For 50 years, Denver Arthritis Clinic (DAC) has been a trusted leader in rheumatologic care for the Denver community and beyond. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we asked Dr. Timothy Gensler to share his reflections on DAC’s legacy, its values, and the relationships that define the clinic.
What does DAC represent to you as a physician, a colleague, and a leader?
“The DAC is a place where there is a longstanding commitment to excellence in care of patients, and it is that commitment that helps set the bar in the community for quality. Our clinical research has provided a significant contribution to the advancement of treatment for many of the diseases for which we care.”
What makes our clinic special in the rheumatology landscape or the Denver community?
“The longevity of the clinic as a private entity participating in high-quality, cutting-edge clinical research in addition to excellent patient care is undoubtedly unique in Denver and in many other parts of the country.”
What has kept you engaged and fulfilled in clinical practice over the years?
“The most fulfilling aspect of being a practicing rheumatologist is the personal relationships we form with our patients as we often follow them for decades and they become part of an extended family, allowing us to share the joys of their lives and also in the tragedies. There are only a few careers that foster these kinds of bonds.”
What excites you most about celebrating 50 years of DAC’s history?
“The fact that the same values and interests that the DAC was founded on are still the top priorities now, without a deviation away from what is most important – high-quality care, clinical research, and independence.”
What do you hope for the next 50 years of the clinic?
“I hope that the clinic continues to pursue these values and that we are part of the next group of breakthroughs in the treatment of rheumatic diseases.”
Any reflections on the rheumatology field and the unique privilege of caring for this patient population?
“Again, there are few careers where the chronicity of the diseases allows for longitudinal care over decades with the development of deep trusting relationships with our patients.”
Share with us a personal comment, story, or sentiment that shows the humanity behind the white coat.
“The story is brief but poignant. The high level of care provided by the physicians at the DAC and the doctor-patient bonds developed are so strong that many patients that I care for now, who were originally cared for by my partners, some of whom retired nearly 30 years ago, still inquire about these retired doctors and express extreme gratitude for how well they took care of them. That is truly astounding to me and sets a high standard to emulate.”
A brief expression of gratitude for the team, the patients, or the community.
“I have been blessed to work with some incredibly dedicated people at the DAC from within all parts of the clinic, including administrators, nurses, medical assistants, radiology technicians, front-office, and back-office team members. The combination of all of these committed team members is what makes the DAC an incredible place to work and allows me to provide the kind of care to patients that is special and unique in this era.”
Honoring 50 Years and Looking Ahead With Denver Arthritis Clinic
As Denver Arthritis Clinic celebrates five decades of care, research, and relationships, the words of Dr. Gensler reflect what has always defined DAC: commitment, continuity, and compassion. These values remain the foundation as the clinic looks ahead to the next generation of breakthroughs and patient care.
If you’re a patient ready to experience what makes DAC special, schedule an infusion therapy appointment with The Infusion Center at Denver Arthritis Clinic at our Denver (Lowry) or Lone Tree location. If you’re a referring physician, reach out to us here.
