The Mary S. Shook Student Health Service exists to provide for the health care needs of the students of Appalachian State University. This position provides patient care, including performing assessment, determining diagnosis, developing treatment plans, prescribing medication, engaging in research activities, and providing training and education for a wide variety of medical conditions under the supervision of a physician. This position will also participate in continuous quality improvement and accreditation programs at health services. Perform medical acts within his/her area of educational preparation and certification under a collaborative practice agreement (CPA), with a licensed physician. Ability to manage complex dilemmas. Ability to anticipate, recognize and respond to potentially problematic situations. Knowledge of advanced communication techniques. Skill in observing behavior and mannerisms. Ability to actively listen. Ability to answer questions from healthcare personnel and patients on diseases processes, diagnosis and treatment. Ability to diagnose mental health illnesses and to treat them appropriately. Ability to interpret lab tests, EKG's, and xrays. Ability to coordinate referrals to specialists. Work with other agencies on campus in the prevention of illnesses and care of illnesses and care of students who become ill or injured. Provide health education to individuals or to groups on campus in order to promote optimal health and prevent future illness. Coordinate and monitor the CQI and accreditation programs at the Student Health Service. Working knowledge of patient care practices and held accountable for the continuous and comprehensive management of a broad range of personal health services for which the nurse practitioner/physician assistant is educationally prepared and for which competency has been maintained. These services include but are not restricted to: (1) promotion and maintenance of health; (2) prevention of illness and disability; (3) diagnosing, treating and managing acute and chronic illnesses; (4) guidance and counseling for both individuals and families; (5) prescribing, administering and dispensing therapeutic measures, tests, procedures and drugs; (6) planning for situations beyond their expertise and consulting with and referring to other health care providers as appropriate; and (7) evaluating health outcomes.