• Obtains complete medical history and physical data on patients.
• Assesses patient health by interviewing patients, performing physical examinations, obtaining, updating and studying medical histories
• Interprets and integrates data to determine appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic procedures as needed.
• Performs complete physical exams and records findings. 
• Provides routine orthopaedic management of outpatient and inpatient care including ordering of diagnostic tests, labs, x-rays, and medications.
• Collaborates with physicians in managing acute and long-term medical needs of patients.
• Manage stable chronic disease in the scope of APPI expertise and refer patients with illness beyond the scope of expertise to the appropriate specialty or sub-specialty.
• Administers medications and injections within scope of expertise. Performs therapeutic procedures by administering injections and managing wounds.
• Interviews, educates, and advises patients and family regarding treatment, health and illness prevention.  Recommends community resources to meet patient and family needs.
• Maintains and reviews patient’s records, charts and other pertinent information.  Posts test and examination results.
• Uses Universal Precautions including personal protective equipment for anticipated contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials.
• Performs accurate and timely documentation patient care services by charting in the patient record.
• Flexibility to work a Saturday rotation and to work early/late hours in Ortho Access
• Assists physician with emergencies as required
• Instructs and counsels patients by describing therapeutic regimens and promoting wellness and health maintenance.
• Responds to telephone inquiries of patients and provides appropriate care.
• Works with the healthcare team by providing information and education.
• Practices a clinically sound continuum of care to ensure quality outcomes in an efficient and effective delivery of services.

• Maintains compliance with regulatory agencies and accrediting bodies both regionally and nationally.
• Maintains communication with physicians and staff regarding patient care.
• Demonstrates professionalism at all times
• Remains actively involved in continuing education with a commitment to self and departmental growth
• Keeps abreast of current issues involving patient care or practice issues by attending and participating in department, team and practice meetings
• Displays cooperative behavior and interacts positively and effectively with others to promote a team environment
• Performs other duties necessary to maintain the overall efficiency and continuity of the clinic
• Is proactive in identifying, reporting and participating in the resolution of any potential or actual patient safety issues

• Successful completion of accredited Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner program
• Current license issued by the State of Maine, or eligible for licensure
• Physician Assistant requires certification by NCCPA
• Previous orthopaedic experience required
• DEA registration required.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification required.
• Demonstrated clinical competence in relevant area of practice
• High level of organizational skills, effective time management and delegation strategies.
• Ability to make and communicate well-reasoned decisions, both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to see and articulate both the larger picture and operational steps needed to achieve practice-related goals and objectives.
• Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to interact effectively with patients, families and other health care providers.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment.
• Ability to interact with technical and non-technical personnel, particularly physicians.
• Proficient computer skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Requires regular clinical on-site availability 
• Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue
• Operation of various office equipment: fax machine, telephone and voice mail system, personal computer, e-mail system, cell phone, pager, and photocopier
• Operation of therapeutic and diagnostic medical equipment, administering therapeutic modalities
• May be required to sit or stand for long periods of time
• Frequent walking
• Occasional bending, reaching, twisting, pushing, pulling
• Saturday rotation and early/late hours
• Occasional after-hours meeting participation
• Filing and light lifting