Wednesday, October 6, 2021

USA College of Medicine alumna joins USA Health as rheumatologist

Sonia Savani, M.D., a 2013 graduate of the USA College of Medicine, recently joined USA Health as a rheumatologist to help the community that played a pivotal role in her academic journey.

Savani was drawn to science at an early age, and the opportunity to help those who struggle with chronic conditions eventually led her to rheumatology.

“I have a deep desire to try to make things better for the people around me,” she said. “Many of the diseases we take care of as rheumatologists are chronic illnesses that can be absolutely debilitating and chip away at people's lives. I wanted a lifetime of being able to do something for others that could provide them the opportunity to live a healthier and more complete life.”

Rheumatology focuses on the treatment of rheumatic diseases, which affect the body’s muscles, bones and organs. Arthritis is the commonly used umbrella term for many rheumatic diseases, which also include lupus and gout. These conditions can cause periods of intense pain that can impact a person’s quality of life deeply. The goal of a rheumatologist is to alleviate the intensity of these diseases and slow their progression.

Savani hopes to build a diverse outpatient practice for patients of all ages, though she currently is accepting only adult patients. She also is eager to participate in the academic side of the health system by teaching medical students and encouraging them to pursue rheumatology.

Savani earned a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences from USA and a medical degree from the USA College of Medicine. She completed residency training in internal medicine and pediatrics, followed by a fellowship in adult and pediatric rheumatology at the Medical University of South Carolina. She also earned a master's degree in clinical research from MUSC.

She is a member of the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Savani is accepting referrals and new patients at the USA Health Mobile Diagnostic Center at the Commons. Call 251-660-5787 to schedule an appointment.