Richard Lai

MD, MBA, FACP, FACR

BOARD CERTIFIED: INTERNAL MEDICINE & RHEUMATOLOGY

Dr. Lai earned a medical degree from the University of SintCQ Eustatius School of Medicine in Cole Bay, St. Maarten.

He then spent one-year post-graduate in clinical research at Jerome Greene Sjogren’s Center at Johns Hopkins University before he completed his residency in internal medicine at Franklin Square Medical Center in Baltimore.

Dr. Lai then went on to complete his fellowship in rheumatology at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC.

Dr. Lai is known for his practical evidence-based approach to medicine. He specializes connective tissue diseases such as systemic lupus erythromatosus, Sjogren’s disease, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout and all other rheumatologic conditions.

Dr. Lai has participated in research assignments, abstracts and publications, and nonresearch-related academic activities. Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Lai has become a permanent fixture within the Great Falls community through leading and organizing Tai Chi and badminton clubs.

Schedule

Articles by Dr. Lai

What is ‘arthritis’? What kind of arthritis do I have?

Regular Activity in Midlife Spares Joints in WomenRegular Activity in Midlife Spares Joints in Women

Study finds protection especially for obese womenStudy finds protection especially for obese women

Heart and Lung Disease and Other Complications Start Early in Rheumatoid ArthritisHeart and Lung Disease and Other Complications Start Early in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent serious comorbidities.

What our patients say about Dr. Lai

Marilyn TookeMarilyn Tooke
03:15 08 May 23
I first met Dr. Lai, in Havre Mt. He came up there once a month for awhile. He’s a great Dr. and make’s you feel at ease. He’s been well educated. The last appointment I had I went to Stacy Johnson, and she was great too. They spend a lot of time with you, and do their best to help you. I can’t say enough good about MAC. The staff is very friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxing, and friendly too. I recommend if you need one of these kind of Doctor’s, to make an appointment with one of them, and I don’t think you would be disappointed.
vonnieb blomgrenvonnieb blomgren
20:34 04 May 23
I have seen Dr Lai for awhile now and have followed his moves. He seems to genuinely care about his patients and really listens to what we are saying to determine the best type of care to be given. He has validated my feelings and concerns where as other Drs give the impression that “I look fine therefore must be fine “ and just because my labs come back looking pretty normal doesn’t mean I am not having valid issues. Recently I have been dealing with Dr Bowman (in training) and he obviously has been trained by Dr Lai and seeks to provide the same kind of empathetic care! Dr Lai’s current nurse Vicky is helpful also… would definitely recommend this office.
Gary ThorsonGary Thorson
23:11 10 Apr 23
After 10 yrs of trying to get help Dr Iie solved my mystery in maybe 45 minutes. It is satisfying to talk with his staff and not get labeled or stripped of individuality. Pain is real. He will HELP
Ed CaffreyEd Caffrey
01:49 24 Feb 23
Hat's off to Dr Lai and the entire crew at MAC! Struggling with a chronic illness (Lupus) is no easy thing, but having Dr Lai as the "Quarterback" of my care team, that includes not only local Doctors/specialties, but also University of Washington/Seattle Doctors, has made my journey/battle one of hope, versus one of despair. From the smiles that I am met with when I check in, to the outstanding/professional care I receive throughout EVERY visit, to the willingness of Dr Lai to go beyond the routine in seeking avenues to better my condition.....simply the BEST health services that I have ever experienced.
linnette mosslinnette moss
22:26 26 Oct 22
Dr Lai and his team are amazing. Helpful, knowledgeable and I never feel like I’m fighting alone. The only complaint I have is they are so busy they can be hard to get ahold of.
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Dr. Lai's Locations

Great Falls

1400 29th St S.
Suite 218
Great Falls, MT 59405

Phone: 406-350-4600
Fax: 406-794-0555
Email: GreatFalls@MontanaArthritis.com

Hours
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Friday
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

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Helena

2600 Winne Ave
Suite D
Helena, MT 59601

Phone: 406-206-6015
Fax: 406-389-8940
Email: Helena@MontanaArthritis.com

Hours
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Friday
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

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Billings

100 Brookshire Blvd
Bldg 2, Suite 1
Billings, MT 59102

Phone:406-702-1327
Fax: 406-206-0105
Email: Billings@MontanaArthritis.com

Hours
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Friday
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Learn More