First, the provider should inform Ruth about her condition. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that is unfortunately incurable, so no pharmacological interventions, physical therapies, lifestyle changes, etc. or combination of the lot can fully make the disease go away at current.
Then discuss the medications. The goal of antirheumatic drugs like ibuprofen, DMARDs, and monoclonal antibody meds is to alleviate or minimize symptoms of RA and delaying its hallmark characteristics like bone deformity and the joint pain associated with the condition.
The provider should make sure to compassionately inform the patient about this information as re-learning about the condition and the medication being effective despite the disease persisting could be difficult for the patient.