Connecting the dots between science, medicine and YOUR LIFE
Cut through the noise and bring clarity to your autoimmune condition.
Now Taking New Patients! 
Let’s be honest – no one wants to see me.
You don’t end up in a Rheumatologist’s office ’cause you feel great.
But with the right information, guidance, and support, you CAN feel better and learn to thrive with your autoimmune condition.
Frustrated by the incomplete or just plain wrong information common in our clinics and the internet, I’m here to set the record straight.
What do these antibody tests really mean?
Why was I given this medication?
Can diet or supplements really make a difference?
Helping you answer these questions (and more!) is what I love to do.
Learn more about why I do what I do or get right to the good stuff on the Connected Rheumatology YouTube channel!
How can I work with Connected Rheumatology?
Become a Patient
Through an innovative partnership with Paradigm Family Health, become a Dr. Ortiz patient and get truly holistic care.
With your Rheumatologist and Primary Care under one roof, experience what it’s like to have a collaborative healthcare TEAM working for you!
The Connected 2nd Opinion
A Rheumatology 2nd opinion (or 1st or 5th) like no other to get you on the right track!
Have a 60 minute 1-on-1 visit with Dr. Ortiz to review your medical journey to date, answer your questions, and discuss lifestyle changes that make a big impact on your health.
Your Appointment Home Run Handbook
Download this free guide and walk through everything you need to consider when preparing for your Rheumatology appointments.
Special editions for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus are available – with more to come!
It starts with the right information.
Retesting the ANA or Rheumatoid Factor
Blood tests like the ANA (antinuclear antibody) and rheumatoid factor (RF) are often the first steps when a doctor suspects an autoimmune condition like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. But what happens when these tests come back negative, and your symptoms persist? Or when they’re positive but don’t seem to tell the full story? Let’s break…
Can you have ANA negative lupus?
Getting an autoimmune diagnosis like lupus is a life-changing event. But what we don’t talk about enough is how life-changing the journey to that diagnosis can be. For many, it’s a rollercoaster of confusing symptoms, endless doctor visits, and—often—conflicting test results. One of the most common points of confusion? The ANA test, its results, and…