Dr Wells listens patiently and provides helpful feedback and information. She is very kind and approachable. She makes me feel comfortable in the visit. I’m glad she is one of my providers!

November 18, 2025

Dr. Wells always takes the time to ask about any concerns, and makes sure the side effects from medicines are minimal, and talks through any potential side effects for new meds. She is very compassionate, and cares about her patients.

June 22, 2025

Dr. Wells is an excellent Medical Provider. Thank you for all you do Dr. Wells!

June 6, 2025

I appreciate Dr Wells in many ways. She has taken extra time for me, been compassionate when I desperately needed it and is very thorough in my care. I am grateful to be her patient.

May 23, 2025

Dr. Wells always does a great job! I feel comfortable and at ease and well taken care of when I see her. I’m grateful for her.

April 16, 2025

Dr Wells covered my situation very throughly. Glad to have her on my team

March 28, 2025

Dr. Well's is a patient person and cares about her patients. Very informative and nice personality.

February 26, 2025

Dr. Wells is a very knowledgeable and caring person. I have great confidence in her giving me the best medical treatment. A+

January 6, 2025

I loved the fact that she listened to me. She explained the tests she wanted to run and why. She explained options for medications and which medications she was choosing and why. I’m was very happy with my first meeting with Dr. Wells and I would recommend her to my family and friends.

December 31, 2024

Dr Wells is the best! She listens to concerns and takes them seriously. She also takes your overall health into consideration

November 20, 2024

Dr. Wells goes above and beyond to help patients like myself. It seems like most doctors nowadays are all about just prescribing whatever and moving on, but not Dr. Wells. She takes the time to understand your problems and talks with you to find the best solution. She is such an amazing doctor.

October 17, 2024

Very thorough and competent. Always listening to patient and willing to take action when necessary. I am so grateful for the help she is providing to alleviate hip pain. Thank you Dr. Wells!

September 30, 2024

Dr. Wells is always so kind and very professional. I highly recommend her to anyone having arthritis pain.

September 16, 2024

She is concerned about my problem, after discussing this I think we both felt better! Wonderful doctor.

August 22, 2024

Dr. Wells and her staff are very caring and knowledgeable. I feel safe and well cared for under Dr. Wells.

August 21, 2024

Melissa Wells always shows that she cares. And that your health is her best interest. She is very knowledgeable. I am so lucky to have found her

May 3, 2024

She listened carefully and was thorough. She was kind and gave her professional thoughts while including my thoughts and opinions as well.

May 1, 2024

Dr. Wells spends time with a patient, asking questions and listening to their answers. She doesn't make the appointment feel rushed.

April 11, 2024

I always feel so much better after seeing Dr. Wells. She is kind and reassuring as I deal with RA pain. By far the best!

April 10, 2024

I gave full confidence in Dr Wells. She listens carefully and makes recommendations based on my input as to pain medications etc. she is a wonderful asset to McFarland

March 17, 2024

Got into my doctor timely, she is very efficient and thorough and Pleasant

March 7, 2024

Dr. Wells was very thorough with the examination and explained her thoughts in a way to easily comprehend.

February 8, 2024

Wonderful team. Made me feel comfortable and answered all my questions.

February 5, 2024

Dr. Wells is very professional and listens to my symptoms & concerns very carefully. Explained the results of test she ordered thoughly.

January 12, 2024

Dr. Wells always makes me feel comfortable and heard. She is very easy to talk to and explains things in an easy to understand way. I can’t say enough good things about her and I would highly recommend her, any day, any time.

January 3, 2024

About

About Dr. Chiston

Melissa Chiston, MD, provides comprehensive rheumatologic care for patients experiencing arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and other inflammatory conditions. As part of McFarland Clinic’s Rheumatology department, Dr. Chiston brings specialized training in the evaluation and long-term management of complex diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Dr. Chiston is committed to partnering with patients to understand their symptoms, create individualized treatment plans, and support better mobility and daily function. She focuses on evidence-based therapies and clear communication, helping patients navigate chronic conditions with confidence. Dr. Chiston is pleased to offer rheumatology services in Ames and welcomes new patients.

Joined McFarland Clinic

June 2021

Education & Professional Certification

Certifications

American Board of Internal Medicine - Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine - Rheumatology

Education

University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS

Doctor of Medicine

Drake University, Des Moines, IA

Bachelors of Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology

Residency

Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN

Internal Medicine

Fellowship

Duke University, Durham, NC

Rheumatology

Professional Societies

American College of Rheumatology, Fellow Member of the Quality Measures Subcommittee
American College of Physicians, Associate Member

Professional & Personal Interests

Leadership Roles

Department Chair, McFarland Clinic Rheumatology

Resources

Arthritis Causes and Types

What causes joint pain, and how can it be treated? Dr. Melissa (Wells) Chiston has the answers.

Play Video

Melissa Chiston, MD

Primary Clinic

South Ames Office

Patient Testimonials