About
D. completed his medical training at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He then pursued a combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics residency at Michigan State University. His fellowship in Adult and Pediatric Rheumatology at Duke University prepared him to treat inflammatory and autoimmune conditions across all age groups. He holds board certification in Rheumatology from the American Board of Internal Medicine and in Pediatric Rheumatology from the American Board of Pediatrics.
Dr. Birmingham has practiced in the Grand Rapids area for over 15 years and brings more than 20 years of rheumatology experience to his patients. He believes that treating disease well requires integrating evidence-based medicine with attention to sleep, diet, exercise, stress, and emotional health. He views rheumatology as a specialty that demands deep knowledge across multiple body systems and rewards long-term patient relationships. Outside the clinic, he is married with seven children and enjoys reading, time outdoors, and following Ohio State athletics.
Education & Training
Medical School
The Ohio State University College of Medicine
Residency
Internal Medicine/Pediatrics, Michigan State University
Fellowship
Adult and Pediatric Rheumatology, Duke University
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Birmingham right for?
Dr. Birmingham is a strong match for adults and children living with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Patients managing rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, spondyloarthritis, gout, or vasculitis benefit from his dual adult and pediatric board certification. Those who want a physician who integrates lifestyle guidance into disease management will find his approach particularly valuable. Patients seeking concierge-level access, including same-day appointments and direct communication, can enroll in his membership program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Birmingham treats a wide range of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions in both adults and children. These include rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, dermatomyositis, gout, vasculitis, and spondyloarthritis. His dual fellowship training at Duke University positions him to care for patients across all age groups.
Yes. Dr. Birmingham holds two board certifications. The American Board of Internal Medicine certified him in Rheumatology, and the American Board of Pediatrics certified him in Pediatric Rheumatology. This dual certification is uncommon and allows him to treat both adult and pediatric patients.
Dr. Birmingham earned his medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Michigan State University. He then trained in Adult and Pediatric Rheumatology through a fellowship at Duke University.
Yes. Dr. Birmingham offers a concierge membership program through River City Wellness and Integrated Care. Members receive same-day or next-day appointments, 45-minute routine visits, a 90-minute annual comprehensive wellness exam, and direct access to Dr. Birmingham on a dedicated line. Membership spots are limited and filled on a first-come, first-serve basis, with priority given to established patients.
Dr. Birmingham combines evidence-based rheumatology with a whole-person perspective. He addresses not just diagnosis and medication, but also lifestyle factors including sleep, diet, exercise, stress management, and emotional and spiritual well-being. He believes genetic predisposition and daily habits both shape long-term health outcomes.
Yes. Dr. Birmingham holds board certification in both Rheumatology and Pediatric Rheumatology. He completed a combined Adult and Pediatric Rheumatology fellowship at Duke University. River City Rheumatology welcomes patients of all ages.
Dr. Birmingham has practiced in the Grand Rapids area for over 15 years. He brings more than 20 years of rheumatology experience overall. He founded River City Rheumatology and River City Wellness and Integrated Care to build a practice centered on thorough, relationship-driven care.
Doctor profile last updated August 19, 2026