Physician Assistant (Gastroenterology)

The Physician Assistant (PA) in Gastroenterology will primarily support the Advanced GI clinic at the Salisbury VA Medical Center, with limited flexibility to practice general gastroenterology at locations in Salisbury, Kernersville, or Charlotte. The PA will be fully qualified and certified to function in a clinical role in accordance with the guidelines and policies of the facility. Key responsibilities include: - Providing comprehensive patient care in the Advanced GI clinic, focusing on pancreaticobiliary disease and advanced endoscopy procedures such as EUS and ERCP. - Performing patient histories and physical examinations. - Formulating and implementing treatment plans for assigned patients. - Utilizing the principles of PA practice to deliver appropriate, evidence-based care. - Analyzing and solving complex medical problems, particularly in the context of advanced gastroenterology. - Functioning autonomously and making independent medical decisions as needed. - Collaborating effectively within an interdisciplinary team to improve patient care services. - Coordinating all aspects of patient care across the healthcare system, including telehealth medical care when applicable. - Serving as a mentor for transitioning PAs and providing training for healthcare students at the full performance level. - Leading and organizing patient care independently, utilizing advanced clinical knowledge and judgment in decision-making and evaluating outcomes. - Practicing collaboratively with colleagues and peers to ensure high-quality care.

Basic Requirements: - Master's degree in any discipline, OR a bachelor's degree in any discipline with one year of experience as a Physician Assistant. - Successful completion of the PA National Certifying Exam (PANCE) or current enrollment in the exam process. - Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice as a Physician Assistant in a State, Territory, Commonwealth of the United States, or the District of Columbia. Graduate PAs without licensure may be appointed temporarily for up to two years under specific authority, but cannot be promoted until certification is obtained. - Note: Individuals with revoked or surrendered licenses due to professional misconduct, incompetence, or substandard care are not eligible unless the license is fully restored. Preferred Experience: - Experience in pancreaticobiliary disease and advanced endoscopy procedures (EUS/ERCP) is highly desired. Grade Determinations: - PA-I (Entry Level): No experience beyond basic requirements; must demonstrate ability to utilize PA principles, perform patient history and physical, formulate treatment plans, and provide care abreast of advancements. - PA-II (Intermediate Level): Two years of successful practice as a PA, OR completion of a VHA-sponsored or accredited PA post-graduate residency program, OR a doctoral degree in a health-related field. Must demonstrate skills to analyze complex medical problems, function autonomously, incorporate training into practice, work in interdisciplinary environments, and collaborate with colleagues. - PA-III (Full Performance Level): Three years of successful practice as a PA, OR completion of a VHA-sponsored or accredited PA post-graduate residency program. Must demonstrate ability to lead and organize patient care independently, practice within multidisciplinary teams, coordinate care across the system, utilize advanced clinical judgment, and serve as a mentor or trainer.

The Veterans Health Administration operates the VA St. Louis Health Care System, providing comprehensive healthcare services to veterans. This role involves executive leadership in patient care services.