Copy of Physician Assistant

Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists•Lafayette, LA

About The Position

Works with the orthopedic surgeon as a clinical and surgical extender across the clinic, operating room, and hospital. Assesses patient health status, interprets imaging, and determines appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic procedures within the scope of practice. The role also supports clinic operations, coordinates surgical and hospital care, and maintains patient records and required documentation. The job holder must demonstrate current competencies and maintain licensure and certification as a PA or NP.

Requirements

Graduate of an AMA-accredited physician assistant program.
Minimum of one year of experience as a physician assistant in a clinic or hospital.
Current state PA license.
Certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.
Current CPR certification.
Knowledge of acute and chronic protocols, medication administration, and delivering physical care according to a treatment plan.
Knowledge of patient health assessment and measuring and recording physiologic and growth indices.
Knowledge of health promotion principles and techniques and patient learning measurements.
Skill in gathering and analyzing physiological, socioeconomic, and emotional patient data.
Skill in accurately evaluating patient problems in person or by phone and providing appropriate advice, intervention, or referral.
Skill in evaluating and revising care plans based on patient changes.
Ability to make responsible decisions within the scope of a dependent medical practitioner.
Ability to develop health education programs and materials.
Ability to work collaboratively with all members of the health care team.

Nice To Haves

Experience in orthopedics is preferred.
MS preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage post-operative visits, pre-operative workups, follow-ups, established patients, and acute add-ons.
Take orthopedic histories, perform examinations, and interpret routine imaging.
Perform clinic procedures, including steroid and visco injections, PRP support, casting and splinting, and DME fitting, using sterile technique.
Write post-operative prescriptions and manage refills within scope, including narcotics; escalate to the MD when indicated.
Educate patients and families on post-operative care, cast and brace care, crutch use, and warning signs.
Guide surgical patients through pre-admission and medical clearance and confirm readiness for surgery.
First-assist in the operating room with positioning, draping, exposure, hemostasis, wound closure, and dressings.
Mark patients, update H&Ps, and prepare images and surgery packets.
Round on hospital patients and complete discharge orders, medication reconciliation, and PT orders.
Coordinate with surgery centers, hospitals, implant representatives, and therapy on orders, supplies, implants, and positioning preferences.
Take after-hours and weekend call and keep the clinic running during MD absences.
Document care in Epic, including accurate charge capture, ancillary orders, DME proof of delivery, and medical necessity.
Track test results and ensure provider review and patient follow-up.
Complete workers' compensation, disability, and leave paperwork per LOS processes, including work status and follow-up scheduling.
Support schedule access by accepting add-ons, filling cancellations, and following scheduling protocols.
Respond to emergencies, including use of CPR.
Work collaboratively with the surgeon, MAs, therapy, and clinic staff, and support entry-level staff.
Maintain patient confidentiality.