patients being diagnosed as outpatients and can be treated by the most modern options as outpatients. Nevertheless, limits have also been set for outpatient rheumatology. OBJECTIVE This article aims to highlight what the limits of outpatient rheumatology currently are and who sets the limits. The presentation of the limitations should help all participants in the healthcare system to avoid false expectations and frustration; however, limits can also be relocated or overcome by appropriate motivation. The long-term target should be a further improvement in the interaction between outpatient and inpatient rheumatology and therefore the rheumatological care of patients. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The medical limits of outpatient rheumatology are relatively clear and predominantly uncontroversial, the unjustified referral to the inpatient section is, for example, relatively rarely a problem. Some theoretically possible outpatient interventions are carried out in the inpatient sector more due to logistical problems. The healthcare political and legal limitations of outpatient rheumatological institutions are greater. Despite further limitations of outpatient rheumatology this discipline and the outpatient activity still represents an exciting, modern and last but not least a very satisfying activity, which is promoted here.