Inpatient Physician Assistant

The Physician Assistant (PA) is responsible for assisting the Program Attending physicians in the medical management of hematologic (including BMT) and solid tumor oncology patients, as well as patients receiving elective chemotherapy. Inpatient PAs will be expected to collaborate and cross- train with all of the inpatient teams. The PA works closely with the physician and nursing staff to develop and coordinate a plan of care designed to meet the physical, psychological and social needs of patients and their families. Professional collaboration between inpatient and the ambulatory setting is expected by all PAs.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manages all aspects of patient care in collaboration with his/her supervising MD and care team.
• Examines patients to obtain information about their physical condition.
• Orders and interprets diagnostic test results to obtain pertinent medical information.
• Obtains, compiles, and records patient medical data which may include admission and discharge notes, daily progress notes and results of examinations.
• Prescribes therapy or medications and performs procedures according to DFCI privileges.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with all members of the care team and all DF/BW staff.
• Participates in quality improvement projects and patient safety initiatives.
• Practices in an efficient manner without compromising high level of patient care.
• Works well with and coordinates care amongst attendings, consulting teams, nurses, social worker and other healthcare professionals promoting excellence in patient care.
• Adheres to documentation of notes based on standard practice of program.
• Participates in precepting of students after training completed. May begin earlier or later based on Chief PA or supervising MD recommendation. (Inpatient Chief PAs must approve inpatient PA preceptors. Proctoring may be recommended for PAs who are unable to participate in the PA student preceptor program.)
• Works well and coordinates care amongst attendings, consulting teams, nurses, ESAs, business specialists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals promoting excellence in patient care.
• Responds appropriately to difficult situations, personalities, and is able maintain composure and work with all members of healthcare team.
• Acts as a role model to less experienced PAs.
• Displays flexibility and a willingness to adapt to the needs of the program as a whole.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Expert knowledge of general medicine and preferable exposure to hematology/oncology and/or inpatient medicine. Ability to incorporate knowledge of general internal medicine and medical complications unique to oncology patients in day to day management of patients will be required.
• Must be professional, quality driven, and have the proven ability to work well within a cohesive group of peers. Exercises the highest level of professional judgment and will exercise independent originality in solving problems. Strong communication skills and sound judgment.
• Possesses the maturity and confidence to work closely with clinicians, therapists, and team members across the organization. Ability to build working relationships amongst his/her peers and other team members working with inpatient oncology patients.
• Demonstrates a commitment to ongoing clinical education and training and exhibits expert knowledge of inpatient oncology and general medicine.
• Able to accept instruction and guidance and assume graded responsibility in complex teamwork, while demonstrating an understanding of procedures, policies and documentation required to facilitate PA compliance with hospital standards of care.
• Demonstrates ability to work collaboratively with all members of the care team and all DF/BW staff.

Minimum Job Qualifications:

Master's Degree and successful completion of an AAPA/NCCPA accredited Physician Assistant Studies program.

License/Certification/Registration Required

Must be NCCPA Certified and licensed to practice as a Physician Assistant in Massachusetts. Must maintain current DEA and Massachusetts Controlled Substance Licenses and complete 100 hours of CME according to national and state regulations during each 2 year period of employment.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Patient Contact

Yes, provides direct care to adult patients.