Physician Assistant – PRN

Job Description –Physician Assistant – PRN

Hours: PRN. 1-3 shifts per calendar quarter.

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Direct Supervisor: Medical Director

Job Purpose:

Performs direct patient care in hospital setting under the supervision of a physician and provides direction to other professional personnel such as RNs/LPNs in the provision of direct patient care. Participates in performance and CQI activities.

Competencies:

• Demonstrates the ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
• Understands HIPAA and confidentiality laws.
• Displays sound theoretical knowledge of addiction and treatment interventions.
• Understands compliance as it relates to the facilities licensing entities. Demonstrates thorough understanding of local, state, federal regulations Joint Commission, DCF standards.
• Demonstrates the knowledge of proper identification and reporting of medical/healthcare errors and protects the patient in the event one occurs. Assists in the resolution.
• Demonstrates the ability to select appropriate treatment methods and use these methods in individual patient treatment plans.
• Demonstrates the ability to act as a liaison between patients, each hospital, and the community.
• Functions as a member of the healthcare team for the benefit of the patient.
• Understands the admissions process and managed care relationships.
• Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of physiology and human anatomy and appropriate medical knowledge. Demonstrates knowledge of pain management protocols used in each facility.
• Exercises excellent judgment for patients that require consultation, referral, or evaluation by the supervising physician or other healthcare professional.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Completes History and Physicals and/or psychiatric evaluations as credentialed by the Board of Directors and under the direction of the Medical Director and/or Psychiatrist in a complete and timely manner and indicates potential problems.
• Obtains and documents patients’ medical histories. As credentialed, will assess patients for signs and symptoms of withdrawal and /or psychiatric issues and will accurately document these assessments. Follows up, as needed, for additional medical treatment due to increase in signs and symptoms.
• Assesses and documents patients and/or family’s psychosocial issues, makes referrals as needed.
• Performs and/or orders diagnostic and therapeutic procedures/tests. Explains all tests/procedures to patient/family including any pre-testing requirements.
• Interprets subjective and objective data to formulate a diagnosis. Interprets laboratory and diagnostic test results. Formulates diagnoses and treats illnesses within scope of practice.
• Formulates patient treatment plans within the PA’s scope of practice.
• Implements therapeutic interventions when appropriate within scope of practice.
• Assists in the management of acutely traumatized patients and cares for minor injuries.
• Provides counseling/education for patients and families on preventative healthcare. Directly participate in the development and implementation of educational lecture programs. Facilitates lecture sessions when indicated.
• Always defers to the physician with difficult cases or when a case is out of the scope of practice for a physician’s assistant.
• Orders and prescribes drugs and medical devices within scope of practice.
• Work with sufficient hours to ensure effective performance. Take call to handle admissions and emergency situations. Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
• Writes progress notes and discharge summaries.
• Communicates appropriately and clearly to supervising physician, nurses, and hospital staff. Maintains a good working relationship within the hospital. Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity.
• Provides direct supervision to nursing staff regarding interventions, discharge planning, family work, and established treatment goals.
• Participates in the development of program policies and procedures. Participates in committees as instructed by the Chief Medical Officer.
• Completes one call per week and one weekend rotation per month at minimum.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Essential Experience:

At least one (1) year of experience in PA position with direct contact with patients. Experience in behavior health or chemical dependency is strongly preferred.

A proven track record of great patient and staff interaction with the ability to properly and appropriately assess and care for patients under the supervision of a physician. Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations relating to substance abuse programs and knowledge of Joint Commission and DCF requirements is preferred.

A license in the state of Florida as a PA is required. Must have a valid DEA license. CMEs must be completed as required every two years for the profession.

Education:

Master’s degree in health sciences or related program. Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program.