Full Job Description
Job Summary:
Nephrology Physician Assistants are healthcare professionals who assist Nephrologists in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases.
They work closely with patients, often developing long-term relationships, and play a key role in the management of chronic kidney disease and kidney transplantation.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Assess patients’ medical histories and performing physical examinations
- Order and interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and imaging studies
- Assist in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney-related disorders and diseases
- Manage patients undergoing dialysis treatment
- Monitor patients’ response to treatment and adjust treatment plans as necessary
- Provide education to patients and their families about kidney disease, treatment options, and lifestyle changes
- Perform procedures such as kidney biopsies and placement of dialysis catheters under the supervision of a nephrologist
- Provide pre-and post-operative care for patients receiving kidney transplants
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals including dieticians, pharmacists, and social workers to coordinate patient care
- Document patient care and maintaining accurate medical records
Qualifications:
- Medical knowledge and expertise in nephrology, including kidney diseases, dialysis management, hypertension, and kidney transplantation.
- Physical assessment skills to accurately diagnose and treat patients with kidney diseases and related conditions.
- Communication skills to effectively interact with patients, explaining complex medical concepts in layman’s terms and instilling trust in the treatment plans.
- Proficiency in using medical equipment and technology relevant to nephrology to perform tests, analyze results, and monitor patient progress.
- Ability to collaborate and work efficiently with a team of healthcare professionals, including nephrologists, nurses, dietitians, and social workers to provide optimal patient care.
- Empathy and interpersonal skills to connect with patients, understand their concerns and fears, and provide emotional support along with medical care.
- Problem-solving skills to make quick decisions in emergency situations, and to design effective treatment plans for complex cases.
- Continued interest in learning and staying updated with advancements in nephrology to improve patient care and treatment outcomes.
Education and Experience:
- Current state licensure as a Physician Assistant
- NCCPA (National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants) certification
- Previous experience in Nephrology or a related field
- Excellent communication and patient care skills
- Ability to make decisions in high-pressure situations
- Strong knowledge of kidney diseases and their treatments
- Ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team