Rocky Mountain Infectious Diseases (RMID) offers a unique and fulfilling clinical environment for physicians specializing in infectious diseases. The practice manages a diverse and challenging patient population, presenting opportunities to treat rare and complex pathologies often associated with the region’s distinctive geography. Supported by a highly skilled clinical team and state-of-the-art facilities, providers can deliver exceptional care through a wide range of services, including advanced wound care, infusion therapies, and specialized treatments for conditions such as HIV and hepatitis C. With minimal call requirements, robust support services, and opportunities for teaching and focused practice, RMID ensures its physicians enjoy both professional growth and an excellent quality of life.
Patient Population and Demographics
The patient population served by RMID encompasses a diverse array of cases, often reflective of the unique topography of the region. The practice manages cases of tularemia, leprosy, hantavirus, Whipple disease, HIV, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and even bubonic plague. These rare and challenging pathologies provide physicians with opportunities to work on conditions typically seen only in textbooks.
Services and Procedures Performed
The scope of practice includes the treatment of complex infections, wound care, travel medicine, HIV/AIDS management, and hepatitis C therapies. The clinic offers an infusion center for antibiotic therapies and maintains a robust outpatient wound care program.
Call Schedule and Coverage Expectations
Call responsibilities are minimal and distributed evenly among the team, with a 1:4 or potentially 1:5 schedule. Weekends require rounding on assigned patients but no admitting duties. The use of midlevel providers in the call rotation further reduces the burden on physicians.
Electronic Medical Records System
RMID utilizes Cerner for electronic medical records, complemented by Dragon dictation software. Providers appreciate the streamlined workflow, which enables them to focus on patient care rather than administrative tasks.
Opportunities for Specialization and Focused Practice
Providers have opportunities to pursue special interests within infectious diseases, supported by the diversity of cases and a supportive team environment.
Clinical Support Services
The practice is well-supported by an experienced team, including nurses skilled in infusion therapies and wound care. The onsite lab enhances diagnostic efficiency, while the clinic's staff ensures seamless patient experiences.
Teaching and Academic Responsibilities
Physicians at RMID engage in teaching activities, including mentoring physician assistants, family practice residents, and pharmacy residents. This creates opportunities to shape the next generation of healthcare providers while fostering a culture of academic excellence.
Research Requirements or Opportunities
While research is not a primary focus, providers interested in academic contributions can explore avenues for participating in infectious disease studies.
Integrated Behavioral Health Services
Behavioral health services are not directly integrated into the practice but can be accessed through the hospital's support network.
Team Composition
The RMID team comprises four board-certified infectious disease physicians, two of whom are partners, along with a nurse practitioner (NP) integrated into the practice. This cohesive group is supported by a dedicated staff, including experienced registered nurses (RNs) and medical assistants (MAs) who excel in patient-centered wound care and infusion services. The clinic also employs in-house administrative and billing staff, ensuring seamless operations.
Practice Culture and Values
RMID fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture focused on patient welfare and clinical excellence. The team shares a commitment to providing high-quality care and mentorship. This ethos extends to their engagement with patients and staff, creating a workplace environment where turnover is minimal and staff typically remain with the practice for five years or more.
Interprofessional Collaboration
The practice emphasizes strong working relationships, both within the clinic and with the hospital. Physicians collaborate effectively with hospitalists and general surgeons, who often consult the RMID team before undertaking procedures. This collegial atmosphere extends to interactions with intensivists and other hospital staff.
Physician Longevity and Stability
The practice's stability is a key feature, with long-serving physicians such as Dr. Mark Dowell, the founder, and others who have embraced the balance and lifestyle RMID offers. This longevity underscores the rewarding professional environment and the strong sense of community within the practice.
Staff-to-Provider Ratio
RMID ensures its physicians are well-supported by maintaining an optimal staff-to-provider ratio. This ensures smooth clinic operations and allows providers to focus on delivering the highest level of care.