Some things I find it helpful to clarify with my doctor:
Being specific about what I need help with and what is most urgent to me.
What is their goal in treatment? Do they utilize Treat-to-Target? "Please explain to me the target and how we measure progress."
Help me understand how long it may take for new drugs or treatments to work.
When do I need to contact you if things are not getting better, or are actually getting worse? Or if side effects are bothersome.
What complimentary treatments do they recommend? Specific referrals: PT, massage, yoga, cupping, acupuncture, K-Tape, etc.
Be aware, doctors can't just cure RD. They can make our lives better, but other than high dose steroids (NOT a good long term choice), most of their treatments take 1-6 months to tell if they will even work. Pay attention to the actions, such as PT and self care that are recommended. It's what you have power to do for yourself.
I've had really good luck on follow up appointments by prioritizing what is really bothering me the most - for instance - in the beginning I had such widespread pain it was difficult to prioritize anything. As treatment went on I realized my hip pain held me back the most - it disturbed my sleep, increased fatigue; and limited my daily mobility and endurance. At the next appointment I started with, "I really need your help with my hips. They are really holding me back." We talked about other joints too, but I swear, he really seemed to appreciate my being specific about what was disturbing my life the most. And offered me some specifics to help my hips then.