Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: Boise, ID
Job Type: Permanent
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
Job Description Apply Now
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) plays a crucial role in delivering advanced surgical care alongside a skilled multidisciplinary team. This position is ideal for physician assistants with proven experience in cardiothoracic surgery who are looking to join a robust and dynamic clinical environment. As a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C), you will directly impact patient outcomes by assisting in complex cardiac and thoracic surgical procedures, providing comprehensive care throughout the perioperative period, and contributing to the management of intensive care and step-down units. The role is designed for those passionate about high-acuity clinical practice and offers opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative and innovative surgical team.
Working as a Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) in Boise, Idaho, offers the chance to be part of a renowned cardiovascular program recognized for its excellence in surgical outcomes and patient-centered care. The local area is known for its vibrant community, offering a high quality of life, which complements the supportive environment provided by the hospital and its staff. This full-time position is structured to support work-life balance while maintaining a focus on clinical excellence and patient safety.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - SummaryThe Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) serves as a vital member of the cardiac surgical team, contributing to all phases of patient care. This includes first assisting in the operating room during cardiac and thoracic procedures, managing post-operative patients in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU), and overseeing patient transitions within the step-down unit. The PA-C works collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesiologists, perfusionists, and other advanced practice providers to ensure seamless and safe patient care delivery. The role offers a full continuum of care experience and the chance to develop advanced procedural skills in a specialized surgical setting.
Duties & Responsibilities- First assist in all types of cardiac and thoracic surgical operations, including open heart surgeries, aortic surgeries, minimally invasive valve procedures, and robotic-assisted thoracic surgeries.
- Provide ongoing management of patients in the CVICU and the step-down unit, including assessment, treatment planning, and monitoring of progress.
- Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, perfusionists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver coordinated patient care.
- Participate in the management and implantation of advanced cardiac support devices such as ECMO and Impella 5.5.
- Ensure continuity of care by conducting pre-operative and post-operative evaluations and supporting patient education.
- Document all patient encounters, surgical interventions, and care plans according to hospital policies and best practices.
- Participate in on-call rotation with equitable distribution among advanced practice providers (generally 7 nights per month).
- Engage in quality improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of protocols and best practices in cardiothoracic surgery.
- Comprehensive compensation package including a competitive salary and a generous $20,000 sign-on bonus.
- Extensive benefits package covering health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement plan with 403b options to support long-term financial security.
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Continuing Medical Education (CME) allocation for professional development.
- Relocation assistance for qualifying candidates.
- Schedule consists of four 10-hour shifts per week (typically 6am–4pm), supporting a healthy work-life balance.
- Minimal on-call requirements, shared fairly among the team.
- Current Physician Assistant licensure (PA-C) with eligibility to practice in the relevant state.
- Demonstrated experience in cardiothoracic surgery, including first assisting in cardiovascular and thoracic procedures.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification required.
- Ability to effectively manage critically ill patients in an intensive care setting.
- Strong documentation, communication, and teamwork skills.
- Knowledge of advanced cardiac support devices (ECMO, Impella) preferred but not required.
- Self-motivated and eager to work in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment.
- Demonstrates clinical competence, compassion, and a commitment to delivering exceptional patient care.
- Thrives in team-based settings and values interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Adaptable, with excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to patient management.
- Strong interest in ongoing learning and participation in professional development activities.
- The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will join a well-established practice with three experienced surgeons, eight advanced practice providers, four specialized CVOR anesthesiologists, and four perfusionists.
- The program performs over 350 open heart surgeries and 175 thoracic surgeries annually, including 80 robotic lobectomies, 160 TAVRs, and 75 MitraClips.
- Clinical focus areas include adult cardiac surgery, aortic and minimally invasive valve surgeries, robotic thoracic procedures, and hybrid maze procedures for atrial fibrillation.
- Opportunities for career advancement and skill development are available within the program.
If you are a dedicated Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) seeking an opportunity to grow your career in an innovative environment, we encourage you to apply now by clicking the job application button. Join a leading surgical team making a difference in patient lives every day!