Physician Assistant

Company Description

Founded in 2014 as Dr. Shenoy's CARE, RheumaCARE has grown to become the largest standalone Rheumatology Centre in the country. We are committed to expanding our reach and bringing world-class rheumatologic care across India. Our mission is to help patients live pain-free by providing state-of-the-art, cost-effective treatment for rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders through a holistic approach. Our comprehensive services include the diagnosis and management of autoimmune conditions, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal disorders, supported by an in-house autoimmune laboratory. RheumaCARE is also at the forefront of clinical research, integrating the latest medical breakthroughs into practice, ensuring the best treatments for our patients.

Role Description

This is a full-time on-site role for a Physician Assistant located in Vizag. The Physician Assistant will support rheumatologists in providing comprehensive care to patients, including conducting physical exams, diagnosing and managing autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions, and developing treatment plans. The role also involves assisting in clinical procedures, interpreting laboratory results, educating patients on managing their conditions, and contributing to ongoing clinical research activities.

Willing to come to Kochi for training.

Qualifications

• Experience in conducting physical exams and diagnosing rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions
• Skills in developing and implementing treatment plans
• Competence in assisting with clinical procedures and interpreting laboratory results
• Strong patient education and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment
• Relevant healthcare qualifications Pharm D, BAMS, BHMS
• Experience in rheumatology or related fields is a plus
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with medical advancements
• Proficiency in using healthcare information systems
• Valid Indian license to practice.

Their job description typically includes the following responsibilities:

1. Medication Management and Drug Information:

Assessing patients (Clinical Examination) with Rheumatic Conditions and should have immense knowledge on immunosuppressants, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, pain management medications, and supplements. Collaborating with rheumatologists and other healthcare providers to develop

personalized medication plans for patients, taking into account disease severity, comorbidities, and patient preferences. Monitoring and adjusting medication regimens based on treatment response and potential side effects.

2. Patient Education:

Educating patients about their prescribed medications, including proper administration, potential side effects, and drug interactions. Patients should also be counseled about the disease and the need for long term drug therapy.

Ensuring patients understand the importance of adherence to their treatment plans to achieve optimal outcomes.

- Frequent tele - follow-up calls are done to ensure medication adherence and regular follow-up. This happens both in OP revisit patients as well as for clinic patients.

3. Medication Safety:

Conducting medication reconciliations to prevent adverse drug interactions and ensure patient safety.

Monitoring for potential drug-drug interactions and recommending appropriate interventions.

4. Therapeutic Monitoring:

Regularly assessing and monitoring disease activity, laboratory values, and clinical indicators to evaluate treatment efficacy. Collaborating with healthcare providers to make adjustments to treatment plans as necessary.

5. Performing Procedures

Assist in or independently perform minor procedures, such as joint aspirations, intra-articular corticosteroid injections, or the administration of biologic infusions. Ensure proper sterile techniques and patient comfort during procedures.

6. Adverse Event Management:

Identifying and managing medication-related adverse events, including reporting and documenting any serious adverse reactions. Providing recommendations for managing side effects or switching medications when needed.

7. Handling helpline:

Patients will call the helpline with various queries, such as concerns about side effects, reporting lab values, disease flare-ups, seeking treatment summaries, and more. These calls must be addressed promptly and professionally. If the answer is not immediately clear, seek assistance from senior consultants or relevant healthcare professionals.

All interactions should be thoroughly documented, including the patient's concern, the response provided, and any follow-up actions required. This ensures continuity of care and accurate tracking of patient inquiries.

8. Research and Quality Improvement:

Participating in clinical research and quality improvement initiatives related to rheumatology medications and patient outcomes. Staying updated on the latest advancements in rheumatology pharmacotherapy.

9. Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration:

Collaborating closely with rheumatologists, nurses, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.

10. Documentation:

Maintaining accurate and thorough patient records, including medication histories, interventions, and progress notes.

11. Continuing Education:

Pursuing ongoing education and training in rheumatology pharmacotherapy to stay current with emerging treatments and best practices. Attending ward-rounds and morning classes.