(PA) Sr. Physician Assistant, Neurological Surgery - 136398

Under general supervision of the APP Supervisor for the Department of Neurological Surgery, the PA functions as a provider of patient care in Neurosurgery and utilizes operational knowledge and expertise in providing primary and/or specialized health care services to brain tumor, cerebrovascular, general, peripheral nerve and neuro-spine patients. Evaluates healthcare treatments for outpatient surgery patients coordinating with established surgical services. Participates in ongoing research and quality assurance studies. Functions as liaison to physicians, mid-levels, physical and occupational therapists. Position requires special knowledge, skills and abilities in the fields of neurosurgery and wound care. Performs other duties as assigned.

While not required, a cover letter is highly recommended when applying to this position.

• Must be a graduate from a physician assistant program approved by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).

• California Physician Assistant (PA) license.

• Current PA Certification from NCCPA.

• BLS and ACLS certifications at time of hire with commitment to get ART within six months of hire date.

• A minimum of one (1) year of experience as a licensed Nurse Practitioner in an acute care Neurosurgery, Neurology, General Surgery, or Cardiology setting.

• Theoretical background in: anatomy, physiology, general medicine, pulmonary, emergency and critical care medicine, management of common diseases, concepts of medicine and surgery, therapeutics including pharmacology, counseling techniques and interpersonal dynamics.

• Ability to perform initial history, and physical examination, identify major medical problems, and formulate appropriate plans of action.

• Ability to analyze and interpret data in a meaningful manner.

• Skills necessary to function as first assistant in operative procedures, and knowledge of operating room standards and techniques.

• Ability to maintain detailed medical information in an organized and easily retrievable manner.

• Knowledge of operating room standards and techniques.

• Knowledge necessary for instructing house staff, medical students, physicians, nurses, and other medical personnel in all aspects of surgical care.

• Knowledge of all types of treatment and modalities necessary for the patients care and well-being.

• Writing skills to prepare clear medical reports, laboratory data and progress notes, as well as policies, procedures and protocols for patient care management.

• Ability to perform various medical procedures, for diagnostic studies and therapeutic modalities.

• Working knowledge of medical terminology.

• Ability to be trained in the use of specialized medical equipment.

• Ability to properly counsel patients and families, particularly in delicate or death and dying situations.

• Ability to communicate effectively with patients and other health care personnel.

• Ability to maintain good working relationships and communications with physicians in-charge, laboratory personnel, and members of the health care team.

• Knowledge necessary for instructing house staff, medical students, physicians, nurses, and other medical personnel in all aspects of surgical care.

• Ability to write orders regarding execution of inpatient, outpatient plans of treatment.

• Ability to assess the daily status and progress of patients and report this effectively to the physician in-charge and other medical care personnel associated with the patient.

• Knowledge of all types of treatment and modalities necessary for the patients care and well-being and the skill in recording nursing/medical assessment findings accurately and completely.

• Skill at providing clear written, verbal and telephone communication with a wide variety of people.

• Knowledge of medical ethics and law practices, pertaining to medical and medical socioeconomics.

• Experience with neurosurgical procedures, including lumbar puncture, placement and removal of intracranial pressure monitoring devices, interrogation, adjustment, and access of ventriculoperitoneal shunts.

• Experience in inpatient surgical care.

• Knowledge of clinical and ancillary services within the UCSD Medical Center. Familiarity with practicing medicine in an academic setting.

• Experience with Epic EMR.

• Must be able to obtain UCSD medical staff privileges and maintain them during employment. Due to advanced practice credentialing eligibility, clinical advanced practice experience must be within the last two years, gained through school or work experience.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and a pre-employment physical.
• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs. Must be willing to work flexible, variable hours with the ability to change schedule on short notice. Position may occasionally require ability to work evenings/nights.
• Work location - Primary locations are MOP and Rancho Bernardo, but occasional coverage at affiliate sites may be required.