FAMILY PRACTICE MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Tule River Indian Health Center Inc•Porterville, CA

12d

About The Position

The Family Practice Medical Director is a physician who, under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, leads primary care programs and oversees clinical and administrative functions while delivering culturally sensitive care to Native American and underserved communities in the CHSDA area. The role combines clinical practice with administrative and strategic oversight to support high-quality, efficient care that meets regulatory and quality standards. Duties are often divided between approximately 60% administrative work and 40% clinical work. The Medical Director provides primary care at TRIHCI facilities, supervises and develops medical staff and contract providers, oversees the organization’s healthcare program and quality assurance processes, and works with clinic administration on operational initiatives. The role includes monitoring care quality and outcomes, maintaining regulatory compliance, participating in program reviews and quality improvement, and coordinating referrals and hospital admissions as needed. The position requires effective communication and rapport with patients and families, with sensitivity to the cultures, traditions, and values of the Indian community. The Medical Director is expected to understand TRIHCI’s objectives, support its health programs, and help develop and maintain community relations. The work is based in a standard health-center office environment with direct patient contact and movement throughout the health center. The clinical setting has potential exposure to blood, body fluids, infectious waste, chemicals, biologicals, and toxicants.

Requirements

Valid medical degree from an accredited School of Medicine.
Current unrestricted medical licensure in California.
Current California driver’s license, a good driving record, and ability to remain insurable through TRIHCI’s insurance agency throughout employment.
Current BCLS certification, DEA registration, and National Provider Identification (NPI) registration.
Broad medical skills and knowledge applicable to ambulatory outpatient care.
Ability to obtain regulatory knowledge relevant to Indian health from entities such as IHS, CRIHB, IHP, and the State of California.
Good communication skills and ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations and convey responsibilities to patients.
Ability to work independently and remain reliable and dependable.
Basic computer and database software skills and working knowledge of routine office equipment such as printers, copiers, and fax machines.
Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare clear, accurate reports for informational, auditing, and operational use, with attention to detail and data accuracy.
Ability to organize and follow a work schedule, set priorities, be available during work hours, and meet critical deadlines.
Ability to contribute to group problem-solving and use sound reasoning when addressing emotional topics.
Ability to become knowledgeable about the health needs and services available to the Indian community on and near the reservation.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of organizational, employee, and client records.
Ability to deliver education, training, and presentations on technical medical subjects to groups with varied educational and cultural backgrounds.
Knowledge of communicable disease causes, transmission, and control, and of diagnosis and treatment of common medical problems.
Ability to perform essential job functions, with reasonable accommodations where applicable.
Successful completion of a criminal background check, post-offer drug test and physical, TB test, and verification of the right to work in the United States.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including walking, standing, or sitting for extended periods; using office equipment; lifting and carrying supplies up to 15 pounds repeatedly and 45 pounds intermittently; reading printed materials and computer screens; communicating in person and by telephone; and pushing, bending, or lifting to assist patients and move equipment or supplies.
Ability to work in a clinical setting with potential exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, infectious waste, chemicals, biologicals, and toxicants.

Nice To Haves

Two to four years of prior supervisory medical experience in ambulatory medicine; strong applicants coming from a residency program may also be considered.
Board certification by the American Board of Family Medicine.
ACLS and/or PALS certification.
Ability to obtain local hospital admitting privileges.
Knowledge of AAAHC or JACHO standards for accreditation and patient care.

Responsibilities

Provide primary medical diagnostic, preventive, educational, and treatment services at TRIHCI facilities in accordance with applicable policies and standards.
Serve as a preceptor for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and medical case managers; review and approve their notes for accuracy and compliance with clinic protocols.
Oversee the organization’s healthcare program, including clinical policies, procedures, and quality assurance processes.
Monitor and improve patient care quality and outcomes by implementing strategies to enhance care delivery.
Ensure compliance with Indian Health Service, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and other governing-body regulations.
Participate in professional development to remain current on medical advancements.
Collaborate with clinic administration to implement strategic initiatives for operational efficiency.
Provide staff development and training oversight in alignment with accreditation and federal, state, and Tribal policies and regulations.
Conduct patient interviews and obtain medical histories; coordinate appropriate diagnostic and screening tests and examinations.
Provide preliminary diagnoses and direct, prescribe, or deliver treatment regimens, including health education, health maintenance, medications, and follow-up services.
Prepare, maintain, and update physical and electronic medical records in accordance with sound medical practice guidelines and organizational needs.
Coordinate specialty-care referrals, including with TRIHCI’s Purchased Referred Care department and telemedicine programs.
Admit or coordinate admission of patients to area hospitals when necessary.
Coordinate, supervise, perform, or review routine laboratory work and therapeutic procedures, including injections, immunizations, debridement, and superficial wound care and suturing.
Participate in, develop, and implement quality improvement initiatives and contribute to clinic program evaluation.
Attend and contribute to required consultations, general and medical staff meetings, and specialized committee meetings.
Assist clinical staff with monitoring needs and ordering medical supplies, equipment, and medications kept onsite.
Represent TRIHCI in program reviews by regulatory agencies and related organizations.
Ensure required medical reports are completed on time, including annual diabetic audits, immunization reports, and BOD reports.
Develop mid-level providers through protocols, policies, procedures, and direct coaching.
Develop and propose medical standing orders, policies, guidelines, and treatment protocols to the CEO as required by leadership or law.
Carry out special assignments to improve clinical quality of care and administration, and perform other duties as assigned.