At Articularis Rheumatology Specialists of Smyrna, Dr. Ferhana Najam and Dr. Clare Omekam provide expert rheumatologic care tailored to the needs of the local community. Conveniently located, our office is easily accessible for patients from Austell, Villa Rica, Powder Springs, and surrounding areas. We specialize in diagnosing and treating autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Najam’s and Dr. Clare’s commitment to personalized care ensures that every patient receives the highest level of attention, helping them achieve better health and an improved quality of life.
Dr. Ferhana Najam is a Smyrna-based clinical rheumatologist with over two decades of experience specializing in the management of complex rheumatological conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus, vasculitis, myositis and more. Born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan, Dr. Najam earned a medical degree from Dow Medical College before pursuing advanced training in rheumatology during her fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
Now proudly serving patients in Smyrna, Georgia and the greater Atlanta area, Dr. Najam brings a wealth of expertise and a patient-centered approach to her rheumatology practice. Since joining the Atlanta medical community in 2016, Dr. Najam has been recognized for her clinical excellence, earning the distinction of being named one of Atlanta's Top Doctors every year since 2022. This award is a testament to not only her expertise in her field, but also her dedication to providing the absolute best in patient care to residents of Smyrna and surrounding communities.
In addition to medicine, Dr. Najam is a talented artist, currently working on an illustrative rheumatology book designed to make complex medical concepts more accessible and engaging. Residing near her Smyrna practice in Atlanta, Georgia, with her loving husband and two sons, Dr. Najam values family time and enjoys traveling to explore new cultures and experiences.
Whether advancing care for patients with rheumatological conditions in Smyrna, creating meaningful art, or spending time with loved ones, Dr. Najam embodies a balanced and compassionate approach to both professional and personal life.
Dr. Clare Omekam is a board-certified internist and practicing rheumatologist with a strong background in clinical care, mentorship, and medical leadership. She earned her medical degree from the Medical University of Lublin in Poland and completed her internal medicine residency at Piedmont Macon Medical Center in Georgia, where she also served as chief resident. During her training, she gained extensive experience caring for complex inpatient and outpatient cases, mentoring residents, and leading quality improvement initiatives. She went on to complete her rheumatology fellowship at the University of Illinois Chicago, where she received advanced training in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
Dr. Omekam was drawn to rheumatology for its intellectual challenge, investigative nature, and the opportunity to build lasting relationships with patients. For her, the most meaningful part of rheumatology is guiding patients through what can often be a long and overwhelming journey to diagnosis, listening, validating, and helping them reclaim their quality of life. She believes in patient-centered care rooted in compassion, education, and partnership.
With a multicultural background shaped by her Nigerian heritage, years of study abroad in Poland, and her various travels with exposure to different cultures and perspectives, Dr. Omekam values diversity and connection on both a personal and professional level. Outside of medicine, she enjoys reading fiction, traveling, and exploring her creative side through drawing. Grounded in her love for home and family, she finds joy in meaningful connections, expressing herself through art, and discovering new ways to engage with the world around her. She is also passionate about mentorship, supporting others in their growth, and sharing insights that bring a fresh and authentic perspective to medicine.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent joint damage.
How We Treat RA: Dr. Najam and Dr. Omekam provide expert care for RA with advanced treatments like biologics and targeted therapies. Conveniently located for patients in Mableton, Lithia Springs, Vinings, and surrounding areas, we focus on improving mobility and reducing pain so you can get back to enjoying favorite activities like exploring the Silver Comet Trail or visiting the Market Village in downtown Smyrna.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause widespread inflammation affecting the joints, skin, and internal organs. Symptoms can vary widely, making specialized care essential.
How We Treat Lupus: At our Smyrna office, Dr. Najam and Dr. Clare provide comprehensive lupus care, including medications, lifestyle counseling, and symptom management. We’re here to help residents of Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Fair Oaks, and surrounding communities lead healthier lives while managing this complex condition.
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid buildup, leading to intense joint pain and swelling, most commonly in the big toe. Without proper management, recurring flares can lead to long-term joint damage.
How We Treat Gout: At our Smyrna office, Dr. Najam and Dr. Omekam offer personalized treatment plans to help manage and prevent gout flares. Using advanced medications and tailored dietary guidance, we focus on reducing inflammation and long-term joint damage. Conveniently located for patients in Lithia Springs, Clarkdale, Dallas, and surrounding areas, our team is here to help you stay active and pain-free.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that results from cartilage breakdown, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It most commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
How We Treat Osteoarthritis: At our Smyrna office, Dr. Najam and Dr. Omekam provides personalized care to help manage osteoarthritis and improve joint function. From physical therapy to joint injections, we offer advanced treatment options tailored to your needs. Whether you’re exploring Smyrna Market Village or catching a show at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, we’re here to help you stay active and live comfortably.
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects moisture-producing glands, leading to dry eyes, dry mouth, and potential joint pain.
How We Treat Sjogren’s Syndrome: At our Smyrna office, Dr. Najam and Dr. Omekam specialize in helping patients manage the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome with personalized care plans. From advanced treatments to lifestyle guidance, we focus on improving daily comfort and overall health. Conveniently located near Hiram, Acworth, Douglasville, and surrounding communities, we’re here to support you in maintaining an active, fulfilling life while managing this condition.
Everyone was very kind and caring and put me at ease. They were easy to schedule with and they got me an appointment set up quickly. They were very thorough and really listened to my worries and concerns.”
- Current Patient
Accepted Insurance Plans
Aetna
Anthem / BCBS GA
Champ VA
Cigna
Clover Health
Devoted
First Health
Humana Medicare
Humana Military/Tricare
Medcost (now Health Plans Inc.)
Medicaid GA
Medicare
Medicare Railroad
Multiplan – now Claritev
Partners Health Direct
United Healthcare
XO Health
We participate with most major insurance plans. Coverage may depend on your individual policy, so we encourage you to verify your benefits directly with your insurance company.
