Four Ways to Research Your Physician’s Credentials

Before you choose a physician, it is very important to thoroughly research their credentials.  For instance, one piece of vital information is where the doctor went to medical school, since not all medical schools are “created equal”.

1)  Check their website or ask for a CV -- The first obvious place to look would be on the particular doctor’s website, but not every physician includes all vital information, especially if the data isn’t favorable. Therefore, it is not unreasonable for you to ask for their CV. A curriculum vitae (CV) gives an overview of a person's experience and other qualifications, and in this case, should list every school the physician attended.

2)  Refer to Physician Rating Sites -- Directories like HealthGrades, RateMDs, UCompareHealthCare, Wellness, and Vitals can be very helpful.  However, don’t rely on online sources, because the information can be riddled with errors, and “reviews” may not be quite legitimate.  Because not all sites are 100% accurate, read the reviews with an open mind, and use these sites to compile your research.

3)  “Interview” the Physician – You can actually ask for a consult in order to determine whether or not this is a doctor you feel comfortable with and trust.  Take the materials you’ve collected online to address with the physician during the interview.

4)  Google is good!  Google the name of the school(s) where your physician attended to learn where it is located and what kind of reputation it has.

Dr. Hulon Crayton has been practicing Rheumatology since 1990, which makes him the most experienced Rheumatologist in this region. In addition, he is Board Certified in Rheumatology, has maintained his licenses in good standing with all state licensing boards, and also completed his Master’s Degree in Hospital Administration, which makes him specially qualified to run The Arthritis & Infusion Center.

Dr. Crayton’s credentials are as follows:

EDUCATION
 
1974-1978 B.S., Lincoln University, Jefferson City, MO.-Biology
1979-1983 M.S., University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO.-Hospital Administration
1981-1985 M.D., University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI.
 
POSTGRADUATE EDUCATION

1985-1986 Internship in Internal Medicine
      University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI.
1986-1987 Residency in Internal Medicine
      University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI.
1987-1988 Residency in Internal Medicine
      Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL.
1988-1990 Fellowship in Rheumatology
      University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, WI.

CERTIFICATIONS

• Diplomat, American Board of Internal Medicine, 9/89.
• Diplomat, American Board of Rheumatology, 11/90.
• Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support

LICENSURE

• Florida No. ME75227

MILITARY SERVICE

• 1978-1981, U.S. Army, 1LT, Chemical Corps, Ft. Carson, CO
• 1981-1985, U.S. Army Reserve, 1LT, Ft. McCoy, WI.
• 1985-1993, U.S. Army Reserve, CPT, Medical Corps

A Rheumatologist is an internist who received further training in the diagnosis/detection and treatment of arthritis and other musculoskeletal diseases.  Also called “rheumatic” diseases, these conditions affect the joints, muscles, and bones.  Rheumatologists treat arthritis, certain autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain, and osteoporosis.  There are more than 150 rheumatic conditions, to include (but not limited to): Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, and tendinitis.

Dr. Crayton is a much sought-after consultant who advises other doctors about particular diagnoses and treatment plans. In other cases, Dr. Crayton acts as a manager of infusions needed by the patients of other physicians.

Fibromyalgia is REAL! Four ways to manage this disease

Within the medical field, not all physicians believe in the condition referred to as Fibromyalgia, but at The Arthritis & Infusion Center, when a patient tells Dr. Hulon Crayton that they hurt, he believes them! Unfortunately, there is no definitive way to diagnose Fibromyalgia, because there are no lab tests or x-rays that can determine this insipid disease. Therefore, Dr. Crayton does a thorough history of the patient in combination with a good physical. After reviewing the data, he listens to what the patient has to say about their symptoms and then asks them the right questions to finalize the most accurate assessment.

What IS Fibromyalgia? According to many medical experts, Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes muscle pain and body stiffness, which may be combined with feeling tired all the time. Another interesting fact is that this condition is most common in women under the age of 50. Dr. Crayton will examine your joints and muscles trying to determine tender points that are linked with this health condition. (It is not unusual for a patient to have between 11 and 18 tender areas within their body.) 

Symptoms include:

• A burning, or throbbing pain, in many parts of the body, which can vary during the day 
• Stiffness, or aching, all over the body
• Constant fatigue, even after a good night’s sleep, with a lack of energy 
• Tension or migraine headaches 
• Bowel issues

How can you manage this disease? According to The Arthritis Foundation,

1. Take tests to check your iron levels, vitamin D deficiency, and thyroid problems.

2. Follow your doctor’s orders! Depending on the test results, Dr. Crayton may suggest getting more exercise or starting certain supplements. What is most important is to follow the recommended course of action, but communicate with Dr. Crayton if the symptoms worsen or if you have a reaction to any part of the treatment.

3. Dr. Crayton often recommends that patients take over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort. However, before he prescribes any medications, he needs to know ALL

medications you are currently taking to ensure there are no drug interactions.

4. If the condition is not diagnosed and treated early, symptoms can go on indefinitely, or they may disappear for months and then recur.

While the symptoms of Fibromyalgia may never totally go away, we try to work on the triggers within the patient’s environment to relieve some of their anxiety and pain. If you feel you may be a candidate for a consult regarding this “stealth disease”, we’d like to encourage you to call our office so that Fibromyalgia won’t be able to steal any more of your life. Remember what Dr. Crayton tells all his patients: “Pain is not normal. Let us help.”

Meet our Team of Office Assistants

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we understand that patients expect a good experience in all areas of their visit to Dr. Hulon Crayton’s practice. To ensure that our clinical and administrative tasks are completed with accuracy and exemplary service, we’ve put together a team of outstanding Office Assistants. These individuals make it their daily mission to support our other team members in assuring that our medical practice runs efficiently and effectively.

 The Arthritis &  Infusion Center Office Assistants

(L-R:  Megan Gibbs, Carla Lancaster, Corinna Crayton, and Crystal Luterman)

Megan Gibbs’ major responsibility is Insurance Verification and Financial Assistance, when needed, for Infusion patients.

Carla Lancaster’s major responsibilities are answering phones, scheduling new and follow-up patients for appointments, as well as scheduling patients Dr. Crayton refers to outside specialists.

Corinna Crayton provides part-time backup in several areas of the medical practice.

Crystal Luterman is the smiling face patients see when they first enter the practice. As receptionist, Crystal greets and gets patients checked in, answers the phone, and schedules appointments as backup to Carla Lancaster.

Although everyone has their individual, assigned tasks, providing excellent customer service is everyone’s foremost priority! 

Dr. Crayton, the area’s most tenured Rheumatologist, reminds his patients that “Pain is not normal. We can help!” No referral is necessary to see Dr. Crayton, but be certain to check with your insurance provider prior to contacting the office to make sure of your coverage.  Or, ask your Primary Care physician to refer you to our medical practice.
 

Meet our Team – Nurse Hillary Chaffer

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we take great pride in building a team of dedicated professionals. Hillary Chaffer is one such staff member, who has her LPN license and is continuing her nursing education at Gulf Coast State College.

When interviewed, Hillary shared her thoughts on the importance of the services provided by Dr. Hulon Crayton: “The majority of people we see every day are in pain. I enjoy watching the process of prevention, holding off the deterioration of their body and joints. It is so rewarding to watch patients become absolutely transformed from walking stooped over to not even requiring surgery for their disability,” said Ms. Chaffer. “I also love helping people learn about their ailments, from providing the availability of networking groups, which help in coping with their conditions, to providing tangible things they can do, with diet and exercise, to help offset the ravages of their disease.”

 Hillary Chaffer, LPN

 
Ms. Chaffer’s career track took her from nursing home care, where she could only dispense medications, to working for Dr. Crayton, where she gets a lot more satisfaction by taking an active role in the oversight and care of people suffering from arthritis and other Rheumatologic or connective-tissue diseases.

When asked to answer the question – Who is Hillary? She thought a moment before responding – “I can remember as a young child, we had to write adjectives that spelled out our names, and showed who we were as a person.  For ‘H’, I wrote ‘hilarious’; ‘I’ was for ‘inventive’; and for the first ‘L’, I wrote ‘laughing’, but I don’t remember the rest. I’d say I’m kind of like an onion on ‘Shrek’, where you peel back numerous layers.” Then, she broke out in even more laughter at comparing herself to “Shrek”.

But life isn’t always light hearted for Ms. Chaffer. She often provides a type of personal hospice service to animals who have been turned over to shelters due to their serious illnesses, and owners not able to pay for the medicines and treatment. Hillary does get a lot of joy from her marriage and her avocation as a Certified Feline Groomer.

Staff often refers to Hillary’s “upbeat and caring” personality, so important in a team environment, and Dr. Crayton has said he cannot imagine a person better suited to help care for his patients.  Hillary, and Dr. Crayton, would like to remind you:  “Pain is not normal. We can help.”  Contact the practice to see what makes their entire team so very special. 

Clear Channel & Medical Minutes

This week, Dr. Hulon Crayton, of The Arthritis & Infusion Center, enjoyed production with Logan Kelly, on-air talent with Clear Channel Radio, during the taping of “Medical Minutes.” Beginning in April, be sure to tune in to Sunny 98.5 to hear interesting segments on Dr. Crayton, his Rheumatology practice, and specifics on the newest technologies and treatments for arthritis and other connective-tissue disorders. Dr. Crayton reminds everyone that pain is not normal, and he – along with his exceptional staff can help. Contact them to answer any of your questions about pain you may be experiencing. At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, they test everything but your patience!©

“Meet our team: MARY KATHARINE GERLECZ”

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we make it a point to hire the most experienced staff possible.  Because ultrasound services are such an important part of our practice, we are very pleased to introduce you to Mary Katharine Gerlecz. Mary completed her education in December, 2011 with her AAS in Diagnostic Medical Sonography; and, it’s her additional credentials that make her such a special team member. She is a:

•    Registered Vascular Technician through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS-RVT)
•    Registered Technician through the American Registry of Radiological Technologist (ARRT) (Sonography)

“We hire for attitude first,” said Dr. Hulon Crayton, Medical Director and owner of The Arthritis & Infusion Center. “Getting the most qualified employee is high on our list of priorities, but our patients have found Mary to be not only good at what she does, but she is a pleasure to deal with and makes everyone feel comfortable during their tests.” 

Remember:  At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, “We test everything but your patience.”© And, providing accurate ultrasounds is just one test that sets us apart.”

We Test Everything but Your Patience! ©

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, our lab offers our rheumatology patients an early and accurate diagnosis through our onsite laboratory. Headed by Dr. Hulon Crayton, who brings specialized expertise to the analysis of tests administered in the lab, he then recommends, analyzes, and administers test results. Our testing methods are particularly important in the screening and diagnosis of rheumatic disease, as well as measuring your response to the various therapies available.

Our patients have benefited from our advanced and prompt research utilizing the most advanced diagnostic tests and treatment methods for diseases such as fibromyalgia and lupus. Once your lab work is finalized, we carefully administer follow-up care, which can ensure a better treatment plan and greatly improve your quality of life.

“When my patients tell me they hurt, I believe them,” said Dr. Crayton. “With our in-house laboratory, the time a person has to remain in pain is greatly diminished, because we provide prompt results along with an accurate diagnosis.” Pain is not normal.  Let us help!

The Spread the Warmth Initiative Continues!

Recently, Dr. Hulon Crayton delivered a large box of blankets to the Children’s Home Society of Florida.

“We never seem to have enough blankets to go around since our kids need to stay warm, may be in transient, and must take their belongings with them. We are so very grateful to Dr. Crayton for this donation,” said Ms. Cook.

 L-R:  Dr. Hulon Crayton; Linda Williams, Development Support Specialist; 

and Felicia Robinson Cook, Director of Development)

If you would like to contribute to the Spread the Warmth 2012/13 Campaign, drop your donation by The Arthritis & Infusion Center, 2917 Highway 77.  Donations will be accepted through the month of March.  

“What you don’t know can hurt you. Arthritis is not just a joint disease.”

When Dr. Hulon Crayton speaks to the public, as well as to his patients, he provides them with vital information about Rheumatology.  Most people do not realize that Rheumatology is the diagnosis and treatment of more than 150 arthritic and connective-tissue disorders.

Fortunately, The Arthritis & Infusion Center provides a wide range of specialized services for arthritis. Did you know that, by definition, “arthritis” refers to any of more than 100 joint disorders characterized by pain, swelling, and limited motion or movement? Arthritis can be caused by inflammation or infection in a joint, by degeneration of a joint due to age, or by a disorder of which arthritis is a major symptom.

It might surprise you to learn that in the United States alone more than 31 million people of all ages suffer from various degrees of the disease.

Our practice deals with these three major categories of arthritis:

v  Osteoarthritis  
v  Rheumatoid Arthritis
v  Gout

Our medical practice prides itself in staying current on all the latest treatment options in dealing with arthritis, but we also deal with Osteoporosis, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, as well as all connective-tissue diseases. Dr. Crayton is the most experienced Rheumatologist in this area, and is the Medical Director of our Infusion Center.

Never before have there been as many options for the treatment of these conditions. Dr. Crayton always tells people:  “Pain is not normal. Let us help!” Not only are there prescription alternatives, but our practice provides the most current in medical technology as well. To view a complete list of conditions commonly treated in our office, go to www.DrCrayton.net.

REMEMBER:  What you don’t know can hurt you!  Early, and aggressive, treatment is necessary within the first year of the diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis. If left untreated, it can decrease a person’s life by 10 to 15 years, and can also cause paralysis. Don’t wait any longer!  Call The Arthritis & Infusion Center …today – 873-6748.

Dr. Crayton "speaks" to the issues of Arthritis

Recently, Dr. Hulon Crayton was asked to speak to the Rotary Club of Panama City Beach, FL.  (Erica Spivey, President is on the left). As the owner of The Arthritis & Infusion Center, Dr. Crayton educated and entertained the group on the topic: “What you don’t know can hurt you. Arthritis is not just a joint disease.” 

The topic encompassed the latest technology being used to diagnose and treat the conditions covered by a Rheumatologist, as well as the various medications that are now on the market that can halt, or in some cases, reverse the symptoms of arthritis.

What you don’t know can hurt you! If you have a club or organization you believe may benefit from Dr. Crayton, he is a knowledgeable and articulate speaker; plus, he is the most experienced Rheumatologist in our region. If you would like to book Dr. Crayton as a presenter, contact his practice manager at 873-6748.

Experience and Board Certification: A Powerful Combination

Dr. Hulon Crayton has been practicing Rheumatology since 1990, which makes him the most experienced, longest tenured, Rheumatologist in this region. In addition, he is Board Certified in Rheumatology, has maintained his licenses in good standing with all state licensing boards, and also completed his Master’s Degree in Hospital Administration, which makes him specially qualified to run The Arthritis & Infusion Center.

 A Rheumatologist is an internist who received further training in the diagnosis/detection and treatment of arthritis and other musculoskeletal diseases. Also called “rheumatic” diseases, these conditions affect the joints, muscles, and bones. Rheumatologists treat arthritis, certain autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain, and osteoporosis. There are more than 100 rheumatic conditions, to include (but not limited to): Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, and tendinitis.

  
In addition to his four (4) years of medical school and three (3) years of residency, and (2) year of fellowship training, Dr. Crayton has been practicing his specialty for almost a quarter of a century!  During that time, Dr. Crayton has compiled extensive training, and experience, in the successful treatment of his patients. He continues to evaluate his physician-patient communications by surveying patients, which guides the practice in quality improvement. Dr. Crayton has a commitment to life-long learning and frequently completes appropriate continuing-education courses.
   

Dr. Crayton is a much sought-after consultant who advises other doctors about a particular diagnosis and treatment plan. In other cases, Dr. Crayton acts as a manager of infusions needed by the patients of other physicians.

Teamwork is very important for doctor-to-patient and doctor-to-doctor relationships, and Dr. Crayton has a proven reputation of really listening to his patients in order to help them, and their families, cope with the changes rheumatic diseases may cause in their lives. 

Some rheumatic diseases are very serious and can be hard to diagnose and treat, which is why it is very important to choose a rheumatologist who has the most experience in the region for treating rheumatic disease … and that person is Dr. Hulon Crayton! No referral is necessary. Learn more about Dr. Crayton at drcrayton.net.

Planning a Healthcare Budget

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we are all too aware of the struggles many people have in paying their medical bills. And, with the most recent changes in medical reimbursements due to government regulations, it is even more important to plan ahead. But, the most significant question is: How does someone prepare for an illness, or health issues, that come as a complete surprise?

      When you are trying to budget, communicate with your  insurance agent, as well as all the physicians/clinics who service your family’s medical needs. Ask, point blank, if their rates will be increasing in the near future. You have every right to ask this critical question.  Therefore, the areas you need to include in your healthcare budget include, but are not limited to:

• Insurance premium costs: Insurance coverage can be negotiable depending on your lifestyle (i.e., non-smoker, active lifestyle, etc.) 
•  When you know what your insurance covers, but more importantly, what it doesn’t cover, make a conscientious attempt at estimating out-of-pocket costs.
•  Once you’ve come to the two estimates (above), factor into the equation your medications, visits to the dentist, and eye appointments. (Remember, your health insurance policy will outline what dental services, if any, are covered.) 
•  If you take vitamins, belong to a gym, or take advantage of specialized services like therapeutic massage, these costs need to be estimated and included in your budget as well.

“Many of our patients struggle paying their bills, and many pharmaceutical companies have programs in place to help the truly disadvantaged,” said Dr. Hulon Crayton, owner of The Arthritis & Infusion Center. “In addition, there may be other government programs that may be able to be accessed.”

People on Medicare must also understand that healthcare services, at some point, may become rationed. Their healthcare budget must allow for them, as senior citizens, to pay – out of pocket – if they want to ensure that some yearly tests (mammograms, pap smears, etc.) are covered. Otherwise, these tests will only be done every other year.

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we encourage our patients to ask us how to most effectively manage their healthcare, and we can certainly assist with the necessary data patients need in order to compile a comprehensive healthcare budget. Don’t wait another day to get started to take control of your healthcare finances.

DR. CRAYTON Continues to SPREAD Seasonal WARMTH!

For the THIRD year in a row, Dr. Hulon Crayton, Rheumatologist and owner of The Arthritis & Infusion Center, has seen the need for people to stay warm. “Cold rooms have a significant impact on people’s health,” said Dr. Crayton. One of the best ways of keeping yourself well during winter is to stay warm. Keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent colds, flu, or more serious health conditions such as pneumonia and depression. 

           

“When we became aware of the situation at the Children’s Home Society of Florida, we knew we had to take immediate action by purchasing extra blankets for the children to utilize,” said Dr. Crayton.

           

Felicia Robinson Cook, Director of Development at the Children’s Home Society of Florida was very grateful to Dr. Crayton and his team. “We never seem to have enough blankets to go around since our kids need to stay warm, may be transient, and must take their belongings with them. We are so very grateful to Dr. Crayton for this donation,” said Ms. Cook.

            

This winter, The Arthritis & Infusion Center would like to encourage Bay County residents to clean out their linen closets or purchase NEW blankets for Dr. Crayton and his staff to distribute to the Children’s Home Society of Florida. “We’d like to continue to ‘spread the warmth’ as much as possible. People who are interested in helping us with this important project can drop blankets at our medical practice any Monday through Thursday, 2917 Highway 77 in the Baldwin Plaza,” said Dr. Crayton. "Help us continue to spread the warmth during this entire winter season!" 

The Arthritis & Infusion Center will collect blankets to distribute from December 1 until March 31 at their medical practice. (Their office is closed between 12 noon and 1:30 each day.)