Kristin M. Ingraham, D.O.

Why did you choose to become a rheumatologist?

The field is exciting to me because our knowledge, understanding and treatment of autoimmune diseases have recently significantly improved. Many new medications, especially those to treat rheumatoid arthritis, have become available to physicians and patients in just the past 10 years.

Are you from this area?

I am originally from the Lehigh Valley and recently moved back with my husband and daughter after completing my rheumatology training at Georgetown University Hospital and the Washington, D.C., Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Those are two very different hospitals. What does your training mean for your patients?

My unique training at both hospitals enabled me to care for patients with common rheumatologic diseases such as gout, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, as well as those with rare disorders such as scleroderma, myositis and vasculitis. I was fortunate to train and perform clinical research with nationally recognized experts in rheumatology.

What is your greatest passion in medicine?

Improving my patients' quality of life is of utmost importance. I love it when patients tell me they have returned to doing the things they enjoy most - whether that be work, exercise or a hobby - because their prescribed treatment is effective.

---

Education

D.O., 2002, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
M.B.A., Health Administration concentration, 2000, St. Joseph's University, Philadelphia, Pa.
B.S., summa cum laude, 1997, DeSales University

Residency in Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital

Fellowship in Rheumatology

Rheumatology, Georgetown University Hospital

Board Certification

Board-certified in Internal Medicine
Board certified in Rheumatology

Affiliations

American College of Physicians/American Society of Internal Medicine
American Medical Association
American College of Rheumatology
District of Columbia Rheumatism Society

Honors and Awards

Irving S. Rogove, D.O., Memorial Award
Board of Trustees Scholar
Sigma Sigma Phi national osteopathic honor and service fraternity
Alpha Epsilon Lambda national honor society for the promotion of academic excellence for graduate and professional students