The Hepatologist is responsible for diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with acute and chronic liver diseases. They work closely with gastroenterologists, transplant surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
Key Responsibilities
- Diagnose and treat liver disorders such as:
- Hepatitis (A, B, C, and other viral hepatitis)
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
- Cirrhosis
- Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
- Autoimmune liver diseases
- Alcohol-related liver disease
- Genetic liver disorders
- Perform comprehensive patient evaluations, including medical history and physical examinations.
- Order and interpret laboratory tests, imaging studies, and liver biopsies.
- Develop individualized treatment plans and monitor patient progress.
- Manage complications of advanced liver disease, including portal hypertension, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and variceal bleeding.
- Evaluate and prepare patients for liver transplantation and provide post-transplant follow-up care.
- Prescribe medications and recommend lifestyle modifications.
- Educate patients and families on liver health, disease prevention, and treatment adherence.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure coordinated care.
- Maintain accurate patient records and comply with medical and legal documentation standards.
- Participate in clinical research, quality improvement initiatives, and continuing medical education.
Required Qualifications
- Medical degree (MBBS or equivalent).
- Postgraduate qualification in Internal Medicine.
- Specialized training in Gastroenterology with expertise in Hepatology (DM/DNB Gastroenterology & Hepatology.
- Valid medical licence/registration.