Advanced Practice Provider (APP) - Rheumatology

UnitedHealth Group Inc.•Colorado Springs, CO

29d•$107,723 - $193,315•Onsite

About The Position

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together. The Advanced Practice Provider (APP) in Rheumatology is a key member of the clinical team, delivering comprehensive care to patients with rheumatologic conditions. This role combines clinical expertise, patient-centered care, and effective collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. The APP is responsible for assessing, diagnosing, managing, and educating patients with musculoskeletal and autoimmune diseases, ensuring high-quality care throughout their treatment journey.

Requirements

Master's or Doctoral degree from an accredited Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant program
Current, unrestricted licensure as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Physician Assistant (PA) in the state of practice
Board certification by a recognized national body (e.g., ANCC, NCCPA)
Advanced knowledge of common rheumatologic diseases, including pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and treatment options
Experience performing joint injections and aspirations
Familiarity with musculoskeletal ultrasound
Ability to manage complex patients with chronic autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions

Responsibilities

Conduct thorough evaluations, including history-taking, physical exams, and diagnostic testing
Diagnose and manage conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, and spondyloarthropathies
Review and interpret lab results, imaging, and other diagnostic tests
Develop and manage individualized treatment plans in collaboration with rheumatologists and the healthcare team
Prescribe medications (DMARDs, biologics, corticosteroids) per evidence-based guidelines
Monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust plans as needed
Perform joint injections, aspirations, and musculoskeletal ultrasound as appropriate
Coordinate advanced imaging or referrals for specialized procedures
Provide clear education on diagnosis, treatment options, lifestyle changes, and self-management
Empower patients to manage symptoms and make informed treatment choices
Oversee long-term follow-up for chronic rheumatologic conditions, ensuring screening and preventative care
Address flare-ups and complications promptly
Work closely with rheumatologists, nurses, medical assistants, physical therapists, and other providers
Participate in team meetings and case reviews
Liaise between patients and specialists for multidisciplinary care
Coordinate care transitions for hospitalizations or urgent interventions
Document patient encounters accurately in the EHR system
Update treatment plans, medication lists, and clinical notes in a timely manner
Adhere to clinical guidelines, protocols, and regulations
Participate in quality improvement initiatives
Stay current with advances in rheumatology
Attend conferences, CME activities, and workshops
Support and educate less experienced APPs and clinical staff
Share insights from ongoing learning