Meet Your Physician
A Thoughtful Approach to Rheumatic Disease
Shu Cao, MD
Board-Certified Rheumatologist
Dr. Shu Cao is a board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, providing fluent care in both English and Mandarin. Approaching rheumatology with careful attention to detail and measured clinical reasoning, she is deeply committed to long-term patient partnerships. Prior to founding Great Neck Rheumatology, Dr. Cao managed highly active clinical panels in major academic medical centers and multiple clinics within an Ivy League-affiliated health system. She brings that same rigorous clinical standard to her independent Direct Specialty Care adult rheumatology practice in Great Neck, New York.
Clinical Background & Credentials
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Fellowship & Residency: University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine
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Training Sites: Tampa General Hospital, Moffitt Cancer Center, and James A. Haley VA Hospital
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Previous Practice: Penn Medicine–Princeton Health, New Jersey
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Medical Degree: Zhengzhou University School of Medicine
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Licensed to Practice: New York and New Jersey
Care Philosophy
Rheumatology is a field defined by complexity.
Many rheumatologic diseases, particularly autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases, do not present clearly at first. Symptoms may evolve over time. Laboratory findings do not always tell the full story.
Treatment decisions often require careful balancing of risk, benefit and long-term vision.
This type of care requires time – not only during a visit, but over the course of an ongoing partnership.
Great Neck Rheumatology was built to practice in a way that honors that reality.
Time as a Clinical Tool
In rheumatology, time is not a luxury. It is a diagnostic and therapeutic necessity.
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A careful history can change a diagnosis.
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A detailed discussion can change a treatment plan.
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A thoughtful pause can prevent unnecessary escalation.
By structuring this practice around longer visits, support between visits, and a manageable patient volume, time becomes a valuable part of care.
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Continuity Matters
Rheumatologic disease management is rarely solved in a single appointment.
It unfolds through observation, adjustment, and shared understanding.
Seeing the same physician at each visit allows subtle changes to be recognized early. It allows trust to build gradually. It allows decisions to be made in context rather than isolation.
Continuity is not simply convenient. It is clinically meaningful.
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Care Beyond the Appointment
Many important moments in rheumatologic care occur between visits:
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A new symptom that raises concern
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A medication side effect
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A possible flare
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A laboratory result requiring interpretation
This practice is intentionally structured to address these moments as part of ongoing care.
Patients are supported within a defined framework that is designed to provide continuity and reassurance.
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Relationship Centered Care
Rheumatologic illness can affect daily function, long-term plans, and personal identity. It often requires adjustment – not only medically, but practically and emotionally.
Dr. Cao values steady partnership with her patients. She aims to be a physician who is:
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Thoughtful in evaluation
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Clear in communication
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Measured in decision-making
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Consistent in follow-through
Care is not rushed. Questions are welcomed. Concerns are taken seriously.
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A Dedicated Partnership
Experience unhurried, compassionate, and personalized care in Adult Rheumatology.
Your health deserves undivided attention.