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 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
