Copy of Physician Assistant

Position Summary

Works with the orthopedic surgeon as a clinical and surgical extender across clinic, the operating room and the hospital. Assesses patient health status, interprets imaging, and determines appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic procedures within scope of practice.

Essential Duties

Manages post-op visits, pre-op workups, follow-ups, established patients and acute add-ons. Takes orthopedic histories, performs exams and interprets routine imaging.

Performs clinic procedures including steroid and visco injections, PRP support, casting/splinting and DME fitting, using sterile technique.

Writes post-operative prescriptions and manages refills within scope, including narcotics, escalating to the MD when indicated.

• Educates patients and families on post-op care, cast and brace care, crutch use and warning signs.
• Guides surgical patients through pre-admit and medical clearance and confirms readiness for surgery.

First-assists in the operating room with positioning, draping, exposure, hemostasis, wound closure and dressings. Marks patients, updates H&Ps and prepares images and surgery packets.

• Rounds on hospital patients and completes discharge orders, medication reconciliation and PT orders.
• Coordinates with surgery centers, hospitals, implant reps and therapy on orders, supplies, implants and positioning preferences.
• Takes call after hours and on weekends, and keeps clinic running during MD absences.
• Documents care in Epic, including accurate charge capture, ancillary orders, DME proof of delivery and medical necessity.
• Tracks test results and ensures provider review and patient follow-up.
• Completes workers' compensation, disability and leave paperwork per LOS processes, including work status and follow-up scheduling.
• Supports schedule access by accepting add-ons, filling cancellations and following scheduling protocols.
• Responds to emergencies including the use of CPR.
• Works collaboratively with the surgeon, MAs, therapy and clinic staff, and supports entry-level staff.
• Maintains patient confidentiality.

The job holder must demonstrate current competencies for the job position and maintain licensure and certification as a PA or NP.

Requirements

BA/BS, MS preferred. Graduate of AMA accredited physician assistant program.

Minimum of one-year experience as a physician assistant in a clinic or hospital. Experience in orthopedics is preferred.

Current state PA license, certified by National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, current CPR certification.

Knowledge of acute and chronic protocols, administration of medications, delivering physical care following treatment plan.

• Knowledge of how to assess patient health and measure/record physiologic and growth indices.
• Knowledge of health promotion principles and techniques and patient learning measurements.
• Skill in gathering and analyzing physiological, socioeconomic and emotional patient data.
• Skill in accurately evaluating patient problems in person or via phone and providing appropriate advice, intervention or referral.
• Skill in evaluating and revising care plan based on patient changes.
• Ability to make responsible decisions within the scope of dependent medical practitioner.
• Ability to develop health education programs and materials.
• Ability to work collaboratively with all members of the health care team.