Contract Full-Time
Walla Walla, WA
99362

Physician Assistant Surgery-General

Position Summary

The General Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) provides high-quality medical care under the supervision of a licensed General Surgeon. The PA is responsible for evaluating patients, assisting in surgical procedures, managing pre- and postoperative care, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to ensure optimal patient outcomes. This role requires strong clinical judgment, procedural skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced surgical environment.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Duties

  • Perform comprehensive patient assessments, including medical histories and physical examinations
  • Diagnose and develop treatment plans for surgical patients in collaboration with supervising physicians
  • Order, interpret, and evaluate diagnostic tests (laboratory, imaging, etc.)
  • Provide preoperative and postoperative care, including wound management and follow-up evaluations
  • Manage inpatient and outpatient surgical patients

Surgical Support

  • First or second assist in the operating room across various general surgery procedures
  • Prepare and maintain sterile fields
  • Perform minor surgical procedures (e.g., suturing, incision and drainage, abscess management)
  • Handle surgical instruments and anticipate surgeon needs during procedures

Patient Care & Education

  • Educate patients and families on diagnoses, treatment plans, surgical procedures, and recovery expectations
  • Provide discharge instructions and follow-up care guidance
  • Promote preventive care and patient safety

Administrative & Documentation

  • Document patient encounters accurately and in a timely manner within the EMR system
  • Participate in care coordination and multidisciplinary rounds
  • Ensure compliance with hospital policies, regulatory standards, and clinical protocols

Collaboration

  • Work closely with surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals
  • Participate in case discussions and clinical decision-making
  • Contribute to quality improvement initiatives

Qualifications

Required

  • Master’s degree from an accredited Physician Assistant program
  • Current certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
  • Active state PA license (or eligibility to obtain)
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred
  • Strong knowledge of general surgical procedures and patient care practices

Preferred

  • 1–3 years of experience in general surgery or surgical subspecialty
  • Experience in operating room assistance
  • Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems