Internal Medicine Specialist

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. Internal Medicine Specialist Full Time Loveland, CO, US 3 days ago Requisition ID: 1002 Job Summary The Internal Medicine Specialist is responsible for diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions in small animal patients, focusing on gastrointestinal, renal, endocrine, hematologic, immune, and respiratory systems. The role requires deep clinical expertise, advanced diagnostic acumen, and the ability to develop comprehensive, individualized treatment plans. The specialist works closely with other veterinary specialties, support staff, and referring veterinarians to provide high quality care through Spectrum of Care options. The specialist fosters a culture aligned with Four Seasons’ mission, vision, and values. Duties and Responsibilities A cornerstone of this role is the ability to execute thorough, methodical workups for patients with complex presentations. Obtain a complete history in conjunction with technicians. Prioritize diagnostic approaches based on clinical suspicion and patient stability. Integrate history, imaging, lab data, and prior treatment outcomes into a cohesive diagnostic process. Balance cost‑effective care with comprehensive case management, guided by best practices and evidence‑based medicine. Reassess and adjust plans as new data emerges, ensuring the patient remains at the center of clinical decision‑making. Recommend appropriate diagnostics, and formulate alternate plans if the gold standard is not an option for the client. Client Communication and Education Convey physical examination findings, differential diagnoses, and recommendations for diagnostic evaluation and therapy. Propose alternative diagnostic and therapeutic plans considering owner capabilities and financial constraints. Educate clients on disease processes, potential complications, and prognosis. Provide timely updates on status and financial aspects of hospitalized patients. Respond promptly to client phone calls and address questions before discharge. Complete patient records and send to referring veterinarians within 24 hours of the patient being seen. Send detailed SOAP daily if a shared patient is hospitalized. Respond to or answer referring veterinarian phone calls whenever possible, and return calls in a timely manner. Treat referring veterinarians as a valued team member and ensure they feel respected. Core Diagnostic Capabilities The Specialist must demonstrate proficiency in selecting, performing, and interpreting advanced diagnostic procedures. Rhinoscopy and cystoscopy Fluoroscopy Abdominal and thoracic ultrasonography, including guided aspirates/biopsies Computed tomography (CT) results, soft reads by non‑radiologist clinicians; interpretation by radiologist Radiographic studies (chest, abdominal, contrast) with soft reads Comprehensive hematology and biochemistry interpretation Urinalysis and urine sediment evaluation Endocrine function testing (ACTH stimulation, dexamethasone suppression, thyroid panels) Coagulation profiles Blood gas and electrolyte analysis Cytology and biopsy interpretation Fine needle aspirates (guided and blind) Bone marrow aspiration and core biopsies Thoracocentesis and abdominocentesis CSF collection and interpretation Esophageal and nasoesophageal feeding tube placement Blood pressure measurement (Doppler, oscillometric) Central line placement and fluid therapy planning Serial glucose and electrolyte monitoring Telemetry and ECG interpretation Critical care diagnostics in collaboration with emergency/ICU Esophagostomy tube placement and maintenance Medical Record Responsibilities Follow AAHA guidelines for comprehensive medical records. Write exemplary medical records with presenting complaints, history, physical exam findings, case assessment, plan of action, declined recommendations, prognosis, and working diagnosis. Complete out‑patient records and send to the referring veterinarian within 24 hours. Complete daily SOAP for any hospitalized pets and send to the referring veterinarian at the end of each shift. Pharmacy Duties Prescribe appropriate medication for patient conditions with accurate dosing. Approve prescriptions and review labels for accuracy. Assist in maintaining security of controlled substances. Promotes a Positive Work Environment, Teamwork & Staff Efficiency/Education Offer encouragement and praise. Foster a positive working environment throughout the practice. Deliver constructive feedback as necessary. Serve as a secure avenue for inquiries or reporting medical discrepancies. Assist staff with their responsibilities when required. Effectively communicate pertinent patient/client information during case transfer rounds. Communicate instructions to staff respectfully. Communicate desired plans to technical staff to ensure accurate cost estimates. Communicate costs clearly to clients. Provide current invoice amounts to clients during hospitalization or ensure they are provided timely. Use clinic resources efficiently. Marketing and Outreach Visit family veterinarians and provide phone consultations. Create educational content by presenting continuing education programs at regional and local events. Attend marketing and community events, e.g., Humane Society 5K races, W.O.L.F. Sanctuary Gala. Attend daily shift rounds on site at the hospital. Attend annual all‑staff meeting. Attend all doctor meetings quarterly. Attend and record Grand Rounds as needed; recordings available if unable to attend live. Attend twice yearly Continuing Education/Dinner events strongly encouraged. Other duties may be assigned as needed. Qualifications Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent from an accredited institution. Completion of a residency in veterinary internal medicine through ACVIM or ECVIM. Board certification strongly preferred; board‑eligible candidates will be considered. License or eligibility to practice veterinary medicine in the state of Colorado. Demonstrated expertise in complex case management, advanced diagnostics, and internal systems medicine. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with clients and cross‑functional teams. Prior experience in a specialty or referral hospital preferred. Safety Follow OSHA and USP guidelines concerning safety and handling of hazardous materials. Follow established hospital safety guidelines regarding animal handling, controlled drugs, radiation protection, bite wounds, and handling/care of equipment. Familiar with federal and state animal health laws, including OSHA and DEA regulations. Physical Demands Stand, walk, and sit for extended periods. Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls. Reach with hands and arms in various directions. Frequently stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Communicate effectively through speech and hearing. Occasionally required to climb or balance. Occasionally required to detect and identify smells or tastes. Lift and/or move up to 50 pounds frequently. Occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds with assistance. Work Environment Frequently exposed to risk of radiation while performing diagnostic imaging procedures. Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes, airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. Noise level is typically moderate. May be exposed to animals and environments where zoonotic diseases present. Strict adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment is required. Involves scheduled on‑call, overnight, or weekend coverage depending on hospital needs. Personal Conduct Adhere to all hospital protocols and standards. Show respect and sensitivity for cultural differences. Promote a harassment‑free environment. Represent the hospital with tact, consideration, courtesy, compassion, professionalism, and a positive attitude. Demonstrate teamwork and initiative by assisting other employees and proactively searching for additional work during periods of downtime. The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. #J-18808-Ljbffr