Adolescent Behavioral Health Physician Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Adolescent Behavioral Health Physician Assistant

Our organization is expanding and is in search of an Adolescent Behavioral Health Physician Assistant to become part of a newly established inpatient facility dedicated to adolescent behavioral health.

The Advanced Practice Provider (Physician Assistant) is responsible for delivering thorough medical evaluations and management for adolescents aged 13-17 who are admitted to the inpatient psychiatric unit. This role involves conducting admission histories and physical examinations, managing both acute and chronic medical issues within the defined scope of practice, and collaborating closely with psychiatry, nursing, and interdisciplinary teams to provide integrated, trauma-informed, and developmentally suitable care.

This position necessitates clinical proficiency in adolescent medicine and an understanding of behavioral health populations. The APP will act as the primary medical provider for non-psychiatric medical needs during psychiatric hospitalization.

• Conduct comprehensive admission histories and physical examinations for all adolescent psychiatric admissions.

• Assess and manage both acute and chronic medical conditions within the scope of practice.

• Provide medical clearance evaluations as required.

• Order, interpret, and follow up on diagnostic tests and laboratory studies within the scope of practice.

• Prescribe medications and oversee medical treatments in accordance with state regulations and organizational policies.

• Monitor and address side effects of medications, including those related to psychotropic drugs.

• Respond to urgent medical issues on the unit and stabilize patients as necessary.

• Refer to appropriate specialty or emergency medical services for conditions that exceed the scope or severity.

• Provide medical and psychiatric support during restrictive interventions.

• Collaborate with psychiatrists, therapists, nursing staff, social workers, and other team members to promote holistic care.

• Engage in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.

• Effectively communicate with families and guardians regarding medical findings and care plans.

• Coordinate follow-up care and referrals upon patient discharge.

• Ensure timely, thorough, and accurate documentation in the electronic medical record.

• Maintain compliance with regulatory, accreditation, and organizational standards.

• Stay informed about safety protocols relevant to behavioral health settings.

• Conduct face-to-face evaluations during restrictive interventions.

• Physician Assistant (PA) with good standing.

• Board certification relevant to the population served.

• DEA registration.

• Experience in adolescent health and behavioral health.

• Experience in behavioral health environments.

• Strong assessment and clinical decision-making abilities.

• Capability to thrive in a fast-paced inpatient setting.

• Experience in inpatient psychiatric or residential treatment environments.

• Understanding of trauma-informed care principles.

• Familiarity with psychotropic medications and their medical implications.

• Inpatient adolescent psychiatric unit (ages 13-17).

• Exposure to behavioral health crises.

• Requires flexibility, responsiveness to urgent needs, and strong professional boundaries.

• Monday to Friday work schedule.