(PA) Physician Assistant - Breast Health Center - 140415

(PA) Physician Assistant - Breast Health Center - 140415

Under the direction of the Director of the UC San Diego Comprehensive Breast Health Center, the Physician Assistant will function as a provider of patient care on specific in- and out-patient services. Incumbent will perform outpatient clinic visits (new and follow-up), pre-operative evaluations, and post-operative management, while also assisting a surgical first assist in the operating room. Selected procedures within scope of practice may also be performed. This role ensures 100% coverage of the outpatient breast surgical service and supports clinic and OR workflow efficiency. The APP will work under the supervision of attending surgeons to maintain continuity of care, improve patient access, and support timely, high-quality surgical services across the full spectrum of care.

New Physician Assistant graduates are encouraged to apply, particularly those who are eager to develop their clinical skills and build competency in the operating room setting. The selected candidate will have dedicated operating room exposure with the Breast Division Chief, who is a board-certified Plastic Surgeon and performs a broad range of breast oncology and plastic surgery procedures. This role is well-suited for individuals who are motivated to learn surgical techniques, gain hands-on operative experience, and grow within a dynamic academic surgical environment. Prior operating room experience is not required; however, a strong interest in surgical practice and a commitment to developing OR skills are essential for success in this position.

Depending on experience of the selected candidate, this position will be hired at the PA or Sr. PA level.

Minimum Qualifications

• California Physician Assistant (PA) license.
• Current PA Certification from NCCPA.
• BLS certification at time of hire with commitment to get BART within six months of hire date.
• Theoretical background in anatomy, physiology, general medicine including basics in pulmonary, emergency and critical care medicine, management of common diseases, concepts of medicine and surgery - in particular wound care, therapeutics, including pharmacology, counseling techniques and interpersonal dynamics.
• Ability perform initial history, and physical examination, identify major medical problems, and formulate appropriate plans of action.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data in a meaningful manner.
• Ability to be trained in the use of specialized medical equipment e.g., tissue perfusion measuring devices.
• Writing skills to prepare clear medical reports, laboratory data and progress notes, as well as policies, procedures and protocols for patient care management.
• Ability to maintain detailed medical information in an organized and easily retrievable manner.
• Ability to function as, or develop competency to function as, a surgical first assistant in operative procedures, with knowledge of operating room standards and techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients and other health care personnel, and skill at providing clear written, verbal and telephone communication with a wide variety of people.
• Knowledge of all types of treatment and modalities necessary for patients care and well-being, and ability to write orders regarding execution of inpatient, outpatient plans of treatment.
• Ability to assess the daily status and progress of patients and report this effectively to the physician in-charge and other medical care personnel associated with the patient.
• Ability to maintain good working relationships and communications with physician's in-charge, laboratory personnel, and members of the health care team.
• Knowledge of medical ethics and law practices, pertaining to medical and medical socioeconomics.

Special Conditions

• Must be willing to work flexible, variable hours with the ability to change schedule on short notice. May require occasional evening and weekend hours beyond the normal workday.
• Must be able to work various locations based on business needs.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.
• Must be able to obtain UCSD Medical Staff privileges and maintain during employment. Due to advanced practice credentialing eligibility, clinical advanced practice experience must be within the last two years gained through school or work experience.