Hoosier hospitality and expert rheumatology care in Indiana
Hoosier hospitality and expert rheumatology care in Indiana
AndHealth brings compassionate Indiana rheumatology care directly to you, helping manage RA, AS, and PsA so you can keep enjoying everything the Hoosier State offers with confidence.
From Pacers games to county fair traditions, Indiana living is about community and comfort. Your autoimmune condition shouldn’t change that.
Conditions we treat
Hoosiers value straightforward, dependable care—and that’s exactly what autoimmune rheumatology conditions require. With rheumatoid arthritis affecting approximately 0.6-1% of the population, ankylosing spondylitis impacting about 0.10%, and psoriatic arthritis affecting roughly 0.24% of commercially insured adults, thousands of Indiana residents are navigating these conditions alongside work, family, and community commitments.
Comprehensive treatment plans for Indiana patients
The encouraging news is that with proper treatment—including disease-modifying drugs, biologics, and comprehensive lifestyle support—people with these conditions are maintaining active, fulfilling lives throughout Indiana. From managing symptoms during humid summer days and nights, to staying active through sometimes harsh winter days, your AndHealth care team develops personalized strategies that work with Indiana’s climate and your individual lifestyle.
Indiana’s strong work ethic means many residents push through pain rather than seeking help, but early treatment dramatically improves long-term outcomes for all three conditions.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Your AndHealth team understands that rheumatology conditions create challenges that extend far beyond joint pain. Whether you’re dealing with rheumatoid arthritis’ morning stiffness that affects your shift schedule, your AndHealth 4-provider care team (per patient!) provides comprehensive care that addresses your whole person health.
Ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis spine pain that makes long drives across Indiana’s rural stretches difficult, as ankylosing spondylitis primarily targets the spine and can cause morning stiffness lasting hours without treatment. Comprehensive, whole person care helps all AS and other symptoms improve.
Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis uniquely combines joint inflammation with skin symptoms, affecting up to 30% of people with psoriasis, which is where AndHealth can pull both a dermatologist and rheumatologist onto your care team to treat your psoriatic arthritis symptoms from multiple specialties.
Your rheumatology team
Gregory M. Bell, MD
Rheumatologist
Office locations
Anderson
1210B Medical Arts Blvd #300
Anderson, IN 46011
Indianapolis
6020 Crawfordsville Rd Suite 102
Indianapolis, IN 46224
Noblesville
17840 Cumberland Rd
Noblesville, IN 46060
Greenfield
1107 N State St
Greenfield, IN 46140
Not near these locations?
Virtual video visits available for Indiana & Ohio residents
How a virtual rheumatology visit works
We want you to feel as comfortable in an online appointment as you would in person. Here’s how a virtual appointment works.
You and your doctor will join a video call at a place most convenient to you - at home, work, your car, etc.
Choose somewhere quiet where you can speak freely, and where you have a good internet connection.
Your nearest Community Health Center can also provide a private room with a computer where you can join your appointment (reserved in advance).
Your rheumatologist will ask you where you are experiencing symptoms.
They will ask you to show the affected joints on camera to confirm swelling, redness, or other factors.
Your rheumatologist may ask you to press on your joints and report how it feels, as part of the evaluation.
When swelling or other symptoms are hard to visualize, your rheumatologist will order imaging (x-ray or MRI) to get more information, as they would during an in-person exam.
When you are in a flare, or having a hard day, an online appointment can be much easier to join.
An online appointment saves you time from driving to an office, sitting in a waiting room, and then seeing your provider.
An online appointment should feel as unrushed and thorough as in person.
We want you to always feel that you can ask all of your questions, report on how you've been feeling, and help us create or modify the best treatment plan for you.
Personalized treatments & care unique to Indiana
Indiana’s healthcare landscape offers distinct advantages that AndHealth maximizes for your comprehensive rheumatology care. The state’s central location provides access to major medical centers like the Indiana University School of Medicine, which collaborates directly with IU Health to bring cutting-edge research findings to patient care, including rheumatology fellowship programs and ongoing autoimmune research.
We understand Indiana’s diverse economic landscape, from agricultural communities to manufacturing centers to tech hubs like Indianapolis. Your care plan adapts to your work environment—whether that’s shift work at manufacturing plants, seasonal agricultural schedules, office environments, or remote work from a home office. Our telehealth capabilities are particularly valuable for Indiana’s rural residents, eliminating long drives to specialist appointments during busy harvest seasons, hectic school weeks for the kids, or winter weather.
Rheumatology treatment plans for all of Anderson’ residents
Indiana’s insurance environment, including strong state employee benefits and major employer health plans from companies like Eli Lilly, Cummins, and Cook Medical, typically supports comprehensive autoimmune rheumatology care. Your AndHealth team maximizes these benefits while providing coordinated care that reduces the typical barriers—no referral requirements, appointments available in 1-2 weeks, and comprehensive support from our five-provider care team.
We coordinate seamlessly with Indiana’s established rheumatology networks, including Rheumatology Associates in Indianapolis, IU Health’s arthritis and rheumatology programs, and regional centers throughout the state. When specialized procedures or additional imaging is needed, your care continues uninterrupted with proper transitions and communication.
Your treatment plan considers Indiana’s seasonal lifestyle patterns. Summer brings county fairs, outdoor festivals, and increased agricultural activity, while winter often means reduced social interaction and activity levels. We help you maintain consistent medication schedules year-round while maximizing participation in community events that bring joy and social connection.
Indiana’s strong community networks become part of your care strategy, connecting you with local Arthritis Foundation chapters, workplace wellness programs common among the state’s major employers, and Indiana-specific patient assistance programs that help with specialty medication costs and transportation challenges.
Common RA, PsA, AS symptoms better & worse in Indiana
Indiana’s continental climate creates significant seasonal variations that impact rheumatology condition symptoms throughout the year. The state’s humidity changes, temperature swings, and frequent barometric pressure fluctuations from weather systems moving across the Midwest all influence joint pain and inflammation patterns that you’re experiencing with RA, AS, SpA and/or PsA.
Rheumatology symptoms made better in Indiana
Indiana’s spring and fall seasons often provide relief periods. Research indicates rheumatoid arthritis activity is typically lower during fall months, which aligns with many patients’ experiences during September and October when temperatures moderate and humidity decreases after summer’s peak.
Rheumatology symptoms affected by factors unique to Indiana
Summer humidity in Indiana can be particularly challenging for rheumatology conditions. With humidity often exceeding 70% during July and August mornings, many Indiana residents with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis report increased joint swelling and stiffness. Research shows higher humidity correlates with increased pain and stiffness, especially when combined with the temperature extremes common during Indiana summers.
Indiana winters bring harsh challenges for all rheumatology conditions. Average January temperatures often drop into the teens, with wind chills creating even more extreme conditions. Each 10-degree temperature drop is linked to increased arthritis pain, making Indiana’s winter temperature swings particularly problematic for joint symptoms. This is especially challenging for ankylosing spondylitis, where spinal stiffness can become severe during prolonged cold periods.
The state’s location in “tornado alley” means frequent severe weather systems with dramatic barometric pressure changes. These pressure fluctuations, common before thunderstorms and winter storms, are associated with increased “pain events” in people with autoimmune conditions. Many Indiana residents report they can predict incoming storms through increased joint pain and stiffness.
Indianapolis area residents may experience additional challenges due to urban air quality issues. The Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson area has recorded some of the country’s highest Air Quality Index median levels, with PM2.5 concentrations sometimes reaching 6.3 times the World Health Organization guidelines. Air pollution causes lung irritation and systemic inflammation that can worsen rheumatology symptoms.
How common is a RA, AS or PsA diagnosis for people in Indiana?
Indiana’s population of approximately 6.8 million creates a substantial community of residents living with autoimmune rheumatology conditions. Based on national rheumatoid arthritis prevalence data showing 29-50 per 1,000 population depending on gender and age, Indiana likely has 200,000-340,000 residents living with rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatology conditions disproportionately affect working-age adults, making them particularly significant for Indiana’s economy, which relies heavily on manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics sectors where physical demands can be challenging for people managing joint symptoms. Understanding that you’re part of a larger Indiana community facing similar health challenges helps connect you with appropriate state and local resources, a comprehensive care clinic such as AndHealth. You are not alone, and we at AndHealth are here to help.
Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis rates in Indiana
The state’s demographics influence these rates significantly. Rural areas and populations with lower educational attainment show higher RA prevalence rates, which correlates with certain Indiana regions facing economic transitions from manufacturing and agricultural changes. Additionally, Indiana’s significant African American population in cities like Indianapolis and Gary face higher rheumatoid arthritis prevalence rates compared to other racial groups.
Ankylosing spondylitis diagnosis rates in Indiana
For ankylosing spondylitis, with national prevalence around 0.10%, Indiana likely has approximately 6,800 residents living with this condition. Given that AS typically affects younger adults and often begins before age 30, this represents a significant population during peak working and family-building years, particularly relevant for Indiana’s college towns and young professional communities.
Psoriatic arthritis diagnosis rates in Indiana
Psoriatic arthritis affects an estimated 16,000-17,000 Indiana residents based on national prevalence rates around 0.24%. With up to 30% of people with psoriasis developing psoriatic arthritis, Indiana’s dermatology networks play crucial roles in early identification and appropriate rheumatology referrals. AndHealth’s collaborative care offers the opportunity for people with PsA to have both a dermatologist and a rheumatologist on their care team, who will collaborate together to ensure all symptoms and whole person health are factored into a personalized care plan.
Unique geographic factors for RA, AS, PsA in Indiana
Indiana’s geographic position and industrial history create specific environmental considerations for rheumatology conditions. Air pollution, particularly particle pollution (PM2.5), causes inflammation that can trigger or worsen symptoms, and Indiana faces unique air quality challenges due to its industrial legacy and position in major transportation corridors.
Air quality
Recent monitoring shows Indiana cities, particularly the Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson area, experiencing elevated air pollution levels. Indianapolis has recorded Air Quality Index median levels ranking among the highest nationally, with PM2.5 concentrations sometimes reaching dangerous levels. These fine particles increase systemic inflammation, potentially triggering or worsening RA, AS, and PsA symptoms, especially in areas near major highways and industrial zones.
Indiana’s position in the Midwest agricultural belt creates seasonal exposure patterns that affect rheumatology symptoms. Spring and summer bring increased pollen from agricultural activities, corn and soybean harvesting creates particulate matter, and pesticide applications can contribute to environmental triggers. These agricultural pollutants may influence inflammation levels in people with autoimmune rheumatology conditions.
The state’s extensive highway system—including major Interstate corridors like I-64, I-65, I-69, I-70, and I-74—creates traffic pollution exposure, particularly in urban areas. Living or working near these busy transportation routes may increase health risks for people with autoimmune conditions due to increased particle pollution exposure.
Clean air and water
Indiana’s water quality varies significantly across the state. While most areas have excellent municipal water treatment, some regions face challenges from agricultural runoff containing nitrates and pesticides, industrial legacy contamination, and aging infrastructure in older cities. Environmental pollutants can increase inflammation in people with autoimmune conditions, making awareness of local water quality important for symptom management.
However, Indiana offers environmental advantages through its extensive state park system and agricultural open spaces that provide cleaner air opportunities. Parks like Brown County State Park, Turkey Run, and the Indiana Dunes offer respite from urban pollution and provide ideal environments for low-impact exercise that helps manage autoimmune symptoms.
Climate impacts are becoming more noticeable in Indiana, with more frequent extreme weather events, extended heat periods, and irregular precipitation patterns that can affect symptom management and medication storage requirements.
Get educated: health fairs or health events in Indiana
Indiana hosts comprehensive health events that provide valuable opportunities for rheumatology condition education, screening, and community building.
Community outreach events
The Indiana Health Fair, held in July each year at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, offers free health screenings, education, and resources specifically focused on preventing and managing chronic conditions including autoimmune arthritis.
The annual Walk to Cure Arthritis in Indianapolis raises money to advance arthritis treatments and find a cure, bringing together hundreds of Hoosiers affected by rheumatic conditions each year. The event typically takes place at Conner Prairie, providing a beautiful natural setting for community building and advocacy, with activities including animal encounters and educational booths.
Hoosier health initiatives include the Indiana Black & Minority Health Fair, which addresses health disparities and provides targeted resources for communities disproportionately affected by rheumatology conditions. This event recognizes that certain populations face higher RA prevalence rates and need specialized outreach and support.
Throughout Indiana, county health departments organize health fairs that often include arthritis education and rheumatology screening components. These local events provide crucial access points for rural residents who might not otherwise have convenient access to rheumatology information and resources.
Health & wellness events in Indiana
Major health systems like IU Health, Ascension St. Vincent, and Franciscan Health regularly host community health events, wellness seminars, and educational sessions that include arthritis and autoimmune condition information. These events often feature local rheumatologists and provide opportunities to learn about new treatments and management strategies.
Professional conferences and continuing education events for healthcare providers indirectly benefit patients by improving care standards and treatment awareness among Indiana’s healthcare community. The Indiana University School of Medicine’s rheumatology programs contribute to ongoing education and research initiatives that benefit patients statewide.
Get support: RA, AS, PsA chronic condition community groups & patient groups in Indiana
AndHealth’s presence in Indiana through Dr. Gregory Bell and multiple clinic locations (Anderson, Noblesville, Greenfield, and Indianapolis area) creates natural opportunities for patient connections and peer support, with virtual and in-person care options accommodating Indiana’s geographic diversity.
Local YMCA facilities, community centers, and hospital wellness programs throughout Indiana host arthritis-friendly exercise programs, chronic disease self-management workshops, and support groups that create informal peer networks alongside fitness benefits. These programs are particularly valuable in smaller Indiana communities where formal medical resources may be limited.
In-person community groups
The Arthritis Foundation maintains active Indiana operations, providing advocacy, resources, and community connections for people with arthritis and related conditions. Their efforts focus on breaking down barriers to care, advancing research, and providing life-changing resources for Indiana families affected by autoimmune conditions.
IU Health’s extensive network throughout Indiana provides rheumatology care and support group facilitation across multiple locations, making geographic access easier for residents throughout the state. Their collaboration with Indiana University School of Medicine brings research opportunities and cutting-edge treatment awareness to patient support efforts.
Major health systems including Ascension St. Vincent and Franciscan Health coordinate support groups and educational seminars at various locations throughout Indiana, providing both medical care and peer support opportunities for autoimmune conditions.
Online community groups
Online chronic condition, rheumatology, and arthritis communities specific to Indiana residents include Facebook groups like “Indiana Arthritis Support,” “Hoosier Chronic Illness Warriors,” and condition-specific groups for RA, AS, and PsA that share Indiana-specific resources, weather-related symptom discussions, and local provider recommendations.
FAQs about Indiana rheumatology
insurance & payment
Yes! AndHealth proudly accepts Indiana Medicaid and provides comprehensive rheumatology care with no copays for any member of your care team—including your rheumatologist, clinical pharmacist, coordinating provider, health coach, and patient navigator. This means you get complete autoimmune care without financial barriers.
Indiana Medicaid covers all essential autoimmune care including specialist visits, lab work, imaging (X-rays, MRIs), prescription medications including biologics, and additional services like nutrition programs and sleep tracking—all provided at no cost to you through AndHealth.
No! With AndHealth and Indiana Medicaid, you have zero copays for appointments with your entire care team. This includes your rheumatologist, clinical pharmacist, health coach, and patient navigator, ensuring cost never prevents you from getting the care you need.
AndHealth’s Care Navigators work with uninsured patients to find rheumatology care on a sliding fee scale and help identify assistance programs for housing, transportation, groceries, and utilities. We believe everyone deserves access to world-class healthcare regardless of insurance status.
Your AndHealth clinical pharmacist helps ensure you have the lowest medication costs through patient assistance programs, copay support, and insurance optimization. We coordinate with drug manufacturers and assistance programs to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses for biologics and other specialized medications.
AndHealth is in-network and accepts Medicaid, Medicare, TRICARE and most commercial health plans in Ohio and Indiana.
Appointment access & scheduling
AndHealth typically offers appointments within 1-2 weeks with no referral needed. We understand that autoimmune rheumatology conditions can’t wait for long specialist queues, so we prioritize timely access to care in Indiana.
No referral required! You can contact AndHealth directly to schedule your appointment. This eliminates delays and barriers that often prevent people from getting timely rheumatology care.
While same-day appointments depend on availability, AndHealth provides anytime messaging with your care team between visits. During flares, you can text your provider team immediately for guidance, medication adjustments, or urgent care coordination if needed.
For severe flares, contact your AndHealth care team through anytime messaging first. If you need immediate medical attention, your nearest emergency department is available 24/7. Always inform them you’re an AndHealth patient so they can coordinate with your care team.
Telehealth & virtual care
Yes! AndHealth provides both in-person and virtual appointments, perfect for Indiana residents who may face transportation challenges or prefer the convenience of telehealth. Virtual visits include comprehensive assessments using on-camera reviews and coordination with local lab work and imaging.
Absolutely. Your AndHealth rheumatologist can prescribe and adjust medications during virtual visits. Your clinical pharmacist coordinates prescription delivery and provides injection training via telehealth when needed, ensuring treatment continuity regardless of weather or transportation issues.
Virtual visits are 45-minute comprehensive appointments where your rheumatologist reviews symptoms, assesses joint function through guided movements, discusses lab results, and adjusts treatment plans. A clinical pharmacist may join to discuss medications, and the entire care team coordinates your ongoing management.
Provider credentials & expertise
Yes, all AndHealth rheumatologists are board-certified specialists with extensive training in autoimmune rheumatology conditions. They bring decades of experience to you as a patient in Indiana, ensuring you receive high quality care throughout your relationship with any of your AndHealth providers.
AndHealth provides a complete 5-person care team (rheumatologist, clinical pharmacist, coordinating provider, health coach, and patient navigator) working together for your chronic condition rheumatology care. This comprehensive approach, combined with telehealth options and no referral requirements, brings specialized care directly to Indiana.
Sources
1. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis – StatPearls – NCBI
2. The Epidemiology of Psoriatic Arthritis over 5 Decades – PMC
3. Indiana Air Quality Report Card – American Lung Association
4. Experts say Indy’s poor air quality contributes to health issues – WRTV
5. Indiana Health Fair – State of Indiana
6. Arthritis Foundation – Indiana
Rheumatology care near you
Northern Indiana
Elkhart
Fort Wayne
Gary
Hammond
Portage
South Bend
Southern Indiana
Bloomington
Columbus
Evansville
Jefferson
New Albany