Medical Director - Palliative Care

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The West Virginia University Health System, the state’s largest health system and largest private employer, comprises 18 hospitals throughout the state and bordering states. In addition, it includes five institutes, as well as providing management services for other local hospitals through affiliate agreements.

Whether you are caring for our patients at one of the critical access hospitals, community sites, regional or academic medical centers, we are all one WVU Health System.

Work Here. Thrive Here.

Additional Job Description:

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and compassionate Part-Time Palliative Care Medical Director to lead our interdisciplinary palliative care team. The Medical Director will provide clinical oversight, strategic direction, and leadership to ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered palliative care services. This role requires a physician with a strong background in palliative medicine, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Leadership & Oversight

• Provide direct patient care, including consultations, comprehensive assessments, and management of complex symptoms (e.g., pain, dyspnea, nausea).
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team (nurses, social workers, chaplains, etc.) to develop and implement individualized care plans.
• Serve as a clinical expert and resource for the team, offering guidance on complex cases and ethical dilemmas.
• Oversee compliance with all regulatory and organizational standards.
• Ensure adherence to clinical guidelines, quality standards, and legal requirements.

Program Development & Strategic Direction

• Partner with leadership to develop and expand the palliative care program.
• Establish and monitor quality metrics to drive continuous improvement.
• Participate in strategic planning and budget development for the palliative care service line.
• Manage program-related expenditures in a fiscally responsible manner.

Education, Training & Recruitment

• Provide education and training to medical staff, residents, and other healthcare professionals on palliative care principles.
• Mentor and support the palliative care team to foster professional growth and excellence.
• Participate in the recruitment, onboarding, and development of new team members.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with referring physicians, departments, and community partners.
• Represent the palliative care program at conferences and community events to promote awareness and understanding.
• Collaborate with hospital and organizational leadership to align program goals with broader institutional priorities.

Qualifications

Required

• MD or DO from an accredited medical school.
• Board certification in a primary specialty (e.g., Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Oncology).
• Unrestricted medical license to practice in West Virginia (or ability to obtain prior to start date).
• Experience in palliative medicine with leadership or program development exposure.

Preferred

• Experience as a medical director or in a leadership role.
• Board certification or eligibility in Hospice and Palliative Medicine.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in palliative medicine.
• Proven track record in quality improvement and program growth.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.

Work Schedule

Part-time position with an expected commitment of 20 hours per month.

Specific hours and days are flexible and can be discussed during the interview process.

Benefits

Covered malpractice insurance.

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

20

Shift:

Exempt/Non-Exempt:

United States of America (Exempt)

Company:

SMG System Medical Group

Cost Center:

500 SMG Administration

Address:

122 12th Street

Princeton

West Virginia

Equal Opportunity Employer

 

West Virginia University Health System and its subsidiaries (collectively "WVUHS") is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. WVUHS strictly prohibits and does not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants, or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. All WVUHS employees, other workers, and representatives are prohibited from engaging in unlawful discrimination. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, training, promotion, discipline, compensation, benefits, and termination of employment.