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Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C)
Location: Southwestern, AZ
Job Type: Locum
Company: Palm Careers
Category: Healthcare
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) plays a vital role in supporting a high-performing cardiac surgery team, ensuring seamless patient care and surgical excellence. This position offers ongoing contract opportunities for experienced professionals seeking part-time, as-needed schedules to cover staff vacations and fluctuating caseloads. The role is based in a region known for its welcoming community and growing healthcare sector, providing a positive environment for both professional growth and work-life balance.
The Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) will collaborate closely with board-certified cardiac surgeons and multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive perioperative care. The physician assistant will spend a significant portion of their time in the operating room, assisting with a variety of complex cardiac surgical procedures. Outside the OR, responsibilities include patient rounding, managing post-operative care, completing necessary documentation, and ensuring all pre- and post-surgical protocols are thoroughly followed. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong clinical judgment, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering the highest standards of patient care in a dynamic and supportive work environment.
This contract engagement offers a competitive hourly rate, generous overtime compensation, and additional call pay. Comprehensive malpractice insurance coverage is provided, as well as support for travel, housing, and transportation as needed. The position is ideal for adaptable, highly skilled physician assistants who thrive in fast-paced cardiac surgery programs and are motivated to contribute to outstanding surgical outcomes.
We invite dedicated Cardiothoracic Physician Assistants (PA-C) to apply and become an integral part of a renowned cardiac care team. If you are passionate about perioperative care and ready to make a significant impact in a respected cardiac surgery program, please click the application button to submit your application today.
Cardiothoracic Physician Assistant (PA-C) - Summary
- Part-time, contract-based role supporting a busy cardiothoracic surgery practice
- Opportunity to work alongside experienced cardiac surgeons and a multidisciplinary team
- Involvement in a high-volume, high-acuity cardiac surgery program
- Flexible schedule with "as needed" shifts to cover ongoing staffing needs
Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist in the operating room for a wide range of cardiothoracic surgical procedures, accounting for approximately 50-60% of daily duties
- Conduct patient rounds in both ICU and general inpatient units
- Respond to inquiries and provide clinical guidance to nursing and office staff regarding patient care
- Complete detailed documentation, including progress notes, consults, H&P, and discharge summaries in the electronic health record (Epic)
- Prepare and review imaging, labs, and pre-op testing for upcoming cases to minimize delays or cancellations
- Enter necessary orders for upcoming surgical cases and ongoing patient care
- Discharge patients who are clinically ready, and coordinate follow-up care as needed
- Order and interpret laboratory tests, chest x-rays, and other diagnostic assessments as required
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive hourly compensation structure
- Overtime paid at 1.5x base rate for hours exceeding 40 per week
- Generous call pay
- Professional malpractice insurance coverage included
- Comprehensive support for housing, travel, rental car, and mileage as applicable
Qualifications & Requirements
- Current and valid Physician Assistant (PA-C) certification
- Licensure in good standing in the relevant state
- Significant experience in cardiothoracic or cardiac surgery settings preferred
- Proficiency with electronic medical records (Epic preferred)
- Strong organizational, communication, and clinical assessment skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Flexibility to adapt to varying schedules and coverage needs
Ideal Candidate Snapshot
- Experienced in perioperative management of cardiothoracic surgery patients
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize effectively in high-volume, fast-paced clinical settings
- Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to patient safety
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate clearly with multidisciplinary teams
- Motivated to contribute positively to a collaborative and supportive cardiac surgery program
Other Relevant Information
- This contract opportunity provides exposure to a robust and growing cardiac surgery program performing over 300 cases annually
- Part-time, ongoing contract position designed to provide outstanding work-life balance and professional development
- The area is recognized for its friendly environment and excellent quality of life, making it an appealing location for healthcare professionals
- Applicants are encouraged to apply promptly by clicking the job application button to join this esteemed cardiac care team
- We are committed to equal employment opportunity and inclusive hiring practices