Physician Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Physician Assistant (PA) play a crucial role in delivering comprehensive healthcare services under the supervision of a licensed physician. The Physician Assistant conduct patient assessments, diagnose illnesses, and develop treatment plans. PAs order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and provide patient education on health maintenance and disease prevention. The Physician Assistant collaborate closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care and ensure optimal outcomes. The Physician Assistant also perform procedures, such as suturing wounds and assisting in minor surgeries, depending on state regulations and practice guidelines. The Physician Assistant responsibilities include maintaining accurate medical records, adhering to healthcare laws and ethical standards, and advocating for patient needs within the healthcare system.

The work hours for this position are Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM with a one (1) hour unpaid lunch scheduled from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM and rotating Saturday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Listed below you will find essential duties and responsibilities to successfully perform this job. Reasonable accommodation will be granted, as necessary to perform the essential duties and function of this position.

• Conduct comprehensive physical exams.
• Gather patient medical histories.
• Diagnose and treat acute and chronic illnesses.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans.
• Prescribe medications and treatments.
• Monitor patient responses to medications and treatments.
• Educate patients on healthy lifestyle choices.
• Provide preventive care services, such as immunizations and screenings.
• Order and interpret diagnostic tests (e.g., lab work, imaging).
• Use diagnostic information to inform treatment plans.
• Educate patients and families on disease management and prevention.
• Counsel patients on lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation.
• Work with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, specialists, and nurses.
• Coordinate care with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive patient management.
• Advocate for patients' needs and preferences in healthcare decisions.
• Assist patients in navigating the healthcare system.
• Maintain accurate and detailed patient records.
• Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and standards.
• Stay updated with the latest medical research and practices.
• Participate in continuing education and professional development activities.
• Provide emergency care and first aid as needed.
• Manage urgent and emergency situations appropriately.
• Participate in community health initiatives and outreach programs.
• Address public health issues and promote community wellness.
• Meet the productivity expectations of 20 patients per day average.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for this position.

CERTIFICATION & EXPERIENCE

• A Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) or equivalent from an accredited PA program.
• A board certificate through a recognized body, such National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
• A Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Certificate
• A National Provider Identifier (NPI) Number
• A Basic Life Support (BLS) Certificate
• One year of experience in primary care outpatient setting

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

• Proficiency in conducting physical exams, diagnosing illnesses, and performing medical procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities to diagnose and treat patients effectively.
• Ability to build rapport with patients and work collaboratively with healthcare professionals.
• Efficient time management skills to handle a busy and varied caseload.
• Ability to provide empathetic and compassionate care to patients of all ages.
• Effective problem-solving skills to address complex patient needs and healthcare challenges.
• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) and other healthcare technology.
• In-depth understanding of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology.
• Comprehensive knowledge of primary care practices, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and health promotion.
• Expertise in managing health issues across the lifespan, from pediatrics to geriatrics.
• Knowledge of healthcare regulations, patient privacy laws (e.g., HIPAA), and ethical standards.
• Familiarity with evidence-based clinical guidelines and best practices.
• Understanding of public health principles and community health issues.
• Detailed knowledge of medications, including indications, contraindications, side effects, and interactions.
• Proficiency in ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and imaging studies.
• Knowledge of effective patient education techniques and resources.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment is characteristic of a clinic environment. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the individual is frequently required to sit, use hands to handle or feel. The individual is also required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The individual must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The individual must also possess hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the phone. The noise level in the work environment is usually noisy.

The individual may be in contact with individuals and families in crisis who may be ill, using substances and/or not attentive to personal health and safety for themselves or their homes. The individual may experience a number of unpleasant sensory demands associated with the client's use of alcohol and drugs, and the lack of personal care. The individual may also be exposed to bodily fluids (blood, urine) and hazardous chemicals.