Physician Assistant -- Part Time chez ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES OF WISCONSIN

Summary of Role

The Physician Assistant (PA) will work closely with an orthopedic surgeon to provide comprehensive and quality medical care. The PA will assist in pre- and post-operative care and provide follow-up treatment in an orthopedic clinical setting. The ideal candidate will have strong clinical skills, experience in orthopedic procedures, and a commitment to providing high-quality patient care.

This is a part-time position that would include weekend hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the orthopedic surgeon in the operating room, including prepping patients, and ensuring all surgical instruments and equipment are prepared and sterile.
• Conduct pre-operative assessments, including taking patient histories, performing physical exams, and ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests. Dictate the same information into the hospital records, as well as report it to the supervisory physician.
• Manage post-operative care, including monitoring patients’ recovery, managing wound care, and providing instructions for rehabilitation and follow-up visits.
• Perform joint injections, aspirations, and other minor orthopedic procedures under the supervision of the orthopedic surgeon. Assist with casting, splinting, and bracing of patients as required.
• Provide patient education on orthopedic conditions, treatment plans, post-operative care, and rehabilitation.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the orthopedic surgeon and other healthcare professionals.
• Maintain detailed and accurate medical records for all patients, ensuring timely documentation of all patient interactions and treatments.
• Serve as a point of contact for patients and their families, addressing concerns and providing information about treatment and recovery.
• Participate in personal and professional development activities and programs to enhance clinical skills and knowledge.
• Stay current with advances in orthopedic medicine and surgical techniques through continuing education, professional organizations, and medical literature.
• Maintain the strictest patient confidentiality.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Master’s degree from an accredited Physician Assistant program
• Certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
• Current state licensure as a Physician Assistant
• Minimum of two years of experience as a Physician Assistant, preferably in orthopedic surgery or a related field
• Experience in assisting with surgical procedures and managing pre-and post-operative care
• Strong knowledge of orthopedic conditions, treatments, and surgical procedures
• Excellent clinical skills, including physical examination, diagnostic interpretation, and minor procedures
• Proficiency in EPIC or other electronic medical record systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Physical and Mental Demands

Communication Skills

Clear and concise communication with patients, families, and healthcare team members. Ability to explain medical conditions, procedures, and treatment plans in a way that is understandable to non-medical individuals. Proficient in documenting patient interactions, treatment plans, and surgical reports accurately and comprehensively in electronic medical records. Strong ability to build rapport with patients, demonstrate empathy, and provide emotional support. Effective teamwork and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.

Mathematical Skills

Accurate calculation of medication dosages, considering factors such as patient weight and age. Ability to interpret diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, and lab results, which may include numerical data. Proficiency in analyzing clinical data to make informed decisions about patient care and treatment plans. 

Judgement and Decision Making

Ability to assess patient conditions accurately, interpret diagnostic tests, and determine appropriate treatment plans in collaboration with the orthopedic surgeon. Strong problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges during surgeries or patient care, making quick and effective decisions. Skill in prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively, especially in a fast-paced and dynamic healthcare environment. Ability to identify potential complications or risks in patient care and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.

Software and Technology

Proficiency in using electronic medical record systems for documenting patient information, treatment plans, and surgical notes accurately and efficiently. Skilled in using diagnostic imaging equipment such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, including interpreting the results to assist in diagnosis and treatment planning. Familiarity with surgical instruments, equipment, and technology used in orthopedic procedures, including arthroscopy, robotic surgery systems, and other advanced surgical tools.

Work Environment

The PA will spend a significant portion of time assisting in surgical procedures in sterile operating rooms. This requires adherence to strict aseptic protocols and the ability to stand for extended periods. Work in various patient care areas, including pre-operative and post-operative units, where the PA will conduct assessments, provide care, and monitor recovery. Conduct outpatient consultations, follow-up visits, and minor procedures in a clinical office setting. This involves direct patient interaction, documentation, and patient education. Must be able to lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs.