Dr. Walter L. Chmelewski

I enjoy the field of medicine because of the relationships that are built between patients and myself. I place a strong emphasis on educating patients about their conditions and medication. This allows us to go through a shared decision-making process that tailors treatment to the individual. Dr. Doss is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Relapsing Polychondritis. His top areas of expertise are Relapsing Polychondritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Lupus Nephritis, and Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease (UCTD).

I am a board-certified rheumatologist who provides consultative care for patients with a wide variety of musculoskeletal and autoimmune diseases. My training and experience have provided me with the ability to evaluate and treat complex illnesses and work closely with your primary care provider to achieve the best possible outcomes. In addition to patient care, I spend about half of my time doing clinical research. Throughout my research career, I have focused on the development of novel therapies for various rheumatologic diseases, including primary Sjögren’s syndrome, vasculitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. As a leader within the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, I have gained an appreciation for the value of teamwork in addressing patient concerns and improving our clinical practice. I balance my job through family and sports, which keeps me energized and happy with my work. Dr. St. Clair is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Relapsing Polychondritis. His top areas of expertise are Sjogren Syndrome, Vasculitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), and Relapsing Polychondritis.

My primary clinical and research focus is systemic sclerosis (Scleroderma), a rare, chronic autoimmune condition. I direct the Duke Scleroderma Center, one of 40 centers in the country focusing on this disease. We are currently conducting clinical trials and have initiated a registry for patients with scleroderma to help identify better treatments. We utilize a multidisciplinary approach along with pulmonologists, cardiologists, gastroenterologists and hematologists to find the best treatment course for an individual patient. Outside of the hospital I enjoy running and spending time with my family, including our wide assortment of animals. Dr. Shah is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Relapsing Polychondritis. His top areas of expertise are Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), Scleroma, Scleroderma, and Localized Scleroderma.