Group Therapy
Biographies

Dr. Quan Bio:
Dr. Timothy Quan is a board-certified rheumatologist dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of rheumatic diseases. A graduate of Yale University, he earned his medical degree from the State University of New York Health Science Center in Brooklyn, where his early research earned him the AOA Medical Student Research Award. He returned to Yale University for his residency and fellowship in Rheumatology, later joining the faculty as an Assistant Professor at Yale School of Medicine.
Renowned for his diagnostic acumen, Dr. Quan integrates cutting-edge immunology research into clinical practice, ensuring patients benefit from the latest scientific advancements. His publications reflect his commitment to bridging laboratory discoveries with real-world patient care, making him a sought-after expert in complex rheumatic conditions.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Quan serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at Yale University, Quinnipiac University, UCONN, and the New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. His dedication to education, research, and patient-centered innovation continues to shape the field and improve outcomes for those with rheumatic diseases.
Awards and Recognition
- Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Award, National Institute of Health
- Arthritis Investigator Award, American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation
- Clinical Scholars Award, Yale Center for Clinical Investigation
- New Investigator Award, Scleroderma Foundation
- Physician-Scientist Development Award, American College of Rheumatology
- Abbott Scholars Award, Abbott Labs
- AOA Medical Student Research Award, State University of New York at Brooklyn
- Summer Medical Student Award, Arthritis Foundation
Credentials
Academic Affiliations
- Assistant Clinical Professor, Yale University
- Assistant Clinical Professor, Quinnipiac University
- Assistant Clinical Professor, UCONN
- Assistant Clinical Professor, New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Lea’s Bio:
Lea Tripodi, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant with a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of St. Joseph, where she graduated with honors. She joined Rheumatology Specialists of CT in the Spring of 2022.
Lea’s rigorous training includes diverse clinical rotations across specialties such as orthopedic surgery, emergency medicine, women’s health, and inpatient care at leading institutions like Hartford Hospital, Danbury Hospital, and Block Island Medical Center.
Her early experience as a Physical Therapy Aide and Home Health Aide further shaped her hands-on, compassionate approach to patient care. Her commitment to patient-centered care—rooted in empathy and clinical excellence—ensures the best possible outcomes for those with rheumatologic conditions.


Manuel's Bio:
Manuel A. Rivera, PA-C is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a graduate of Northeastern University’s Physician Assistant Program. He has extensive experience in home-based medical care, complex chronic disease management, and serving underserved populations. Fluent in Spanish and deeply committed to patient-centered care, he brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and community-focused medicine to our team.
Most recently, Manuel served as a Medical Provider with Landmark Home-Based Medical Care, where he provided in-home care for patients. His work included post-discharge visits to reduce hospital re-admissions, chronic disease management for conditions like COPD, CHF, and diabetes, and urgent home visits for acute concerns. He collaborated closely with nurses, social workers, and specialists to address both medical and social barriers to care.
How it works
Consultation
Determining the cause of a patient’s symptoms or abnormal tests is often the hardest part of treatment. We spend significant time simply talking at consultation. Quite often the diagnosis can only be made by careful listening and questioning.
Treatment
Rheumatology treatments fall broadly into two categories: inflammatory diseases and impaired mechanical processes. Treatment requires a careful risk-benefit analysis. Carefully discussing the options and obtaining patient preferences is essential in getting a plan in place.
Infusion
Our infusion center is an innovative alternative to long waits in cold impersonal hospitals. It is a place where patients can receive intravenous infusions or therapeutic injections in a safe, professional and comfortable environment.
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We’re here for you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for guidance, have questions about your health journey, or need personalized support our team is ready to help you feel your best. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
+1 860-432-8400
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