Physician Associate - Rheumatology

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY:

Provide comprehensive rheumatology care as a Physician Associate (PA). The PA functions as an independent and collaborative healthcare provider responsible for the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, education, and ongoing management of patients with rheumatologic diseases. The position supports high-quality patient care, clinical excellence, education, quality improvement, and divisional initiatives.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Clinical Care:

• Maintain clinical expertise in rheumatology and adhere to applicable regulatory, safety, and infection prevention standards.
• Evaluate and manage new and established rheumatology patients in outpatient settings.
• Obtain and document comprehensive patient histories, perform physical examinations, formulate assessments, and develop treatment plans.
• Order, interpret, and communicate diagnostic studies and laboratory results.
• Perform procedures within scope of practice and demonstrated competency.
• Prescribe medications and provide counseling regarding indications, risks, benefits, and monitoring requirements.
• Respond to patient and referring provider inquiries through telephone, electronic messaging, and other communication platforms.
• Provide triage and management recommendations for urgent clinical concerns.
• Coordinate care with physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other members of the healthcare team.
• Initiate referrals and consultations as appropriate.
• Complete accurate and timely documentation, billing, and other required medical record activities.

Patient Education and Care Coordination:

• Educate patients and families regarding diagnoses, treatment options, disease management, and preventive care.
• Promote health maintenance and self-management strategies across the continuum of care.
• Identify patient education needs and assist in developing educational resources and programs.
• Facilitate care transitions and coordinate services across inpatient, outpatient, and community settings.

Professional Consultation and Education:

• Serve as a clinical resource for nursing staff, trainees, and healthcare professionals within the institution.
• Participate in educational activities for staff, learners, patients, and community partners.
• Support a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to patient care.

Quality Improvement and Scholarly Activities:

• Participate in quality improvement, patient safety, and clinical practice initiatives within the division and department.
• Utilize evidence-based practice and incorporate current research findings into patient care.
• Contribute to divisional research, quality, and educational initiatives as appropriate.
• Maintain professional competency through continuing education and professional development activities.

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Support divisional and departmental goals, projects, and operational initiatives.
• Participate in committees, meetings, and other activities as assigned.
• Maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, staff, patients, and referring providers.
• Follow policies and procedures of University of Iowa Health Care, the Carver College of Medicine, and the Department of Internal Medicine.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

CLINICAL EXPECTATIONS:

The position is expected to provide eight (8) half-days of clinical service per week. Clinics are generally scheduled Monday through Friday; however, evening or weekend clinic sessions may be available.

The department intends to hire for one position as either an ARNP, requisition 26004730 or PA, requisition 26004731, based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. Please apply to the specific position for which you which to be considered or both.