Internal Medicine Consultant Physician

Job Description

Job Summary

The Internal Medicine Physician, will play a critical role in the General Medical and Surgical Services department. This position is pivotal in providing comprehensive healthcare to adult patients, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of internal organ-related conditions. The internist will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality patient care tailored to the unique needs of the Nigerian population.

As a specialist in adult medicine, the Internal Medicine Physician will manage complex medical cases, often involving chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. This role requires a deep understanding of the interactions between different organ systems, as well as the ability to coordinate care among various specialists when necessary. The physician will also be responsible for conducting thorough examinations, interpreting diagnostic tests, and developing personalized treatment plans that emphasize patient education and preventive care.

In addition to direct patient care, the Internal Medicine Physician will contribute to the development of clinical protocols and guidelines that enhance the quality of care provided by the department. This includes staying informed about the latest medical advancements and integrating evidence-based practices into daily operations. The physician will also engage in community outreach initiatives aimed at promoting health awareness and disease prevention, thereby improving overall public health outcomes.

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to continuous professional development. They should be adept at managing a diverse patient population and navigating the complexities of healthcare delivery in Nigeria. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, the Internal Medicine Physician will help to cultivate a culture of excellence within the General Medical and Surgical Services department.

Key Responsibilities

The Internal Medicine Physician will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Conducting comprehensive patient assessments through detailed medical histories and physical examinations.
• Diagnosing and managing acute and chronic illnesses, including complex cases involving multiple comorbidities.
• Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans based on clinical guidelines and patient preferences.
• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, such as blood work, imaging studies, and other relevant evaluations.
• Prescribing medications and monitoring their effects, adjusting treatment regimens as necessary.
• Providing preventive care services, including immunizations and health screenings.
• Educating patients about their health conditions and promoting lifestyle modifications to enhance overall well-being.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, including specialists, nurses, and allied health staff, to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date medical records by legal and ethical standards.
• Participating in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient care and safety.
• Engaging in continuous professional development through attending workshops, conferences, and other educational opportunities.
• Contributing to research and clinical trials as appropriate, enhancing the department's reputation in academic medicine.
• Mentoring and supervising junior medical staff and interns, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Participating in departmental meetings and committees to discuss clinical practices, policies, and patient care strategies.
• Engaging with community health initiatives to promote health awareness and disease prevention among the population.

Main Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient assessments and develop treatment plans.
• Diagnose and manage chronic and acute illnesses.
• Order and interpret diagnostic tests.
• Prescribe and monitor medications.
• Provide preventive care services.
• Educate patients on health management and disease prevention.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives.
• Engage in continuous professional development.
• Mentor junior staff and interns.
• Contribute to research and clinical trials.
• Attend departmental meetings and committees.
• Participate in community health initiatives.
• Uphold ethical and professional standards in all interactions.

Equality and Diversity

• Act as lead for Equality & Diversity in the department to ensure the development and effective implementation of a strategy, set of policies, procedures and monitoring and control systems are in place.

Personal and Staff Development

• Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
• Work with the Recruitment Manager to establish connections with appropriate local, international and online communities to nurture a pipeline of talent to support the growth of the company.
• Responsible for development of high potential employees, providing a structured approach to mentoring and developing critical talent at all levels of management.

Communications And Working Relationships

The Internal Medicine Physician will interact with a variety of stakeholders, including:

• Patients and their families, providing education and support regarding health conditions and treatment options.
• Medical and nursing staff, collaborating on patient care and treatment plans.
• Specialists and allied health professionals, coordinating care for complex cases.
• Administrative staff, ensuring smooth operations within the department.
• Community health organizations, engaging in outreach and education initiatives.
• Regulatory bodies, adhering to standards and guidelines for medical practice.
• Professional associations, participating in networking and continuing education opportunities.
• Academic institutions, collaborating on research and training initiatives.
• Local and national health authorities, contributing to public health strategies.
• Peer physicians, sharing knowledge and best practices in patient care.
• Support staff, ensuring efficient clinic operations and patient flow.

Line Management

The Internal Medicine Physician will have the following line management responsibilities:

• Supervise and mentor junior medical staff, including residents and interns.
• Conduct performance evaluations for direct reports, providing constructive feedback and guidance.
• Facilitate training and development opportunities for team members.
• Ensure adherence to departmental policies and procedures.
• Promote a culture of teamwork and collaboration within the department.
• Address performance issues and implement corrective actions as necessary.
• Lead by example, demonstrating professionalism and ethical behavior.
• Participate in recruitment and selection processes for new staff.
• Foster an environment of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Support succession planning within the department.

Organizational Responsibilities

The Internal Medicine Physician will be responsible for:

• Upholding the mission and values of the healthcare organization.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Participating in organizational strategic planning and decision-making processes.
• Contributing to the development and implementation of clinical protocols and guidelines.
• Engaging in quality assurance and performance improvement initiatives.
• Promoting patient safety and risk management practices.
• Collaborating with leadership to enhance the overall quality of care.
• Supporting community health initiatives and outreach programs.
• Participating in organizational committees and workgroups.
• Advocating for patient-centered care and community health needs.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Medical degree from an accredited institution.

Completion of a residency in internal medicine.

Fellowship certification in internal medicine, registrable on the specialist register with the Medical and Dental council of Nigeria.

Valid medical license to practice in Nigeria.

Evidence of commitment to continuing professional

Development

Experience

Minimum of 5 years of clinical experience in internal medicine.

Strong knowledge of adult health issues and disease management.

Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Proficiency in using electronic medical records and other healthcare technologies.

Familiarity with the healthcare landscape in Nigeria, including cultural sensitivities and challenges.

Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience in mentoring or supervising staff.

Management and Leadership

Supervise and mentor junior medical staff, including residents and interns.

Conduct performance evaluations for direct reports, providing constructive feedback and guidance.

Facilitate training and development opportunities for team members.

Ensure adherence to departmental policies and procedures.

Promote a culture of teamwork and collaboration within the department.

Upholding the mission and values of the healthcare organization.

Ensuring compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.

Participating in organizational strategic planning and decision-making processes.

Contributing to the development and implementation of clinical protocols and guidelines.

Shares the AMCE’s vision and values

Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care

Personal attributes

Professional attitude towards work

Shares the AMCE’s vision

Proactive and organised

Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care

Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues peers 

Is supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members

Commitment to caring for others

Ability to adapt to living in a new country and new culture accordingly

High levels of honesty and integrity

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.