RhAPPcast

Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers (RhAPP)
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Medicine

This is the official podcast of Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers (RhAPP), a non-profit 501c3 organization dedicated to developing educational programs, providing professional advancement services, and assembling resources for—and guided by—advanced practice providers (APPs).    Through our peer-to-peer network, we seek to support the integral role APPs play in the rheumatology healthcare community by providing the most relevant and timely information and communication for the treatment of their patients with rheumatic diseases. 

  1. 2d ago

    FAQ: TYK2/STAT Signaling: The Immunologic Rationale for TYK2 Therapy in SLE & Sjögren’s Disease

    In this educational FAQ video, Iris Zink, NP, a rheumatology nurse practitioner, provides a comprehensive overview of the TYK2/STAT signaling pathway and its immunologic role in autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren’s disease. Drawing from clinical experience and real-world insights, Iris explains how dysregulated cytokine signaling—particularly involving type 1 interferon, interleukin-12 (IL-12), and interleukin-23 (IL-23)—drives chronic inflammation, autoantibody production, and organ damage in these complex conditions. The video explores how TYK2, a member of the Janus kinase (JAK) family, plays a central role in mediating immune responses by transmitting intracellular signals from pro-inflammatory cytokines. Unlike other JAK kinases, TYK2 is more selectively involved in immune pathways, making it an attractive therapeutic target. Iris breaks down how over activation of TYK2 contributes to the interferon-driven inflammatory cycle seen in both lupus and Sjögren’s disease, leading to B-cell hyperactivity, increased BAFF production, and a higher risk of complications such as lupus nephritis and lymphoma. Using a relatable analogy, the discussion simplifies complex immunology by comparing dysregulated B-cell activity to a “bubble machine stuck on,” illustrating how unchecked immune signaling leads to abnormal cell proliferation and autoimmunity. The video also highlights how TYK2 inhibition may help restore immune balance by reducing cytokine production, limiting autoreactive B-cell activation, and potentially decreasing long-term organ damage. Watch this video to gain a deeper understanding of the TYK2 pathway, the interferon-BAFF axis, and why TYK2-directed therapies represent a promising, targeted approach for managing SLE and Sjögren’s disease. For more rheumatology education, visit the RhAPP Content Rheum, RhAPP ACE app, or follow RhAPP on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.

    11 min

  2. 4d ago

    RhAPPcast: From Prescription to Possession: Understanding Medicare Access & Cap and Smooth

    In this episode of RhAPPcast, the official podcast of the Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers, host Amanda Mixon, PA-C, is joined by rheumatology experts Heather Finlayson, PA-C, and Stacey Johnson, NP, to discuss one of the most challenging aspects of rheumatology care: ensuring patient access to advanced therapies. This conversation explores the complexities of Medicare formularies, prior authorizations, step edits, tier placement, and evolving affordability programs that support patients receiving specialty medications. Listeners will gain practical insights into how Medicare Part B and Part D coverage impacts rheumatology prescribing, including formulary restrictions, preferred therapies, and the financial barriers patients often face when accessing biologics and biosimilars. The discussion also highlights programs such as the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P), CAP, and cost-smoothing initiatives that help reduce out-of-pocket costs and improve treatment access for Medicare beneficiaries. The panel also shares practical strategies for navigating access challenges through patient education, strong documentation, communication with clinic teams and biologics coordinators, and proactive advocacy to help patients stay on therapy. Ideal for rheumatology providers, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, and clinic teams, this episode delivers actionable guidance to improve patient access, reduce treatment delays, and support long-term medication adherence in rheumatology practice. For more expert-led rheumatology education, visit the RhAPP Content Rheum and RhAPP ACE app, and subscribe to RhAPPcast for future episodes.

    24 min

  3. May 21

    FAQ: What Is Minimal Disease Activity in PsA and How Does Deucravacitinib Perform at 52 Weeks?

    In this FAQ video, Christy Vath, PA-C of Seattle Rheumatology Associates, breaks down the concept of minimal disease activity (MDA) in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and explores how deucravacitinib performs in achieving this important treatment target at 52 weeks. With the evolution of targeted biologic therapies since the late 1990s, treatment goals in PsA have shifted toward objective, measurable outcomes like MDA—an established composite endpoint requiring patients to meet 5 of 7 clinical criteria, including low joint counts, reduced skin involvement, improved patient-reported outcomes, and minimal enthesitis. This educational discussion reviews the development and validation of MDA as a treat-to-target strategy in PsA, highlighting its clinical significance in improving disease control and patient quality of life. Christy also dives into the mechanism of action of deucravacitinib, a selective TYK2 inhibitor that targets key inflammatory pathways such as IL-23 and type 1 interferon, central to PsA pathogenesis. Data from the POETYK PsA-1 and PsA-2 phase 3 trials are discussed, showing that deucravacitinib demonstrated superior MDA response rates compared to placebo at week 16, with continued improvement through week 24 and sustained responses at week 52, reaching nearly 34%. Watch now to better understand MDA in PsA, the role of TYK2 inhibition, and how evolving therapies are helping clinicians achieve meaningful, long-term outcomes for patients. For more rheumatology content, visit the RhAPP Content Rheum or the RhAPP ACE app.

    5 min

  4. May 19

    FAQ: What Guideline Recommendations Exist Pertaining to Managing obesity in Patients With PsA?

    In this FAQ video, Shannon Ghizzoni, PA-C, of Columbus Arthritis Center reviews the latest guidance on managing obesity in patients with psoriatic arthritis. Referencing the 2018 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and National Psoriasis Foundation recommendations, she explains why weight loss is conditionally recommended for overweight and obese patients with psoriatic arthritis and how adiposity contributes to systemic inflammation and increased disease activity. This discussion explores evidence behind very low-calorie and hypocaloric diets, the role of the Mediterranean diet in reducing inflammation and cardiovascular risk, and emerging data on gluten-free diets, sugar reduction, and GLP-1 therapies. Designed for rheumatology clinicians and advanced practice providers, this video highlights practical, individualized strategies to support weight management and improve outcomes in psoriatic arthritis.

    3 min

  5. May 14

    RhAPPcast: Identification and Diagnosis of XLH: A Story of Family History

    In this episode of RhAPPcast, the official podcast of Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers, host Amanda Mixon and Bonnie Smeryage, NP, explore the real-world impact of X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) through a powerful patient perspective. Featuring Shannon Sharp, a patient ambassador with Kyowa Kirin, this discussion dives into the genetic basis, diagnostic challenges, and lifelong burden of XLH—a rare, chronic metabolic bone disorder characterized by renal phosphate wasting. Learn how XLH symptoms such as bone pain, muscle weakness, fractures, and joint stiffness can mimic common rheumatologic conditions, often leading to misdiagnosis. This episode highlights the critical role of family history, genetic testing, and fasting serum phosphorus in identifying XLH, while also emphasizing the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care when discussing sensitive topics like family planning. Gain valuable clinical insights into disease progression, surgical considerations, and quality-of-life challenges, along with practical strategies to improve diagnosis and management. Whether you're a rheumatology provider, advanced practice provider (APP), or healthcare professional, this episode offers essential education on recognizing and supporting patients with XLH.

    26 min

  6. May 12

    Medication Review: What Is the Safety Profile of Tirzepatide?

    Explore the safety profile of tirzepatide in this clinician-focused medication review led by Bharati Bhardwaja, PharmD, a rheumatology clinical pharmacist at Kaiser Permanente Colorado. This video provides a comprehensive overview of common adverse effects associated with tirzepatide, including gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite, as well as other reactions like injection site reactions, fatigue, and hair loss. The discussion also highlights important drug interaction considerations, including the need to adjust doses of insulin or sulfonylureas to reduce hypoglycemia risk, and the impact of delayed gastric emptying on the absorption of medications with narrow therapeutic windows, such as warfarin. Special attention is given to potential considerations with mycophenolate mofetil and oral hormonal contraceptives, along with guidance on monitoring and alternative strategies. Additionally, this review covers key safety considerations for pregnancy and lactation, emphasizing the importance of risk-benefit discussions and appropriate discontinuation when necessary. Designed for healthcare professionals managing patients with metabolic and rheumatologic conditions, this video delivers practical insights to support safe prescribing, minimize adverse effects, and optimize patient outcomes with tirzepatide therapy. Explore more expert-led education and medication reviews on the Content Rheum and stay up to date with the latest clinical insights in rheumatologic care.

    3 min

  7. May 7

    Medication Review: Tirzepatide Starting Dose & Titration for Optimal Outcomes

    Learn the recommended starting dose and titration strategy for tirzepatide in this medication review featuring Jennifer Mylod, DNP, from Arizona Arthritis & Rheumatology Associates in Phoenix, Arizona. This video provides a practical, clinician-focused overview of how to initiate tirzepatide at 2.5 mg once weekly to improve gastrointestinal tolerability and patient adherence, followed by a structured dose escalation approach. Viewers will gain insight into the standard titration schedule—advancing in 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks up to a maximum of 15 mg—as well as how to individualize treatment based on patient response and side effect profile. The discussion highlights common adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, along with strategies to manage these symptoms, including slower titration, dose adjustments, and patient counseling on diet, hydration, and meal size. This review also explores key clinical outcomes associated with tirzepatide, including glycemic control, weight reduction, and appetite regulation, while emphasizing that not all patients require maximum dosing to achieve meaningful benefits. Special considerations for older adults, patients with gastrointestinal sensitivity, renal impairment, or those on concomitant insulin or sulfonylureas are also addressed to help clinicians minimize risk and optimize safety. Whether you're managing patients with type 2 diabetes or obesity, this video delivers actionable guidance on how to personalize tirzepatide therapy, improve tolerability, and support long-term treatment success. Explore more expert-led education and medication reviews on Content Rheum and stay up to date with the latest clinical insights in metabolic and rheumatologic care.

    3 min

  8. May 5

    Journal Club Review: SOLSTICE Publication

    Stay up to date with the latest advancements in psoriatic arthritis treatment in this journal club review featuring Jessica Farrell, PharmD, from Albany Medical Center. This video explores a Phase 3 SOLSTICE clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of guselkumab in patients with active psoriatic arthritis who had an inadequate response to a prior TNF inhibitor. The discussion highlights key clinical outcomes, including ACR20, ACR50, and ACR70 response rates, minimal disease activity, and psoriasis improvement, demonstrating that guselkumab significantly outperformed placebo across multiple endpoints. Importantly, the review examines dosing strategies, comparing every-4-week versus every-8-week regimens, and explains why increased dosing frequency did not lead to superior outcomes—offering valuable insights into pharmacokinetics and receptor saturation in IL-23 inhibition. Designed for healthcare professionals managing complex psoriatic arthritis cases, this video provides practical, evidence-based guidance on biologic sequencing after TNF failure, real-world applicability of clinical trial data, and how to optimize treatment strategies for improved patient outcomes. For more expert-led education, visit the Content Rheum and stay up to date with the latest clinical insights in rheumatologic care.

    14 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

This is the official podcast of Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers (RhAPP), a non-profit 501c3 organization dedicated to developing educational programs, providing professional advancement services, and assembling resources for—and guided by—advanced practice providers (APPs).    Through our peer-to-peer network, we seek to support the integral role APPs play in the rheumatology healthcare community by providing the most relevant and timely information and communication for the treatment of their patients with rheumatic diseases. 

Information

  • Creator
    Rheumatology Advanced Practice Providers (RhAPP)
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    187
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 RhAPPcast
  • Show Website
    RhAPPcast

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