Osteoporosis Clinic
The Columbia Rheumatology Osteoporosis Clinic provides specialized care for patients with bone loss and metabolic bone disease, particularly when related to autoimmune conditions or glucocorticoid therapy.
Osteoporosis and glucocorticoid-induced bone loss are common complications in patients with rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory arthritis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce fracture risk and preserve long-term bone health.
Our goal is to identify patients at risk for osteoporosis early and provide individualized treatment plans to prevent fractures and improve quality of life.
We offer comprehensive evaluation and management, including:
- Osteoporosis risk assessment
- Bone mineral density testing (DEXA)
- Evaluation of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis
- Pharmacologic treatment of osteoporosis
- Long-term monitoring of bone health
- Coordination of care with Columbia rheumatologists
Our Approach
Patients with autoimmune diseases frequently face unique challenges related to bone health. Chronic inflammation, glucocorticoid therapy, reduced mobility, and other factors can significantly increase the risk of bone loss.
The Columbia Rheumatology Osteoporosis Clinic provides comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans designed to address these risk factors.
Comprehensive Risk Assessment
Evaluation of clinical risk factors, including autoimmune disease activity, glucocorticoid exposure, prior fractures, family history, and lifestyle factors.
Diagnostic Testing
Bone mineral density assessment using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and laboratory testing to identify metabolic contributors to bone loss.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Treatment plans may include calcium and vitamin D optimization, lifestyle modifications, and, when appropriate, antiresorptive or anabolic therapies.
Integrated Rheumatology Care
Because osteoporosis often occurs in the context of autoimmune disease, care is closely coordinated with the patient’s rheumatologist to ensure optimal management of both bone health and systemic disease.
Our Team
Our clinic is staffed by rheumatologists with expertise in autoimmune disease and metabolic bone disorders, working collaboratively alongside our rheumatology fellows to provide comprehensive care.
Alexandru Kimel, MD
Dr. Kimel has been actively practicing medicine since 2003. He earned his Doctorate in Medicine from the University of the State of New York after completing his medical education at New York Medical College.
Dr. Kimel remains actively involved in the American College of Rheumatology Fellows Mentoring Program and serves on committees that support trainees transitioning into clinical practice.
Dr. Kimel brings more than 20 years of expertise in osteoporosis treatment and education, specializing in the management of complex bone cases.
Yevgeniya Gartshtyeyn, MD, MS
Dr. Gartshtyeyn is a board-certified rheumatologist and internist with expertise in the management of autoimmune diseases.
Her clinical and research interests focus on systemic lupus erythematosus and myositis, with a particular emphasis on improving outcomes for patients with complex autoimmune conditions through translational research and the use of alternative treatments to steroids.
Who Should Be Seen in This Clinic?
Patients may benefit from evaluation in the Osteoporosis Clinic if they:
- Have osteoporosis or low bone density
- Are taking long-term corticosteroids
- Have autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
- Have experienced fragility fractures
- Require specialized osteoporosis therapies
- Need evaluation of secondary causes of bone loss
Diagnostic Services
Our clinic provides evaluation and coordination of:
- DEXA bone density scans
- Laboratory evaluation of metabolic bone disease
- Fracture risk assessment
- Monitoring of osteoporosis medications
Our Location
Make An Appointment
ColumbiaDoctors Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology is a leader in the care and treatment of rheumatic disease, offering the latest therapies for patients of all ages. Many of our treatment services are also offered through participation in research studies.
Before scheduling an appointment, patients may be asked to provide medical records for review. Recommended records include:
- Prior rheumatology clinic notes
- Previous DEXA scan reports
- Laboratory results
- Medication history
For questions about medical records or to make an appointment with a member of our Osteoporosis Care team, please call 212-305-4308 and our office will schedule your appointment.
Connect Patient Portal
Current patients can count on secure messaging, the use of our online bill payment feature, and 24/7/365 access to their healthcare information through the Connect online portal.
Signing up for Connect is easy. Ask about joining Connect at your next visit. If you already have an invitation and activation code, visit our sign-up page. If you do not have an activation code, visit our self-sign-up page and follow the directions.
Connect is a joint effort of Columbia, NewYork-Presbyterian, and Weill Cornell Medicine, so a single Connect account links you to all three institutions.