A new opportunity has emerged for a rheumatologist to join a private practice in upstate South Carolina, focusing on the full spectrum of rheumatologic conditions with a particular emphasis on osteoporosis. The position, advertised by Jackson Physician Search, aims to build and shape a rheumatology service line within an established, high-reputation group.
The role will involve close collaboration with orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists (PM&R), and therapists to ensure coordinated patient care and optimal outcomes. The practice offers comprehensive outpatient care, including diagnostics such as laboratory tests and imaging, infusion therapy, and coordination of rehabilitation services. Board certification or eligibility (BC/BE) is required.
The growing prevalence of osteoporosis, a disease characterized by loss of bone mass and increased bone fragility, underscores the importance of specialized care. According to data from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, more than 10 million Americans over the age of 50 are affected by osteoporosis, with women being four times more likely to develop the condition than men. The condition most commonly affects the hips, spine, and wrists, leading to a higher risk of fractures.
The position’s focus on osteoporosis aligns with a broader trend towards multidisciplinary approaches to skeletal health. Brigham and Women’s Hospital’s Skeletal Health and Osteoporosis Center, for example, integrates specialists from orthopedics, women’s health, rheumatology, oncology, and pediatric endocrinology. This collaborative model reflects the complex nature of bone health and the need for comprehensive management strategies.
Rheumatologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing osteoporosis, alongside other specialists. As Healthline notes, several types of doctors can assist in managing osteoporosis, including primary care providers, endocrinologists, geriatricians, and gynecologists. However, rheumatologists specialize in musculoskeletal and autoimmune conditions, offering expertise in non-surgical treatments for bone and joint disorders.
The advertised position is situated in a community offering an affordable cost of living, a strong and growing job market, and a balanced lifestyle. Housing, utilities, and everyday expenses are reportedly lower than national averages. The local economy is diversified, with growth in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology sectors. The area boasts riverfront parks, mountain trails, lakes, and a vibrant downtown scene, contributing to a high quality of life.
The community’s strategic location provides access to major metropolitan areas and transportation links, while maintaining a small-city appeal. It is also described as family-friendly, with good schools and safe neighborhoods. These factors are likely intended to attract physicians seeking a desirable work-life balance and a supportive environment for raising families.
The search is being led by Kelsey Hirschman, Senior Search Consultant at Jackson Physician Search. Interested candidates are encouraged to schedule a call with Hirschman via https://calendry.com/kelseyhirschman, or contact her by phone at 843-680-1248 or email at kelsey.hirschman@jacksonphysiciansearch.com.
The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Health Center highlights the importance of advanced diagnostic techniques, including trabecular bone score, body composition analysis, vertebral fracture assessment, and atypical femoral fracture assessment bone scans. HSS is the only facility in New York State certified by the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD), demonstrating a commitment to high standards in bone density testing.
Treatment options for osteoporosis, as outlined by Brigham and Women’s Hospital, include medications to strengthen bones, such as alendronate (Fosamax®), risedronate (Actonel®), calcitonin (Micalcin®), and raloxifene (Evista®). Alongside medication, physicians recommend lifestyle modifications, including adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium, avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol/caffeine consumption, and regular weight-bearing exercise.
The role emphasizes outpatient care, a growing trend in rheumatology as healthcare systems seek to provide more accessible and cost-effective treatment options. The integration of infusion therapy and rehabilitation services within the practice suggests a commitment to comprehensive patient management, addressing not only the medical aspects of rheumatologic conditions but also the functional and quality-of-life implications.
The Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center, Inc. In Reading, PA, exemplifies a dedicated focus on these conditions, specializing in the care of patients with arthritis and other immunological diseases. This demonstrates the increasing specialization within the field of rheumatology and the growing demand for expert care in these areas.
