For Daniel Erhardt, MD, medicine combines two things he has always valued: understanding the complexity of the human body and connecting with people in a meaningful way.
As a board-certified rheumatologist, Dr. Erhardt brings expertise in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions along with a deeply patient-centered approach to care. With seven years of private rheumatology practice experience in Colorado, he has helped patients navigate a wide range of complex rheumatic diseases. He says his interest in medicine began while studying human physiology in college.
“I loved learning how the human body works and how we can apply that understanding to help treat chronic disease,” he says. “At the same time, I’ve always loved connecting with people, so medicine became the perfect fit.”
Dr. Erhardt was drawn to rheumatology because it combines complex problem-solving with the opportunity to form long-term relationships with patients.
“Rheumatology is incredibly rewarding because these are chronic, often lifelong diseases, but treatment has advanced tremendously,” he says. “We now have targeted therapies that can truly change people’s lives.”
One of the things he enjoys most is helping patients regain confidence, mobility, and quality of life over time.
“I often meet patients when they’re struggling physically and emotionally,” he says. “Watching them become healthier, more active, and more like themselves again is one of the most fulfilling parts of what I do.”
Patients often describe Dr. Erhardt as approachable, empathetic, and easy to talk to. He believes patients should feel heard, supported, and actively involved in their care.
“I want patients to know they are in the driver’s seat,” he says. “My role is to educate, guide, and support patients so they can make informed decisions that feel right for them.”
Dr. Erhardt also believes trust and compassion are essential to good healthcare.
“We all have areas of our health we could improve,” he says. “I never want patients to feel judged or ashamed. Building trust and helping patients feel seen and understood leads to better long-term care and better outcomes.”
Dr. Erhardt is fluent in Spanish and values creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for all patients, including LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Erhardt enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors. A dedicated runner, he has completed the Boston Marathon three times. He also enjoys concerts, movies, pickleball, and spending time with his partner and friends.
Specialty Areas
Dr. Erhardt treats a wide range of rheumatologic, autoimmune, and musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Gout
- Lupus
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Scleroderma
- Vasculitis
- Connective tissue disorders
- Raynaud’s disease
- Chronic joint pain
- Knee, neck, and shoulder pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Myofascial pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Joint aspirations and injections, including small joints such as fingers and toes
Education and Certifications
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Fellowship — University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Center
Rheumatology
Aurora, CO
2019
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Residency — University of Utah Hospitals & Clinics
Internal Medicine
Salt Lake City, UT
2017
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Medical School — University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health
Doctor of Medicine
Madison, WI
2014
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Graduate School — University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health
Master of Public Health, Certificate in Global Health
Madison, WI
2010
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Undergraduate — University of Wisconsin - Madison
Bachelor of Arts, Biology and Spanish double major
Madison, WI
2008