Nephrologist at The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE)

Job Purpose

• The Nephrologist will be responsible for diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with kidney-related disorders, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The role involves clinical care, dialysis supervision, patient education, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to ensure high-quality renal care.
• The role holder will also engage in clinical research, patient education, and adherence to international medical standards and ethical practices.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities

Clinical Consultation & Diagnosis

• Conduct comprehensive medical evaluations for patients with suspected or confirmed kidney diseases.
• Interpret laboratory results (e.g., creatinine, GFR, electrolytes, urinalysis) and imaging studies related to renal function.
• Utilize advanced diagnostic techniques, including renal biopsy, for accurate diagnosis.
• Diagnose a wide range of kidney conditions, including acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, glomerular diseases, and genetic kidney disorders.
• Formulate differential diagnoses and determine the most appropriate diagnostic pathway.
• Provide expert opinions on complex nephrology cases to referring physicians.

Disease Management & Treatment Planning

• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans for patients with various kidney diseases.
• Prescribe and manage medications, including immunosuppressants, diuretics, and agents for anemia and bone disease.
• Oversee conservative management strategies for chronic kidney disease to delay progression.
• Manage fluid and electrolyte imbalances in critically ill and renal patients.
• Coordinate care with other specialists for patients with multi-system involvement.
• Adjust treatment plans based on patient response, disease progression, and comorbidities.

Dialysis Management

• Initiate and manage patients on hemodialysis, including prescription writing and oversight of dialysis sessions.
• Oversee the management of peritoneal dialysis patients, including training and troubleshooting.
• Monitor dialysis adequacy and adjust prescriptions as needed.
• Address complications related to dialysis access (e.g., AV fistula, grafts, catheters).
• Educate patients and families on the principles and practicalities of dialysis.
• Ensure compliance with international standards for dialysis care.

Kidney Transplant Care (Pre & Post)

• Evaluate potential kidney transplant recipients and donors, determining suitability for transplantation.
• Manage pre-transplant workup, including immunological assessments.
• Provide post-transplant care, including immunosuppression management and monitoring for rejection and complications.
• Collaborate closely with transplant surgeons and transplant coordinators.
• Educate transplant patients on lifelong medication adherence and lifestyle modifications.
• Address infectious and cardiovascular complications in transplant recipients.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Collaborate effectively with a wide range of healthcare professionals, including nurses, dietitians, social workers, and pharmacists.
• Participate in regular multidisciplinary team meetings (e.g., grand rounds, transplant meetings).
• Provide expert consultation to other departments on renal-related issues.
• Ensure seamless coordination of care transitions for patients moving between different settings.
• Foster a collaborative and respectful working environment.
• Communicate effectively with primary care physicians for integrated patient management.

Patient & Family Education

• Provide clear and comprehensive education to patients and their families about kidney diseases, treatment options, and prognosis.
• Educate patients on lifestyle modifications, dietary restrictions, and fluid management.
• Counsel patients on end-of-life care options and advanced directives for chronic kidney disease.
• Empower patients to actively participate in their own care decisions.
• Develop patient education materials that are culturally appropriate and accessible.
• Address patient and family concerns with empathy and clarity.

Educational Requirements, Skills and Experience

• Medical degree (MD/MBBS) from an internationally recognized university.
• Certification in Nephrology or equivalent international certification.
• Valid medical license in the country of practice.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of post-specialization experience in nephrology, preferably in an international hospital setting.
• Extensive experience in managing acute and chronic kidney diseases, dialysis (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplantation.
• Proficiency in renal biopsy and other relevant procedures.
• Strong diagnostic and clinical decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and medical ethics.