POSITION SUMMARY:

A physician assistant (PA) provides health care services to patients under the direction and responsible supervision of a physician.   PA's are academically and clinically trained to perform many of the routine but time-consuming tasks that physicians usually do, and are accountable for their own actions as well as being accountable to their supervising physicians.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (include but not limited to):

1.     Examines patient, takes medical history, records results, and makes preliminary diagnosis or decides on follow-up procedures.

2.     Administers or orders diagnostic tests such as X-rays, electrocardiograms, and blood work, and interprets test results.

3.     Performs therapeutic procedures, such as immunizations, injections, suturing and wound care, and managing infection.

4.     Exercises professional judgment regarding consultation with supervising physicians concerning appropriate treatment.

5.     Develops and implements patient care plans, instructs and counsels patients, and records progress.

6.     Prescribes medications to the extent allowable by state guidelines and clinic regulations.

7.     Provides general health education regarding matters such as proper diet, family planning, emotional problems of daily living, and health maintenance.

8.     Assists physician, as required, for emergency treatment and more complex procedures.

JOB REQUIREMENTS (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities):

• Knowledge of medical practice and care to assist in giving patient care.   
• Knowledge of medical equipment, medications and instruments.
• Knowledge of common safety hazards and precautions to establish a safe work environment.
• Skill in assisting in a variety of treatments and settings.
• Skill in verbal and written communication and maintaining records.

·         State accreditation based on certifying exam. Continued employment requires 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and passing a recertification examination every 6 years.

·         Demonstrated competencies in dealing with all age groups including neonates, infants, children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients.

• Ability to work effectively and independently with hospital personnel, physicians and patients.
• Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Must have a pleasant disposition and high tolerance level. 

EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE:

·         Completion of a four-year accredited physician assistant baccalaureate program and a year of clinical training, OR

·         Completion of a two-year accredited physician assistant program (which, in turn, requires two years of undergraduate study) plus two years of clinical training following completion of PA program.