In a hospital setting, an orthopedic physician’s assistant is a highly trained health-care professional who assists a licensed orthopedic surgeon. He or she performs physical exams, diagnoses, and assists with clinical surgical procedures, among other advanced responsibilities. Following treatment, the assistant can apply a cast or brace to the patient and explain how to care for it at home. Many physician’s assistants serve as primary caregivers for patients, relieving busy surgeons of a significant amount of work.
Orthopedics is a broad field of medicine that deals with issues involving the musculoskeletal system. Surgery may be required to repair damaged tissue in patients who have broken bones, have congenital defects, or suffer from degenerative conditions like arthritis. An orthopedic physician’s assistant is critical in determining what is wrong with a patient and what treatment options are available. Based on x-ray results, a physical exam, and a thorough patient history, the assistant is heavily involved in making an initial diagnosis. He or she usually consults with a supervising orthopedic surgeon to ensure that they are on the same page regarding the best course of action.
The orthopedic physician’s assistant is usually in charge of preparing the operating room and informing the patient about the procedure when a person is scheduled for surgery. The assistant may go over the different types of anesthesia that will be used, as well as the specifics of the procedure and the risks involved. During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon relies on the assistant to have all of the necessary tools, screws, sutures, and other equipment on hand at all times.
A orthopedic physician’s assistant’s job also includes post-operative care. When necessary, an assistant can dress surgical wounds and apply splints and casts. He or she also arranges for physical rehabilitation and follow-up visits to monitor the patient’s progress.
In most countries, a person must have at least a bachelor’s degree with a medical focus, work experience in a health-care setting, and complete a licensed physician assistant program in order to work as an orthopedic physician’s assistant. The majority of programs last about two years and include both classroom and practical training. Many of the courses are the same as those taken prospective doctors in medical school. To earn official physician’s assistant credentials, a person must usually pass a regional or national licensing exam after completing a school program.
Physician’s assistants who have recently received their accreditation can apply for positions in hospitals and outpatient orthopedic health centers. A new employee can expect to spend several months learning specific policies, procedures, and legal issues from other assistants and surgeons. As professionals gain experience in the field, they typically gain more responsibilities. Some medical assistants choose to attend medical school while working in order to prepare for a future career as an orthopedic surgeon.