Hi. When shopping for my Rheumatologist, I first went to my insurance website to see which doctors took my insurance.  Once I found one, I called and made an appointment. I didn't like him because he didn't listen to me. So I went back to the insurance website and found my current Rheumie who is a complete GEM! She listens to me when I tell her my symptoms and what I'm dealing with every day.  She is totally awesome and I feel blessed to have found her.

RA is best dealt with by a Rheumatologist. So look for a Rheumie first off. Once you find one just get an appointment and see how you get on with the doctor.

If you find that it's going to be a long time before you can be seen, you could try going to an Orthopaedic doctor. They don't specialize in RA but they could start you on steroids at least.

Good luck and I hope things work out for you!