Rheumatologists, in addition to providing subspecialty care, are frequently called to treat general medical conditions in their patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Co-morbid medical problems are common in the RA population and may require a different approach from standard practice recommendations. In this paper, we review the evaluation and treatment of cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, gastrointestinal disease, depression, and metabolic bone disease in patients with RA. Appreciation of the unique interaction between arthritis and common medical co-morbidities may have a significant impact on management and outcomes of RA.