Job Title: Orthopedic Physical Assistant
Location: Los Angeles CA
Employment Type: Full-time Permanent
The Orthopedic Physician Assistant works under the supervision of an orthopedic surgeon to provide high-quality care to patients with musculoskeletal conditions. This role includes patient assessment diagnosis treatment planning surgical assistance and post-operative care. The PA serves as an essential link between patients surgeons and the healthcare team ensuring seamless care delivery in both clinical and surgical settings.
Key Responsibilities
1. Patient Care & Clinical Duties
Conduct comprehensive patient evaluations including medical history physical examinations and diagnostic interpretation (X-rays MRIs lab results).
Diagnose and manage orthopedic conditions such as fractures joint injuries arthritis and sports-related injuries.
Prescribe medications therapies and other treatments as appropriate within scope of practice.
Perform joint injections splinting casting wound care and suture removal.
Counsel patients and families on treatment options surgical procedures rehabilitation and preventative care.
2. Surgical Assistance
Assist orthopedic surgeons during procedures including joint replacements arthroscopies fracture repairs and ligament reconstructions.
Prepare the operating room instruments and equipment.
Handle intraoperative tasks such as tissue retraction suturing and hemostasis.
Ensure post-operative orders are implemented and monitored.
3. Post-Operative & Follow-Up Care
Monitor patients during recovery assess healing progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Coordinate with physical therapists occupational therapists and nursing staff for rehabilitation.
Provide wound management dressing changes and pain management strategies.
4. Administrative & Coordination Tasks
Document patient encounters procedures and progress notes in the electronic medical record (EMR).
Assist in scheduling surgeries follow-up visits and diagnostic imaging.
Participate in case reviews departmental meetings and continuing education activities.
Qualifications
Education: Masters degree from an accredited Physician Assistant program.
Licensure: Current state PA license and NCCPA certification.
Experience: Prior orthopedic or surgical experience preferred (new graduates with strong clinical rotations in orthopedics may be considered).
Skills:
Strong knowledge of orthopedic anatomy physiology and pathology.
Proficiency in interpreting imaging studies.
Excellent surgical assisting and procedural skills.
Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Orthopedic Physician Assistant (PA)
