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Lower Cape Fear LifeCare

Medical Director - Dementia & Alzheimer's Physician

Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, Wilmington, North Carolina, United States, 28412

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Medical Director - Dementia & Alzheimer's Physician Lower Cape Fear LifeCare invites applications for the Medical Director – Dementia & Alzheimer's Physician position.

Job Summary

The Medical Director will provide visionary clinical leadership for a comprehensive dementia and cognitive care program, ensuring excellence in patient care, team development, and program innovation. This role combines hands‑on clinical work with strategic oversight, advancing best practices in the diagnosis, treatment and support of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders. The Medical Director will lead multidisciplinary initiatives, foster community and institutional partnerships, and drive continuous improvement in clinical quality, education and research.

Primary Job Duties

Provide direct medical care, including comprehensive assessments, diagnoses, and treatment plans for patients with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other cognitive impairments.

Conduct initial evaluations, follow‑up visits, and multidisciplinary consultations addressing medical, behavioral, and psychosocial needs.

Oversee medication management, symptom control, and palliative interventions to enhance patient comfort and functionality.

Collaborate with the care team to develop individualized plans incorporating non‑pharmacological therapies such as cognitive stimulation, behavioral management, and family education.

Participate in on‑call responsibilities as needed.

Design and implement clinical protocols, quality improvement initiatives, and evidence‑based guidelines for dementia care, drawing from leading program models.

Lead program expansion efforts, including integration with hospice services, community outreach, and partnerships with local healthcare providers.

Monitor outcomes such as patient satisfaction, health metrics, and caregiver support effectiveness, using data to guide ongoing improvements.

Ensure compliance with all regulatory standards, including those from CMS, The Joint Commission, and state health authorities.

Serve as a liaison with external stakeholders, including referring physicians, hospitals, and community organizations.

Mentor and collaborate with advanced practice providers, nurses, and support staff, fostering a cohesive, patient‑centered team culture.

Develop and deliver training programs for internal and external stakeholders on dementia‑related topics such as early detection, advanced care planning, and end‑of‑life considerations.

Participate in caregiver support initiatives, including educational workshops, support groups, and resource navigation.

Stay current with emerging research in dementia and Alzheimer’s care, incorporating new treatments, therapies, and technologies into practice.

Contribute to clinical research or quality improvement studies, collaborating with academic institutions or national organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association.

Advocate for the program through presentations, publications, and community engagement to raise awareness and support funding opportunities.

Job Specifications

Education : Medical Degree (MD or DO) from an accredited institution.

Licensure / Certifications : Active North Carolina medical license or eligibility to obtain one; board certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, or Psychiatry and Neurology (sub‑specialty in Geriatrics, Hospice and Palliative Care, or related field desirable). Valid driver's license.

Experience : Minimum 5-7 years of clinical experience in neurology, geriatrics, or dementia care, including at least two years in a leadership or supervisory capacity.

Technical Skills : Strong diagnostic and clinical skills in neurology and gerontology, including cognitive assessments, neuroimaging interpretation, and pharmacologic management; familiarity with hospice and palliative care models; experience in program development, quality improvement, or research in cognitive health; proficiency in EHR systems and data‑driven outcome tracking.

Interpersonal Skills : Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills; empathy and cultural competence; commitment to ethical practice; ability to handle emotionally challenging situations inherent to dementia care.

Essential Physical Requirements : Ability to perform clinical duties, including patient examinations, with occasional travel for home visits or community events.

Work Schedule : Monday‑Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; occasional after‑hour commitments, including weekends.

Employment Type : Full‑time, Director level; Health Care Provider within a hospital or health care setting.

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