Christian Rhea, D.O., F.A.C.R.

Dr. Christian Rhea has practiced as a Rheumatologist with Heritage Medical Associates since 2006. He graduated Cum Laude from the University of Florida in 1994, and again in 2000 as valedictorian of his medical school class at the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Rhea then completed his residency training in Internal Medicine at the University of South Carolina where he was named the Charles S. Bryant Academic Scholar and served there as a Chief Resident. In 2004, he came to Nashville to complete his Fellowship in Rheumatology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Rhea has earned board certification in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology through the ABIM, Clinical Densitometry Certification through the ISCD and Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (RhMsUS) certification through the ACR. Dr. Rhea has a particular interest in integrating ultrasound in the everyday practice of Rheumatology. 

 

While his practice covers the spectrum of Rheumatologic disease, Dr. Rhea has specific interest in treating patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Lupus, Vasculitis, Osteoporosis and Gout. 

 

Outside of his practice at HMA, Dr. Rhea also holds an appointment as an associate adjunct teaching faculty with the University of Tennessee and teaches residents at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Additionally, since 2010, he has been volunteering and supporting the Siloam Clinic for the uninsured in Nashville and believes in the mission of this organization.

 

Dr. Rhea grew up in South Florida, but he and his family have made Nashville home since 2004. During his time away from work, Dr. Rhea most enjoys time with his family, cooking, scuba diving, playing baseball and golf and he is a certified CrossFit trainer.