Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant (NP/PA)
Position Summary
The Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant provides comprehensive care for patients with autoimmune, inflammatory, and musculoskeletal diseases. Working collaboratively with rheumatologists and multidisciplinary care teams, this role focuses on evaluation, diagnosis, and long-term management of chronic rheumatologic conditions using evidence-based, patient-centered care.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Evaluate and manage patients with rheumatologic and autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, gout, vasculitis, osteoporosis, and connective tissue diseases
- Perform comprehensive histories, physical examinations, and ongoing patient assessments
- Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with supervising rheumatologists
- Prescribe and manage disease-modifying therapies, biologic agents, and supportive medications consistent with scope of practice
- Interpret laboratory studies, imaging results, and bone density tests relevant to rheumatologic care
- Perform office-based procedures such as joint aspiration and injection, consistent with training and privileges
- Provide patient and family education regarding disease processes, medication management, and lifestyle modification
- Coordinate care with primary care providers, infusion services, orthopedics, nephrology, pulmonology, and dermatology
- Monitor treatment response and manage medication side effects
- Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation
- Participate in quality improvement, patient safety, and outcomes initiatives
- Comply with all regulatory, accreditation, and professional standards
Qualifications
- Graduate of an accredited Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant program
- Current NP or PA certification and state licensure
- Eligibility for credentialing and privileging
- DEA registration or eligibility
- Prior experience or training in rheumatology, internal medicine, or chronic disease management preferred
Skills and Competencies
- Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills
- Knowledge of rheumatologic disease processes and medical therapies
- Ability to manage chronic and complex conditions longitudinally
- Excellent communication and patient education skills
- Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
- Commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care
Work Environment
- Outpatient rheumatology clinics with possible inpatient consultation responsibilities
- Schedule may include clinic hours and limited call depending on practice structure
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, and move throughout clinical environments
- Manual dexterity for musculoskeletal examinations and joint procedures
- Visual and auditory acuity sufficient for patient assessment and interpretation of diagnostic data