Robert Shmerling

I was born and raised in Nashville, TN but moved to Boston in 1975 for college and medical school.  I graduated from Tufts University in 1979 and from Harvard Medical School in 1983.   I completed my residency at Beth Israel Hospital in 1986 and my rheumatology /general medicine fellowship at Beth Israel and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.   Since then I have worked at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). 

I enjoy a mix of clinical care, teaching and research.  My practice includes challenging patients both in the clinic and inpatient consultation service.  My research interest focuses on diagnostic studies in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms, rheumatic and autoimmune diseases.  I have written about which tests of synovial fluid are most useful as well as the clinical utility of the rheumatoid factor and the anti-nuclear antibody.  In addition to frequent presentations to trainees, colleagues and at invited lectures, I have studied diagnostic testing in our institution.  I am particularly interested in how doctors order and interpret their results.   I have extensive teaching responsibilities within BIDMC and HMS including precepting residents and fellows in our rheumatology practice.  As the Robinson Firm Chief since 1998, I coordinate a teaching role that includes Attending Rounds, Walk Rounds and leading Firm Conference.  As of 2011, I became the Program Director for the newly accredited BIDMC Rheumatology Fellowship program.