# Bay Arthritis Institute

> Bay Arthritis Institute is a rheumatology practice in Panama City, Florida, led by board-certified rheumatologist Dr. Amir Agha. The team diagnoses and treats arthritis, autoimmune and other joint, muscle and bone conditions for patients in Panama City, Bay County and Northwest Florida. Infusion therapy, musculoskeletal ultrasound and physical therapy are offered in the same office.

## Key facts
- Address: 2232 W. 24th Street, Panama City, FL 32405
- Phone: (850) 215-3062 · Fax: (850) 215-3024 · Email: admin@bayarthritis.com
- Hours: Monday – Thursday 8am – Noon & 1pm – 5pm; Friday 8am – 1pm; Saturday – Sunday Closed (closed for lunch)
- Request an appointment: https://www.cognitoforms.com/WebPagesForDoctors1/BayArthritisInstitute
- Patient portal (athenahealth): https://9285.portal.athenahealth.com/
- Insurance: We accept most insurance plans. We do not accept Medicare Advantage plans.
- Language: English
- Medical director: Dr. Amir Agha, board-certified rheumatologist

## Services
- Rheumatology Consultation: A personal exam and treatment plan for joint, bone and muscle problems, led by Dr. Agha and our clinical team.
- Infusion Therapy: Infusion treatments given in our own office by a dedicated infusion team.
- Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Ultrasound of your joints and soft tissue in our office, done by a registered musculoskeletal sonographer (RMSKS).
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy with Jeffrey D. Hyde, P.T., to help you move better and get stronger.

## Conditions we treat
- [Osteoarthritis](https://bayarthritis.com/osteoarthritis/): Cartilage is the cushion between your bones. When it wears out, joints hurt and are hard to move. It often affects the knees, hips, neck and fingers.
- [Rheumatoid Arthritis](https://bayarthritis.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/): Your immune system attacks your joints by mistake. This causes pain and swelling that is not from aging.
- [Connective Tissue Disease](https://bayarthritis.com/connective-tissue-diseases/): These diseases affect the tissues that support your organs and body. They can cause joint pain and skin problems. Some are autoimmune diseases.
- [Psoriatic Arthritis](https://bayarthritis.com/psoriatic-arthritis/): This joint pain is linked to psoriasis, a skin condition with painful rashes. It can feel like rheumatoid arthritis.
- [Gout](https://bayarthritis.com/gout/): A build-up of uric acid causes this type of arthritis. It brings sudden, severe joint pain, often in the big toe.
- [Fibromyalgia](https://bayarthritis.com/fibromyalgia/): This causes pain all over the body. It often comes with tiredness and mood changes.
- [Osteoporosis](https://bayarthritis.com/osteoporosis/): Bones lose minerals and become weak and brittle. This raises the risk of broken bones.
- [Polymyalgia Rheumatica](https://bayarthritis.com/polymyalgia-rheumatica/): This inflammation causes muscle pain and stiffness, mostly in the neck, shoulders and hips.
- [Lupus](https://bayarthritis.com/lupus/): Care for systemic lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disease that can affect the joints, skin and organs.

## Our team
- [Dr. Amir Agha](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/about-us-amir-agha-bio/): Board Certified Rheumatologist, CEO & Medical Director
- [Jordan Wester, APRN, FNP-C](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/jordan-wester-bio/): Family Nurse Practitioner–Certified
- [Tamara Holland, PA-C](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/tamara-holland-pa-c/): Certified Physician Assistant
- [Jensen Clifford, PA-C](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/jensen-clifford/): Certified Physician Assistant
- [Jeffrey D. Hyde, P.T.](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/jeff-hyde/): Physical Therapy
- [MK Freeman, RMSKS, MHA](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/mary-katherine-freeman/): Musculoskeletal Sonographer
- [Andre C. Smith](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/andre-smith/): Chief Operating Officer
- [Katie Morris](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/katie-morris/): Billing Manager

## Practice pages
- [About Us](https://bayarthritis.com/about-us/): Who we are and how we care for patients.
- [Patient Reviews](https://bayarthritis.com/reviews/): What patients say about their care.
- [Patient Forms](https://bayarthritis.com/patient-forms/): Forms to fill out before your visit.
- [Contact Us](https://bayarthritis.com/contact-us/): Phone extensions, map, hours and directions.
- [Resource Links](https://bayarthritis.com/resource-links/): Trusted outside health resources.

## FAQ
### What is rheumatology?
Rheumatology is the care of joints, muscles and bones. A rheumatologist is a doctor who treats diseases that cause pain, swelling and stiffness, such as arthritis, gout and lupus. Many of these conditions involve inflammation. They can make daily tasks, like walking or gripping, hard to do.

### Why see a rheumatologist?
See a rheumatologist when joint or muscle pain will not go away and is hurting your daily life. Rheumatologists treat many conditions, and some are rare and complex. An early visit can lead to the right diagnosis sooner, so you can start treatment before the problem gets worse.

### Why choose Bay Arthritis Institute?
Bay Arthritis Institute is a rheumatologist in Panama City that offers care beyond a diagnosis. Board-certified Dr. Amir Agha leads our team. We focus on early, effective treatment, and we build each plan around your needs. Infusion, ultrasound and physical therapy are all in our office.

### How do I schedule an appointment?
Call us at (850) 215-3062 to schedule an appointment. Reception is ext. 201, 202 or 204. You can also fill out our online appointment request form at any time. Our team will then help you book your first visit with one of our providers. We are accepting new patients.

### Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most insurance plans, but we do not accept Medicare Advantage plans. To confirm your plan before your visit, call (850) 215-3062 ext. 304. Our insurance team will check your coverage before your first visit. Not sure about your plan? Call us before you book and we will confirm it for you.

### Who do I call about insurance or billing?
For insurance questions, call (850) 215-3062 ext. 304. For billing questions, such as a statement or a payment, call ext. 210. Both teams answer on our main number, so call (850) 215-3062 first and then dial the extension. Our office hours are listed on this page.

### Do you have a patient portal?
Yes, existing patients can use the athenahealth Patient Portal. You can use it to connect with our office online, send messages and see your health information. For questions about your health, please use the portal instead of regular email, which is not a secure way to share medical details.

## Optional
- [Recent News](https://bayarthritis.com/recent-news/): Articles and practice news.
- [Jensen Clifford Joins Bay Arthritis Institute as a Physician Assistant](https://bayarthritis.com/jensen-clifford-bay-arthritis-institute/): Physician assistant Jensen Clifford joins Bay Arthritis Institute. Meet the caring, certified PA-C who just joined our Panama City team.
- [Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Helping Children Thrive](https://bayarthritis.com/juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis/): Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: the early signs, 3 main types, treatment and 6 practical tips that help children stay active. Read our guide.
- [Physician Assistant Tamara Holland Joins Bay Arthritis Institute](https://bayarthritis.com/tamara-holland-physician-assistant-bay-arthritis-institute/): Tamara Holland, physician assistant, joins our Panama City team. Meet the caring PA-C who listens first and puts patients at the center of care.
- [Reactive Arthritis Causes, Triggers and Treatment](https://bayarthritis.com/reactive-arthritis-causes/): Learn reactive arthritis causes: the 3 kinds of infection that trigger it, early signs and proven treatment from our expert rheumatologists.
- [What Causes Fibromyalgia? Coping With Chronic Pain and Fatigue](https://bayarthritis.com/fibromyalgia-causes/): What causes fibromyalgia? Learn the signs, the likely causes and 5 simple ways to cope with pain, fatigue and fibro fog. Read our guide.
- [Signs of Lupus and How to Live Well in Panama City](https://bayarthritis.com/lupus-recognizing-the-signs-and-living-well-in-panama-city/): Signs of lupus to watch for, how it's diagnosed and treated, and 7 simple tips for living well with lupus in sunny Panama City. Read on.
- [Scleroderma Causes and Symptoms: Skin and Organ Health](https://bayarthritis.com/scleroderma-causes-symptoms/): Scleroderma causes and symptoms explained: the 2 main types, how it affects skin and organs, and simple tips for living well. Read our guide.
- [Psoriatic Arthritis Causes, Symptoms and the Skin-Joint Link](https://bayarthritis.com/psoriatic-arthritis-causes/): Psoriatic arthritis causes and symptoms explained: the skin-joint link, 4 risk factors and proven care from our expert rheumatologists.
- [Vasculitis Symptoms and Treatment: A Guide for Panama City](https://bayarthritis.com/vasculitis-symptoms-causes-treatment/): Vasculitis symptoms and treatment explained: 3 common types, the warning signs by body area, how it's diagnosed and proven ways to treat it.
- [Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms and Treatment: Posture and Mobility Tips](https://bayarthritis.com/ankylosing-spondylitis-symptoms-treatment/): Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms and treatment, plus 4 simple posture and mobility tips from our Panama City rheumatologists. Book a visit today.
- [Combating Sjögren's Dryness and Fatigue: A Guide for Panama City](https://bayarthritis.com/combating-dryness-and-fatigue/): Combating Sjögren's dryness and fatigue: simple eye, mouth and energy tips, plus proven treatments from our Panama City rheumatologists.
- [Gout Flare Prevention During the Holidays in Panama City](https://bayarthritis.com/gout-flare-prevention-in-panama-city/): Gout flare prevention for the holidays: know your triggers, eat and drink wisely, and try 4 easy gout-friendly recipes. Read our guide.
- [Rheumatoid Arthritis Flares: How to Manage Them During the Holidays](https://bayarthritis.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-flares/): Rheumatoid arthritis flares during the holidays? Learn the 5 common triggers and simple tips for stress, food, weather and sleep. Read on.
- [Early Signs of Osteoarthritis and Treatment Options in Panama City](https://bayarthritis.com/osteoarthritis-in-panama-city-fl/): Early signs of osteoarthritis: spot these 5 warning signs, know your risk and explore proven treatments that ease joint pain. Read our guide.
- [Understanding Polymyalgia Rheumatica and How to Manage It](https://bayarthritis.com/september-polymyalgia-rheumatica/): Understanding polymyalgia rheumatica: who gets it, 4 treatment types, gentle exercise, food and daily tips to ease PMR stiffness. Read on.
- [Psoriatic Arthritis Relief: Keys to Protecting Your Joints](https://bayarthritis.com/august-psoriatic-arthritis-keys-to-relief-and-joint-protection-in-panama-city-fl-08-01-2025/): Psoriatic arthritis relief starts here: new medicines, joint-safe exercise, anti-inflammatory food and 3 stress tips from our expert team.
- [Fibromyalgia Chronic Pain: Understanding It and Living Better](https://bayarthritis.com/july-fibromyalgia-understanding-and-managing-chronic-pain-for-better-quality-of-life-in-panama-city-fl-07-01-2025/): Fibromyalgia chronic pain can ease. Learn the 3 FDA-approved medicines, gentle exercise, food, sleep and stress tips that help. Read on.
- [Advocating for Rheumatology Patients on Capitol Hill](https://bayarthritis.com/mayadvocating-for-rheumatology-patients-on-capitol-hill-05-15-2025/): Advocating for rheumatology patients: our COO took 2 key bills on fair pay and drug pricing to Congress. Read why it matters for your care.
- [What Is Connective Tissue Disease? Understanding and Managing CTDs](https://bayarthritis.com/connective-tissue-disease/): Understanding connective tissue disease: learn the 4 main types, from lupus to scleroderma, and proven ways to manage them with our expert team.
- [Welcome Jeffrey D. Hyde, P.T.: A New Era in Our Physical Therapy Services](https://bayarthritis.com/welcome-jeffrey-d-hyde-p-t-to-bay-arthritis-institute-a-new-era-in-physical-therapy/): Physical therapy services grow: Jeffrey Hyde brings 28 years of skill to our Panama City office. See his training and the care he offers.
- [Managing Polymyalgia Rheumatica Pain and Inflammation](https://bayarthritis.com/polymyalgia-rheumatica-managing-the-pain-and-inflammation-in-panama-city-fl-03-01-2025/): Polymyalgia rheumatica pain and inflammation can ease. Learn the 3 main treatments, gentle exercises, foods and habits that help with PMR.
- [Living With Osteoarthritis: A Guide to Managing Joint Pain](https://bayarthritis.com/february-managing-osteoarthritis-the-ultimate-guide-to-living-comfortably-in-panama-city-fl-02-01-2025/): Living with osteoarthritis? Try these proven steps: shots, physical therapy, easy exercises, joint-friendly food and 2 lifestyle changes.
- [Managing Gout and Arthritis Pain: Start Your Year Pain-Free](https://bayarthritis.com/january-start-your-year-with-no-arthritis-pain-the-ultimate-guide-to-managing-gout-and-arthritis-in-panama-city-fl-01-01-2025/): Managing gout and arthritis pain this year: new medicines, physical therapy, easy exercises and the best foods for your joints. Read the guide.
- [Physical Therapy for Gout and Arthritis Pain: Best Winter Exercises](https://bayarthritis.com/december-best-physical-therapy-and-exercises-for-managing-gout-and-arthritis-pain-in-panama-city-fl-12-01-2024/): Physical therapy for gout and arthritis pain: 3 hands-on therapies, 4 easy exercises and winter tips to stay mobile, from our Panama City team.
- [New Gout Studies: Managing Flare-Ups and Improving Joint Health](https://bayarthritis.com/november-new-insights-from-gout-studies-managing-flare-ups-and-improving-joint-health-in-panama-city-fl/): New gout studies show what works: proven medicines, the right foods and 5 simple steps to prevent flare-ups and protect your joints.
- [Medicare Advantage and Arthritis: What Part C Plans Cover](https://bayarthritis.com/october-how-medicare-advantage-plans-support-arthritis-pain-management-in-panama-city-fl/): Medicare Advantage and arthritis: 5 benefits Part C plans may cover and what to check before you enroll. Note: we don't accept these plans.
- [Physical Therapy and the Top 5 Exercises for Arthritis Relief](https://bayarthritis.com/september-physical-therapy-and-top-exercises-for-arthritis-relief-in-panama-city-fl/): Exercises for arthritis relief: 5 easy types of exercise and how physical therapy eases joint pain, with in-house PT at our Panama City office.
- [Managing Autoimmune Flare-Ups: Physical Activity and Arthritis Relief](https://bayarthritis.com/august-managing-autoimmune-flare-ups-physical-activity-and-arthritis-relief-in-panama-city-fl/): Autoimmune flare-ups and physical activity: 5 gentle exercises that ease arthritis pain, plus safe tips from our Panama City rheumatologists.
- [How to Manage Arthritis Pain in Summer Heat: Panama City Tips](https://bayarthritis.com/july-how-to-manage-arthritis-pain-in-the-summer-heat-panama-city-fl-tips/): Arthritis pain in summer heat? Try these 7 simple tips to stay cool, hydrated and active this summer, from our Panama City rheumatologists.
- [June Newsletter: New Biologic Treatments for Arthritis](https://bayarthritis.com/bay-arthritis-institute-june-newsletter/): Biologic treatments for arthritis keep improving. See 3 new research trends, the benefits and risks, and our comfortable on-site infusion suite.
- [Arthritis Awareness Month: Advocating for Yourself and Others](https://bayarthritis.com/arthritis-awareness-month-advocating-for-yourself-and-others/): Arthritis Awareness Month is every May. Learn 3 simple ways to speak up for better arthritis care, and how our COO took the cause to Capitol Hill.
- [April 2024 Newsletter: Managing Arthritis Flares and Finding Relief](https://bayarthritis.com/april-newsletter-managing-flares-and-finding-relief/): Managing arthritis flares: 5 simple relief tips, help paying for medicine and sun safety, from your Panama City rheumatologists. Read on.
- [March Newsletter: Your Spring Joint Health Guide](https://bayarthritis.com/march-newsletter-spring-joint-health-guide/): Spring joint health starts with safe movement. See easy exercises for arthritis, therapy coverage and 5 things to know about Medicare Advantage.
- [Andre C. Smith Joins Bay Arthritis Institute as Chief Operations Officer](https://bayarthritis.com/andre-c-smith-joins-bay-arthritis-institute-as-chief-operations-officer/): Andre Smith is our new chief operations officer. Meet the Bay County native who brings 13+ years of trusted healthcare leadership to our team.
- [Dealing With Arthritis: Dr. Agha on WMBB](https://bayarthritis.com/dealing-with-arthritis-wmbb/): Dealing with arthritis? Dr. Amir Agha explains on WMBB why early care prevents permanent joint damage, and who gets arthritis most. Read now.
- [Common Types of Arthritis](https://bayarthritis.com/common-types-of-arthritis/): Common types of arthritis explained: psoriatic, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis and RA, with 4 warning signs to know. Call us today.
- [Do You Have Fibromyalgia? Signs to Watch For](https://bayarthritis.com/do-you-have-fibromyalgia/): Do you have fibromyalgia? Learn 4 common signs, from tiredness and pain to poor sleep, and how our team can help ease your symptoms. Read on.
- [Gout Study: Why Gout Attacks Calm Down on Their Own](https://bayarthritis.com/gout-study/): A gout study in plain words: how one protein helps the body clear swelling after a gout attack, and why flares differ from person to person.
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