Meet our Infusion Team!

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we understand that Infusions are perhaps one of the most misunderstood of technological advances in medical science. Dr. Hulon Crayton did not create this technology, but was one of the physicians in the area who was forward thinking enough to use the technology in order to benefit his patients. And, we’ve mastered the process!

The Arthritis & Infusion Center's Infusion Team:
(L-R: Trinh Nguyen, LPN; Rebekah Williams, LPN; Jennifer Trapp, LPN)

What is Infusion Therapy?  This special service is provided to people who need to receive nutritional or other medicines, which cannot be treated with drugs by mouth. The infusion of drugs, or nutrients, directly into the body, through veins, muscles, or under the skin, makes for a more exacting and effective treatment. Fluid flows from a sterile bag through plastic tubing directly into the patient’s bloodstream.

Other physicians trust us for their therapy needs:  The Arthritis & Infusion Center infuses for other physicians. Many neurologists, primary-care physicians, gastroenterologists, and dermatologists ask us to infuse medications to their patients. (However, we do not infuse chemotherapy drugs.)

Our infusion services are done under Dr. Crayton’s direction and provided by a supervising nurse in a comfortable, welcoming suite. All you need to bring to an infusion is a smile and positive attitude. However, you can do a variety of activities while you are receiving an infusion, so call us to receive more complete information.

The most important fact to remember about Infusion Therapy is:
We teach patients how to care for themselves during therapy so they can be

active participants in their own health care.

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.”

March is National Nutrition Month

From New York City (where you can’t get an oversized soda any longer) to school lunch rooms, nutrition is being discussed more than any other time in recent history. And because nutrition plays an important part in better health for those with arthritis and other connective-tissue disorders, The Arthritis & Infusion Center would like for you to consider adding fiber (vegetables and fruits), as well as healthy fats to your diet. (For a complete list of acceptable foods, go to the federal government’s “Dietary Guidelines for Americans”.) Of course, it should go without saying that you should also drink plenty of fluids, but watch your intake of caffeine and alcohol.


But why is good nutrition so important? If you stick to real food, as opposed to processed meals, it literally fuels your body. Reducing the quantity of food in favor of quality meals is critical. Eating properly will help reduce cholesterol levels, reduce your risk of colon cancer, and help you remain “regular”, especially if you add yogurt with live cultures.  If you eat a lot of fiber, you’ll find it easier to lose weight, because your appetite will be satiated; and, the less weight you put on your joints, the better!

For people who suffer from arthritis, Omega-3 fats have an anti-inflammatory effect, and Calcium is also recommended to strengthen your bones in order to prevent breakage.

Don’t forget that Dr. Crayton always advises his patients: “Pain is not normal!” So, if you are maintaining good dietary habits, but pain persists, contact us to get to the root of your discomfort. Don’t let a poor diet complicate your health issues! The better you eat … the better you’ll feel!

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!

You don’t need a referral to see Dr. Crayton!

At The Arthritis & Infusion Center, we prefer that our patients discuss their symptoms with their primary care physician and then ask for a referral to Dr. Hulon Crayton. However, if you have not received satisfactory answers to your questions, you may self-refer to our medical center.

Dr. Crayton is the most experienced, Board Certified Rheumatologist in the region, who also has his Master’s in Hospital Administration. Because of these dual certifications, he is uniquely qualified to run his medical practice as well as the adjoining Infusion Center.

Our medical practice prides itself in staying current on all the latest treatment options available for dealing with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis, Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Gout as well as all connective-tissue diseases.  Never before have there been as many options for the treatment of these conditions, which include not only prescription alternatives, but the most current medical technology as well.

“I always tell my patients that pain is not normal! Early, and aggressive, treatment is necessary within the first year of diagnosis. If left untreated, Rheumatoid Arthritis can decrease a person’s life by 10 to 15 years,” said Dr. Crayton. Don’t wait … you can refer yourself to our medical practice; however, be sure you have checked with your insurance provider, before your visit, to make certain our practice is within your network of care. We can 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.