Reporting to the Assistant Clinical Director and to the collaborating physician, the Physician Assistant (PA) will work in both our ambulatory Rheumatology clinic settings (Boston & Waltham) and will be responsible for the care of patients in the practice in accordance with the rules and regulations of Massachusetts governing Physician Assistant practice. Provides access for patients into the clinic and coordinates patient care throughout the care continuum - including comprehensive physical examinations, coordination of tests, procedures and consultations, implement therapy/treatment plans, perform patient education and communicate with referring providers. Promotes a collaborative relationship and effort between the medical staff, professional nurses and administrative staff, to ensure continuity of patient care and efficient use of resources.
Principal duties and responsibilities:
The Rheumatology PA provides direct care to patients with rheumatologic conditions in collaboration with the physician and entire rheumatology team.
Performs full history, physical exam, and applies advance practice knowledge to develop a care plan for the patient
Follows and manages patients (both in collaboration with MD and independently), with specific focus on patients with crystalline arthritis (gout and pseudogout), osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Performs specialized procedures particular to the select population mutually agreed upon with the collaborating physician. Specialized procedures include:
Arthrocentesis of small, intermediate and large joints
Intra-articular steroid injections
Prescribes medications in compliance with regulations and protocols
Monitors labs in patients who are taking medications that require regular blood work
Is responsible for checking appropriate diagnostic labs and screening labs before starting medications
Is responsible for follow-up care of patients, in collaboration with other staff including nurses and patient service coordinators. In particular, is responsible for monitoring lab results, responding to patient phone calls and responding to patient messages via the electronic health portal
Helps to triage requests for urgent new patient consultations. Helps to evaluate urgent new patient consultations especially those patients with mono articular arthritis who may require urgent arthrocentesis
Helps to evaluate patients who may need urgent follow up (both in collaboration with MD and independently)
Collaborates with medical staff and physicians to plan, implement and evaluate pertinent change in practice and health care delivery, thus facilitating a comprehensive plan of care
Facilitates patient movement through the system and efficient use of resources through interdepartmental collaboration
Provides consultation to both nurses and serves as a resource to staff in area(s) of expertise
Maintains and practices in accord with practitioner guidelines per state and hospital regulations.
Educational
Participates in Division of Rheumatology educational meetings including weekly Grand Rounds
Maintains the standards and educational requirements specific to the position and licensure
Identifies own learning needs and goals
Maintains and updates clinical knowledge and skills based on current health care practice/research
Completes all hospital requirements for FPPE and OPPE
Qualifications
Qualifications for Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Graduated from an accredited school of nursing as Nurse Practitioner.
Requires current licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as a Nurse Practitioner.
2 years of ambulatory experience as an NP, ideally in a rheumatology clinic setting, is preferred but not required
Reasons to Choose MGH
Massachusetts General Hospital is the #1 hospital in New England based on U.S. News Best Hospitals for 2023-2024
Collaborate with the other providers in medicine to provide quality care to our patients
Lucrative benefits and generous paid time off
About Mass General Hospital
Mass General Hospital is a world-renowned hospital that provides the highest quality care to patients. We are a leader in medical research and education, and we are committed to providing our employees with a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Our culture is one of collaboration, innovation, and diversity. We believe that by working together, we can achieve great things. We are also committed to providing our employees with a work-life balance that allows them to thrive both professionally and personally.
If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career in medicine, then Mass General Hospital is the place for you. We offer a variety of career opportunities, so you can find a position that fits your interests and skills. We also offer several benefits, so you can be sure that you are well-compensated for your hard work.
EEO Statement
Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.
