Physician Assistant

Chevy Chase, MD – Full-time, Monday–Thursday (closed Fridays)

Pay

$120,000+ annually

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Life insurance
• 401K contributions
• Disability insurance
• Paid time off plus every Friday off
• Free parking at all sites
• Paid maternity and paternity leave
• Short-term disability, long-term disability, and accidental death and dismemberment insurance

About the role

The Physician Assistant provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment of patients with chronic and acute rheumatologic conditions under the supervision of ARA physicians. This role supports high-quality, patient-centered care through clinical assessments, diagnostic interpretation, medication management, and coordination of internal and external services.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and manage patients with common rheumatologic conditions, including but not limited to:
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Positive ANA workups
  • Straightforward Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
  • Osteoporosis
  • Gout and other crystalline arthropathies
  • Sjögren’s Syndrome
  • Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)
  • Lupus
  • Chronic neck and back pain
  • Soft tissue rheumatism (e.g., trigger finger, bursitis, tendonitis, epicondylitis, carpal tunnel syndrome)
  • Hypermobility syndrome
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Perform patient histories, physical examinations, assessments, and treatment plans in accordance with established protocols and scope of practice.
• Prescribe medications and perform office-based procedures as permitted by licensure, protocols, and available equipment.
• Order, review, and interpret diagnostic studies including laboratory tests, radiographs, and DEXA scans.
• Refer patients for appropriate internal and external services, including ultrasound, infusion therapy, physical therapy, and other diagnostic or treatment services.
• Provide consultation services related to infusion therapy for referring providers.
• Respond to phone calls, electronic messages, and clinical tasks from patients, physicians, and clinical staff in a timely and professional manner.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant medical documentation in the electronic medical record.
• Adhere to all organizational policies, clinical protocols, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Successful completion of an accredited Physician Assistant program.
• Current licensure as a Physician Assistant in the applicable state.
• Current approval by the Board of Medicine to perform medical acts.
• No prior rheumatology experience required; on-the-job training will be provided.
• Commitment to ongoing continuing education, including rheumatology-specific learning.

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and patient engagement skills.
• Solid diagnostic, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with physicians, clinical staff, and interdisciplinary teams.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed primarily in a clinical healthcare environment.
• May be exposed to bloodborne pathogens, physical hazards (e.g., needle sticks), and chemical hazards.
• Weekend or after-hours on-call responsibilities may be required on a limited basis.
• Physical demands include prolonged standing, walking, and sitting; bending, stooping, and stretching; and sufficient manual dexterity to operate clinical and office equipment.
• Must be able to push, pull, and lift up to 100 pounds to assist with patient mobility.
• Requires adequate hearing and vision to perform clinical assessments and documentation.