Business Details
34 Years
experience
Comprehensive Rheumatology Care in Central Pennsylvania
Altoona Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center has been dedicated to advancing rheumatology care since its founding in 1992. Our physicians bring over 80 years of combined experience in diagnosing and treating complex conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and autoimmune diseases. Through active participation in more than 1,000 clinical trials, our team remains at the forefront of medical innovation while maintaining a patient-centered approach. We integrate cutting-edge research findings into daily practice through regular attendance at national medical conferences and collaborations with leading pharmaceutical companies. Our facility offers comprehensive diagnostic services including MRI, digital X-ray, and DXA scans, complemented by an on-site infusion suite and state-certified laboratory.The practice emphasizes compassionate care, recognizing the emotional challenges accompanying chronic pain conditions. Staff members prioritize patient education and personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Our dual commitment to clinical excellence and research advancement positions us as regional leaders in rheumatological care. The practice maintains strict compliance with medical ethics and patient privacy standards, holding certifications in Human Subjects Protection and HIPAA Research Training. This combination of experience, research engagement, and patient-focused care establishes our reputation as trusted specialists in central Pennsylvania.
Services
MRI Imaging
Infusion Therapy
Digital X-Ray
DXA Scans
Laboratory Testing
Clinical Trials
Rheumatology Consultations
Osteoporosis Management
Arthritis Treatment
Autoimmune Disease Care
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- Physicians with over 80 combined years of rheumatology experience
- On-site ACR-accredited imaging and state-certified laboratory services
- Active participation in 1,000+ clinical trials with major pharmaceutical companies
- Certified Principal Investigators with global research recognition
- Integrated approach combining clinical research with personalized patient care
Associations and certifications
- American College of Radiology
What people say
"unparalleled level of experience"
"staff truly enjoys helping patients"
"advanced rheumatology care"
"treated with utmost kindness"
"gave me my life back"
Services
MRI Imaging
Our ACR-accredited MRI facility provides detailed soft tissue imaging for diagnosing rheumatological conditions. This non-invasive technology helps identify joint inflammation, cartilage damage, and bone abnormalities. Patients benefit from immediate access to specialized imaging without requiring hospital visits.
Infusion Therapy
On-site infusion suite administers biologic therapies and disease-modifying medications directly to patients. This service eliminates the need for hospital-based treatments while maintaining strict safety protocols. Our staff monitors patients throughout infusion sessions for optimal care.
Clinical Trials
Active participation in pharmaceutical research provides access to experimental treatments. Patients may qualify for studies testing new rheumatology therapies through our 1,000+ trial history. All studies follow rigorous FDA-approved protocols with informed consent processes.
DXA Scans
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measures bone mineral density to diagnose osteoporosis. This specialized imaging detects early bone loss and monitors treatment effectiveness. Results guide personalized intervention strategies to prevent fractures.
Rheumatology Consultations
Board-certified rheumatologists provide comprehensive evaluations for joint, muscle, and autoimmune conditions. Consultations include detailed medical history reviews, physical examinations, and customized treatment planning. Ongoing management addresses chronic disease progression and symptom control.
People
Alan J. Kivitz
Founder & Principal Investigator
43-year rheumatology specialist with 500+ published research articles. Leads clinical trials for major pharmaceutical companies while maintaining direct patient care.
Frederick T. Murphy
Rheumatologist
Former Army Medical Corps Chief with military honors. Conducts clinical research in autoimmune diseases and teaches at Duke University's residency program.
Lori A. Lavelle
Rheumatology Specialist
Fellowship-trained osteopathic physician with expertise in musculoskeletal diagnosis. Provides comprehensive care for arthritis and connective tissue disorders.
Jason G. Bankert
Board-Certified Rheumatologist
Geisinger-trained specialist with dual board certifications in internal medicine and rheumatology. Participates in clinical trials as sub-investigator.
Angela Braatz
Physician Assistant
Experienced PA-C with 20+ years in rheumatology care. Provides direct patient support under physician supervision for treatment plans and follow-up care.
Questions
What conditions do you specialize in treating?
We specialize in arthritis, osteoporosis, and autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Do you offer on-site diagnostic testing?
Yes, we have MRI, digital X-ray, DXA scans, and a certified laboratory available same-day at our facility.
Are clinical trial opportunities available?
We actively conduct pharmaceutical research studies with over 1,000 trials completed. Eligible patients may access experimental treatments.
What makes your practice different from others?
Our combination of clinical research participation, board-certified specialists, and comprehensive on-site services creates unique patient care advantages.
How do you handle patient privacy?
We maintain strict HIPAA compliance with certified staff and secure systems to protect all patient information.
Do you accept new patients?
Yes, we welcome new patients at both our Altoona and Johnstown locations with appointments available for evaluation.
Reviews (4)
Mark Howard
Nov 19, 2021
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I have been going to see Dr. Kivitz for several years. He has tried me on several different biologics for my autoimmune disease. I have gotten very serious side effects from these medications, which isn't his fault. However what is his fault is he refuses to blame those medications for my side effects even though the timing lines up perfectly every time. I am now in a dangerous situation where my immune system is trashed.
He won't answer questions about it and keeps referring me to other doctors on the matter. He is the most robotic person I've ever met with no concern for his patients. You are only a number to him. The only good thing I will say is that the staff at this facility is great. But beware of Dr Kivitz. I'm currently changing doctors to a different facility. Hope this helps, I'm not one to leave bad reviews often.
He won't answer questions about it and keeps referring me to other doctors on the matter. He is the most robotic person I've ever met with no concern for his patients. You are only a number to him. The only good thing I will say is that the staff at this facility is great. But beware of Dr Kivitz. I'm currently changing doctors to a different facility. Hope this helps, I'm not one to leave bad reviews often.
Mike Waka
Jan 17, 2021
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Everything was handled in a very professional manner, the staff was very friendly & Dr. Murphy showed that he truly cares about his patients.
Valerie Adams
Jun 19, 2019
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It's a nice place to be you will have to try it out for yourself but it helps me and I enjoy myself while I'm there they treat you with respect try it you may like it for now peace and blessings have a fabulous holiday season
Susan Milligan
Feb 11, 2018
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Dr. Kivitz and his brilliant staff have given me 14 years of living very well with rheumatoid arthritis. Altoona Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center is also a research facility doing clinical trials, so are at the front on treatments for their patients and are successfully treating many related diseases.
