Patient Population Demographics: The rheumatology clinic serves a diverse patient population from Denver, surrounding regions, and out-of-state referrals. Patients range from adults with common rheumatologic conditions to those with complex autoimmune diseases. The patient demographic includes a mix of local residents and individuals seeking specialized care from across the United States.
Types of Services/Procedures Performed:
Comprehensive rheumatologic care, including diagnosis and management of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases
Diverse caseload including autoimmune arthritis, vasculitis, osteoporosis
Designated scleroderma center treating 200+ patients annually
Advanced musculoskeletal ultrasound for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes
Joint injections and other minimally invasive procedures
Collaborative care with specialists in pulmonology, cardiology, infectious diseases, and neurology for managing complex cases
The rheumatology practice treats virtually every condition except for fibromyalgia.
Call Schedule/Coverage Expectations:
Call rotation (Telephone): 1:4. The physician will provide 1-2 weeks of night float call per month.
Call is supported by a robust nursing team that handles initial triage and basic care
Call from home is generally limited to managing patient phone queries, coordinating with nursing staff, and occasional consultations with other physicians. The nursing staff handles initial triage and many patient inquiries.
Call rotation (Inpatient): 1:4. Physicians can take in-house call one night per week from 5pm-8am to cover our 15-bed inpatient unit. Physicians are limited to 2 shifts per month.
During call shifts, physicians will:
Evaluate new admissions and consults coming through the ER
Address any issues or concerns from the nursing staff overnight
Make rounds in the morning to check on patients
Call volumes vary but physicians generally expect to see 1-4 new patients or issues per overnight shift requiring evaluation and treatment planning. Backup from other specialists is always available by phone for consultation as needed. Daytime responsibilities are not expected on call days for rest and recuperation. This schedule allows for excellent work-life balance while still providing necessary inpatient support.
The inpatient call is compensated.
Clinical Support Services Available:
Strong and experienced nursing support staff, including infusion nurses and clinical pharmacists
In-house infusion clinic for administering treatments such as biologics and other intravenous therapies
Comprehensive diagnostic and treatment facilities equipped with the latest technology
Access to multidisciplinary teams for collaborative patient care, including weekly case conferences and multidisciplinary meetings
Opportunities for Specialization/Focused Practice:
Dedicated musculoskeletal ultrasound clinic for providers with relevant training
Significant opportunities for research and specialization in autoimmune diseases, interdisciplinary care, and advanced diagnostic techniques
Potential to develop and lead specialized clinics or research programs based on personal interests and expertise
Our rheumatology practice offers several specialty clinics and programs:
Scleroderma Center: Dedicated to treating the 200+ patients in our region with scleroderma. Physicians focus on this condition.
Interstitial Lung Disease Program: Evaluates 500+ consults annually for conditions like IPF and CTD-ILD. Expertise in pulmonary rheumatology.
Bone Health Clinic: Overseen by our NP, focuses on osteoporosis management, Prolia/Denosumab injections, and fracture liaison services.
Early Arthritis Clinic: Focuses on conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, with the goal of achieving remission through aggressive treatment.
Gout Clinic: Dedicated time for evaluation and management of acute and chronic gout patients.
EDS/Hypermobility Clinic: Focuses on joint hypermobility syndromes like hEDS, with expertise in chronic pain management.
Lupus Program – Aims to learn more about the causes, treatment and prevention of lupus. The goal of treatment is to control inflammation and prevent damage to vital organs.
Physicians can choose to participate in one or more specialty areas that align with their interests such as scleroderma, pulmonary rheumatology, or bone health. Dedicated time is allocated weekly for each clinic.
Teaching/Academic Responsibilities:
Teaching residents and medical students from St. Joseph's Hospital and the University of Colorado Denver
Participation in educational conferences, Grand Rounds, and didactic sessions
Opportunity to mentor fellows and junior faculty, contribute to curriculum development, and engage in continuing medical education programs
Potential for academic appointment and involvement in university-based educational initiatives
Research Requirements or Opportunities:
Extensive opportunities for conducting and participating in clinical and translational research
Support from experienced researchers and access to institutional resources and funding opportunities
Collaboration with pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and other research institutions
Ability to adjust clinical duties to accommodate research activities and focus on areas of personal interest
There is an option for to be a full-time physician scientist. The physician will be allotted ½ - 1 day of clinic.