Physician Assistant-Orthopedic Clinic

The Physician Assistant (PA) plays a critical role in delivering healthcare services the Orthopedic Clinic at Palo Pinto General Hospital.  The incumbent will work closely with the Orthopedic surgeon in performing orthopedic exams and developing treatment plans The PA will provide patient education to promote health and wellness, ensuring patients understand their conditions and treatment options. Additionally, the role requires proficiency to respond to diverse patient needs and emergencies. Ultimately, the PA contributes to improving patient outcomes by delivering high-quality, compassionate care in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation from an accredited Physician Assistant program.
• Current and unrestricted Physician Assistant license in the state of Texas
• Solid understanding of conditions related to bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. 
• Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certifications.
• Demonstrated experience in Orthopedic.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems
• Strong background in patient education and health promotion strategies.
• Previous work experience in a multidisciplinary healthcare team environment.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough patient assessments including history taking and physical examinations.
• Diagnose and treat a wide range of  orthopedic conditions in a clinic setting. 
• Oversee recovery, remove sutures, adjust braces, and ensure rehabilitation progresses smoothly.
• Collaborate with surgeon to develop personalized treatment plans, which may include physical therapy, medications, or surgery. 
• Provide patient education, treatment options, and health maintenance.
• Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare team members to ensure coordinated and effective patient care.
• Respond promptly to trauma and critical care situations, stabilizing patients and facilitating appropriate referrals.
• Document patient encounters accurately and maintain up-to-date medical records in compliance with regulatory standards.

Skills:

Specializes in conditions related to bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Highly trained to manage many aspects of patient care independently. Proficiency in patient education enables the PA to communicate complex medical information clearly, empowering patients to participate actively in their care. Work under pressure, requiring quick decision-making and technical competence. The PA uses primary care skills to provide continuous and preventive care, fostering long-term patient relationships and health maintenance. Preferred skills like familiarity with EHR systems and accessibility of care, supporting seamless documentation and remote patient management.