Physician Associate

Who We Are:

Neighborhood Health Center is a non-profit organization local to Portland, OR serving underserved patients in the areas of primary care, internal medicine, dental services and more. Our patient-centered approach to care honors the unique needs and circumstances of each individual patient. NHC sees people, not problems, and recognizes that the time spent as a patient in a doctors office is only one factor in a persons overall health. Our leading edge, integrated clinical teams work in partnership with patients, their families, and the communities we serve to provide whole-person care, prevention, and ongoing support.

NHC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate differences in the workplace and do not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (sex), national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

Why work with us?

• We are a non-profit organization, passionate about providing the underserved population with medical and dental services across the greater Portland area, committed to making a difference daily.
• We offer our employees a competitive compensation and benefits package which includes 20 days of PTO (based on full time employment), 9 paid holidays, health/dental/vision insurance, quarterly wellness reimbursements, generous 401k retirement plan with employer match, employer paid disability insurance, EAP and life insurance.
• Our employees voted NHC a Top Workplace in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024!

Job Title: Physician Associate
Department: Medical
Reports To: Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
Work Type: On-Site
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt
Language Differential: Eligible

SUMMARY

This position is responsible for providing primary care services, including assessing, diagnosing, prescribing, treating, and educating patients. Works closely with physicians and other clinicians in a team approach to patient care. May specialize in a specific type of clinical care, e.g., pediatrics, geriatrics.

Essential Job Duties

• Conducts physicals examinations and/or mental health assessments to address preventive, acute and chronic healthcare needs of patients.
• Performs, orders, and interprets diagnostic procedures and CLIA waived lab tests.
• Develops and implements treatment plan by prescribing/dispensing medications and/or injections in compliance with guidelines and state laws.
• Records findings and develops a plan of action based on the patient's health history and condition, and when necessary, consults with other providers to prepare a comprehensive care plan.
• Prepares documentation for medical records including updating medical charts by posting examination and test results, diagnosis, and medications.
• Collaborates with internal and external multidisciplinary teams to provide innovative and evidence-based care.
• Reviews patient chart notes, case summaries, and other relevant documentation and correspondence.
• Provides evening and weekend consultation on-call when scheduled.
• Participates in team huddles to review the schedule at the start of the clinic day.
• Participates in process and quality improvement workflows.
• Participates in peer reviews and chart reviews.
• Attends required meetings and participates in committees as requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and/or Experience

• Graduation from a nationally-accredited Physician Assistant/Associate training program is required.
• Successful completion of national certification exam is required.

License and/or Certification Requirements

• Nationally recognized and active certification is required.
• Unrestricted Oregon license with prescriptive authority is required.
• BLS and/or ACLS certification is required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Behaviors

• Knowledge of professional nursing theory, practices and regulations related to evaluating and providing patient care.
• Skill in oral and written communication including interviewing to gather medical histories, providing presentations, consultations, facilitation, and documentation, e.g., writing medical orders, patient education materials, and medical record updates.
• Ability to analyze complex data and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret, adapt and apply guidelines and procedures,
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with patients, staff, and the general public.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the delivery of health care to a diverse and underserved population.
• Ability to use good judgement in difficult situations.
• Ability to communicate professionally with peers, management, and patients alike.
• Ability to act as a leader to clinic support staff.
• Experience and proficiency using electronic health records.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Regularly sit while working on the computer; use hands and fingers to handle, control or feel objects tools or controls; repeat the same movements when entering data; ability to differentiate between colors, shades, and brightness; read from a computer screen for extended periods of time.
• Frequently stand and walk around the office to gather supplies, required to do filing, use office equipment, or collaborate with employees.
• Occasionally stand, stoop and lift or move objects, equipment and supplies weighing approximately 20-25 pounds up to 40-50 pounds.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• Frequent exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, and other conditions common to a clinic environment.
• This position will primarily be used as a resource, covering at all NHC primary care clinics as needed.

Neighborhood Health Center Employment Offers are contingent on successful completion of reference checks, background checks, drug screening for illegal substances, Tuberculosis, and any position specific credentialing or licensure requirements.