ABOUT US
Comfort and Compassion
Welcome to Lake Norman Arthritis Specialists. We are a highly experienced, independent physician practice that provides focused care with a concierge approach. With more than 20 years of experience in Rheumatology care, our providers and staff understand the unique needs of those that suffer from various rheumatologic and autoimmune diseases. Comfort and Compassion are the 2 "Cs" that embody our practice approach. Our goal is to find a solution to these challenges with the best and latest diagnostic tools and therapies available to give our patients better outcomes and a better quality of life.
DANIEL KIRBY, MD
Board Certified Rheumatologist
Dr. Daniel Kirby is a Board Certified Rheumatologist who has practiced in the Charlotte, North Carolina area for over 20 years. Dr. Kirby founded Lake Norman Arthritis Specialists based upon the application of the highest quality diagnostic skills coupled with compassionate care provided in an environment that has been described by many as more like a home than an office. Dr. Kirby obtained his Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida and his Medical Doctor degree from the University of Florida College of Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine Internship and Residency at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida and his Rheumatology Fellowship at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in Denver, Colorado. Dr. Kirby has been a national speaker for various pharmaceutical companies and a principal investigator for numerous clinical trials.
In his spare time, Dr. Kirby enjoys spending quality time with his wife, his 3 adult children, and his 5 dogs.
MICHELLE WANDS, MSN, RN, APRN, NP-C
Nurse Practitioner
Michelle is a nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience throughout her nursing career. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Western Carolina University and subsequently earned her Masters of Science in Nursing at Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, Michigan. She completed her Master's program with a focus in adult-gerontology. She is nationally board-certified with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Michelle is married with two amazing children and a lovely Newfydoodle, named Luna. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, golfing, playing the guitar, and gardening.
CHRISTY JONES
Infusion & Insurance Coordinator
Christy Jones has been working with Dr. Kirby for almost 20 years. She is our infusion coordinator and office/billing manager. More importantly, she is our patient advocate, handling insurance issues and dealing directly with drug manufacturing companies for copay assistance programs which help offset costs to patients with deductibles and OOP maximums. Christy's passion has always been providing excellent customer service and making our office feel more personable.
In her free time, Christy enjoys shopping, traveling, concerts, exercising, and spending time with her family and friends.
ANITA REID
Clinical Manager
Anita Reid is the heart of the Lake Norman Arthritis Specialists office. She keeps things as running smoothly as possible around the office with her many years of hospital care. Anita is always available and willing to perform beyond expectations. Most of her influence is unseen but greatly appreciated by staff and patients alike.
Her life outside the office is spent supporting family, church and school. She loves sports and down time at the Outer Banks.
DEBRA JOHNSTON, RN
Infusion Nurse
Debra Johnston has been a part of the Lake Norman Arthritis Specialists team for over 8 years. She has nearly 30 years of nursing experience with 25 years in the ICU. Debra's favorite part about working at Lake Norman Arthritis Specialists is assisting her patients in achieving pain reduction and returning to as much functionality as possible in their everyday lives. She keeps the infusion room in laughter and comradery.
Her hobbies include art, farming, never fitting into any mold, and finding joy in all things.
AUSTIN KIRBY
Medical Assistant
Austin is a valuable asset to the practice by assisting our practitioners with patient care. He is a manga cum laude graduate of Appalachian State University with a Cell Molecular Biology degree and has 3 years experience in medical research laboratories at University of Florida and University of Texas at San Antonio. Austin plans to further his education by attending a Physician Assistant program in the Fall of 2022.
In his free time Austin enjoys disc golf, snowboarding, and building custom computers.
