Independence Health System·Unity Township, Pennsylvania
The Physician Assistant evaluates, diagnoses, and treats patients in a spine center, collaborating with supervising physicians in both hospital and outpatient settings. Key duties include serving as a surgical first assist and managing comprehensive pre- and post-operative patient care.
Evaluates, examines, diagnose, and treats patients in collaboration with their supervising and or substitute supervising physician according to established guidelines and protocols.
Maintains and promotes the well-being of the patient through preventative healthcare and guidance.
May provide care in both the hospital and outpatient setting.
May include weekends and shift work.
Includes surgical first assist responsibilities.
1.
Regular, consistent, on-site, and timely attendance.
2.
Ensures the assessment of the patient and the direct and indirect care of the patient is delivered in accordance with all appropriate licensing boards, hospital policies, procedures, and all other professional standards. a.
Collects patient assessment data in a systematic manner, focusing on the physical, psychosocial, age, cultural and spiritual needs of the patient. b.
Performs systematic physical exam and history of present illness. c.
Documents assessment data, history of present illness and physical findings as appropriate in the medical record within established time frame. d.
Involves patient and family and other healthcare providers when appropriate directed by individual physician practice. e.
Prescribes appropriate medications based on the patient's condition per state prescriptive authority guidelines and the Excela Health Allied Health Committee directed by individual physician practice.
3.
Demonstrates leadership by utilizing the behaviors inherent to the practice of a professional physician assistant. a.
Solves problems utilizing critical thinking skills and seeks assistance from supervising physician as appropriate b.
Maintains accountability for actions taken c.
Effectively functions as a resource person d.
Functions as a patient advocate e.
Performs effectively in the role of preceptor for new employees f.
Assists in maintaining/decreasing organizational costs. g.
Completes competencies required annually.
4.
Assists in the department's compliance with state, JCAHO, OSHA and other regulatory agencies a.
Assists in the preparation for surveys/inspections b.
Participates in the non-punitive medication reporting system. c.
Ensures accountability for narcotics per regulatory requirements. d.
Participates in health system/office fire, safety, utility, hazard, and disaster drills.
5.
Provides for patient safety in compliance with nursing, hospital, and physician practice guidelines and policies. a.
Utilizes two forms of patient identification before implementing any form of patient care b.
Assumes appropriate code team role during emergency situations c.
Responds effectively during emergency situations d.
Assists in maintaining a safe and clean environment for patients, visitors and staff e.
Adheres to infection control processes, including standard precautions to reduce the risk of acquiring or transmitting infections. f.
Practices the National Patient Safety Goals.
6.
Participates in unit performance activities designed to enhance the quality of patient care and customer service a.
Identifies initiatives to improve patient outcomes, satisfaction, or effectiveness. b.
Assists in chart reviews/audits as needed for performance improvement data collection. c.
Supports initiatives implemented to improve patient outcomes and/or office efficiencies.
7.
Manages the physical and psychological problems of the patient. a.
Identifies normal and abnormal findings. b.
Implements a plan of treatment and reassesses as needed directed by individual physician practice. c.
Evaluates the physical and emotional responses to medications and treatments. d.
Prescribes immunization per recommended schedules directed by individual physician practice. e.
Seeks appropriate consultation with others of the healthcare team.
8.
Communicates effectively with physician supervisor and other healthcare providers to achieve desired outcomes and assures a continuous flow of patient care. a.
Initiates and maintains problem list and medication lists. b.
Assesses and facilitates consultation when indicated. c.
Directs patients to appropriate level of care and communicates all pertinent information in a timely organized manner. d.
Assists in identifying and utilizing resources and or social agencies for further treatment or rehabilitation. “Ability to perform the Essential Functions on the Physical Conditions chart; and the ability to perform the Essential Functions on the Working Conditions chart (see attached charts)”
Candidates must have at least one year of medical/surgical experience, preferably within the last five years. The role requires the ability to perform essential physical and working conditions associated with surgical and clinical environments.
Market context
Physician openings in Pennsylvania are often driven by ongoing clinical coverage needs and specialty demand, so competition can be strongest for roles that require board eligibility, Pennsylvania licensure or IMLC eligibility, and preferred fellowship or EPIC experience. Benefits and requirements on this platform are AI-summarized from the original job description, helping you review the key details faster. If you are considering applying, confirm your licensure path and highlight any EPIC or fellowship experience in your materials.