Physician Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary/Scope of Responsibility

The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics LLC (CAO) is one of the nation’s largest Orthopaedics practices, owned and operated by physicians, with over 60 locations across Maryland, Northern Virginia, and the District of Columbia.  With approximately 2,000 employees, working in 28 Divisions, CAO is a growing business with revenues of approximately $250 Million. CAO is committed to be the Orthopaedics provider of choice for our patients; partner of choice for payors and health systems; and employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce.

This Physician Assistant (PA-C) supports orthopaedic surgeons in operating rooms and provides direct patient care according to state guidelines under the direction of the supervising physician. The PA will be involved in the coordination of treatment and assists in the management of preoperative and postoperative care. In coordination with the supervising physician, the PA will develop a comprehensive plan of care, and collaborates with the care team to ensure continuity and quality care.

Primary Responsibilities

The incumbent may be asked to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically stated in this description. The duties and responsibilities of the position are to be carried out in a manner that is consistent with the Mission, Core Values and Operating Principles of CAO.

1. Provides health care services to patients under the direction and responsibility of the assigned physician.
2. Examines patient, performs comprehensive physical examination, and compiles patient medical data, including health history and results of physical examination. 
3. Administers or orders diagnostic tests, such as x ray, electrocardiogram, and laboratory tests, and interprets test results for deviations from normal. 
4. Consults with physician when warranted to assess patient condition and treatment.
5. Performs therapeutic procedures, such as injections, immunizations, suturing and wound care, and managing infection. 
6. Develops and implements patient management plans, records progress notes, and assists in provision of continuity of care. 
7. Instructs and counsels patients regarding compliance with prescribed therapeutic regimens, normal growth and development, family planning, emotional problems of daily living, and health maintenance. 
8. Assist in operating room with designated duties per the credentials with the specific facility either surgery center or hospital based on training and education. 
9. Performs preoperative activities according to Facility policy.
10. Confers with the surgeon about the planned anesthetic to be administered.
11. Documents orders and considerations specified by surgeon and carried out by Physician.
12. Provides support to medical and office staff.
13. Ensures consistent compliance with all regulatory and CAO guidelines, policies, and procedures.
14. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience

1. Completion of an accredited Physician Assistant Program is required.
2. BLS Certification required.
3. 2 years’ experience preferred.
4. Must maintain CEU's in pertinent clinical practice according to licensure requirements.
5. Experience working in patient care, primarily in Orthopedic or Primary Care settings. 
6. Experience and proficiency working with computers and electronic medical records.

Competencies/Required Skills & Abilities

1. Strong Interpersonal Skills - Ability to develop relationships and collaborate in a decentralized organization.
2. Demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment with a proven track record of results.
3. Strong oral and written communication skills with excellent self-discipline and patience.
4. Demonstrated knowledge of EMR systems.
5. Required to be proficient in Windows based office technologies (e.g., Word, Excel).
6. Able to work independently.
7. Exudes professionalism in presentation.
8. Must be able to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in the English language.

Physical Demands

1. Must be able to sit for long periods of time and lift up to 50 pounds.
2. Must be able to use appropriate body mechanics when making necessary transfers and helping patients with exercises.
3. Requires frequent bending, reaching, repetitive hand movements, standing, walking, squatting, and sitting.
4. Some heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling exerted regularly throughout a standard work shift.
5. Adequate hearing to perform duties in person and over telephone.
6. Requires hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity needed to operate a keyboard, medical equipment, fax machine, scanner, photocopier, and telephone. 
7. Must be able to communicate clearly to patients in person and over the telephone.
8. Visual acuity adequate to perform job duties, including reading materials from printed sources and computer screens.
9. Requires exposure to communicable diseases, bodily fluids, medicinal preparations, and other conditions common to a clinical environment.