Emergency Department Physician Assistant

PURPOSE

The Physician Assistant will be responsible for providing outstanding emergency medical care in accordance with the Colorado Medical Practice Act. The PA will carry out the Mission of EPR to deliver exceptional care while reshaping how we meet the healthcare needs of our communities.

JOB DUTIES:

CLINICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. The Physician Assistant (PA) will provide excellent patient care through the evaluation and management of emergent and non-emergent patients presenting to the Emergency Department (ED).
2. Clear identification of the PA as a non-physician Clinician to the patient will be stated on introduction to the patient and by wearing the designated ID badge with appropriate title.
3. Patient care participation by the PA will include history-taking, physical examination, ordering and interpreting diagnostic and therapeutic studies, ordering medications, developing and implementing a treatment plan, monitoring response and effectiveness of interventions performed, and making appropriate referrals to other Clinicians as needed.
4. The PA will document discussion and involvement of the specific Attending Physician involved in the care of the patient.
5. Appropriate supervision by the Attending Physician is outlined below. Refer to Treatment Criteria Categories for information regarding the patient condition categories. CATEGORY I - Consult with Attending ED Physician. CATEGORY II - Should be initially seen by the physician, or primary responsibility of care transferred to Attending ED Physician once identified.
6. All EKGs will be presented to the Attending Physician as early as possible to document an EKG attestation.
7. The PA will present all admission and transfer out cases to the Attending Physician for evaluation (excluding substance use and mental health, case dependent). The Attending Physician evaluates and documents an attestation on these patients.
8. The PA will clearly communicate to the Attending Physician any emergent concerns regarding a patient in a timely manner. In addition, if the PA identifies a patient beyond their comfort level they will co-manage with or transfer care to the Attending Physician as appropriate.
9. Critical condition patients requiring documentation of Critical Care, i.e. use of .crit phrase, must be seen and evaluated by the Attending ED Physician. The Attending Physician should assist with management of the patient and document in the patient s record either an attestation or a complete note.
10. The PA is expected to complete accurate documentation of patient care by the end of the shift.
11. The PA will maintain positive relationships and communicate effectively with Physicians, staff, peers, consulting Physicians, patients, and their family members.

QUALITY ASSURANCE

1. 1. The Supervising Physician and Physician PA Liaison will collaborate with the PAs to maintain best practice by means of ongoing review of the PA s medical practice decisions and documentation. Failure to comply with the guidelines will result in follow-up and possible disciplinary action.
2. All PAs working for EPR will be directly supervised by a board-certified or board eligible Emergency Physician who is always present and available for consultation.
3. Performance assessments are held regularly and may provide additional feedback regarding patient care and overall performance.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

1. Practice efficiently.
2. Minimize complaints from patients, staff, and consultant colleagues.
3. Adhere to hospital and EPR policies.
4. Work when scheduled and arrive on time for shifts.
5. Complete administrative paperwork in a timely manner.
6. Strive to meet or exceed the majority of performance benchmarks (PPH, LOS, resource utilization, etc.).
7. Be dedicated to achieving and maintaining a high level of knowledge and skill.
8. Be receptive to feedback and adapt appropriately if performance or behavior issues arise.
9. Other duties as may be assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Licensed with the State of Colorado.
2. Physician Assistants AAPA Certified
3. Member of Hospital Medical Staff in good standing.

Compensation Information:
$78.00 / Hourly - $82.00 / Hourly