Table 1.

Unmet needs in PsA identification: addressing the problem^*

Unmet needs in PsA identification

PsA is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed

Physicians and patients lack awareness of PsA

Appropriate screening tools for PsA are lacking

Criteria are unclear regarding rheumatologist referrals and/or treatment

Data are lacking regarding identifying at-risk and high-risk PsA patients and the value of intervention

Patients with PsA fall in a gap between psoriasis and arthritis patient groups

Addressing the problem

Develop simple, effective screening tools, diagnostic tests, and clinical findings

Define criteria for rheumatologist referral, including development and validation as well as implementation to ensure appropriate use

Educate health care providers (i.e., dermatologists and PCPs) on the impact of PsA (it is not a benign arthritis), and clinical targets that trigger rheumatologist referral

Establish multidisciplinary care (i.e., collaboration between dermatologists and rheumatologists)

Educate psoriasis patients to raise awareness of PsA; specialized nurse practitioners can educate patients and provide complementary support

Improve collaboration and awareness through patient organizations who willingly accept responsibility for PsA patients

^*PsA = psoriatic arthritis; PCPs = primary care physicians.