Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma Career Overview
As a Surgical Physician Assistant (PA), you play a significant role in the healthcare team, specifically in the surgical environment. Your responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks that are essential for the success of surgical procedures and patient care.
Key aspects of your role include:
Preoperative Care: You conduct thorough assessments of patients, reviewing their medical history and performing physical examinations to prepare them for surgery. This phase often includes educating patients about the procedures they will undergo and addressing any concerns.
Assisting During Surgery: In the operating room, you work alongside surgeons, providing hands-on assistance. This may involve suturing, managing surgical instruments, and ensuring that the surgery proceeds safely and efficiently.
Postoperative Management: Following surgery, you monitor patients’ recovery in the hospital or surgical center. This involves evaluating vital signs, managing pain levels, and monitoring for any complications that may arise.
Collaboration: Your role requires close collaboration with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Effective communication is imperative to ensure high-quality patient care and optimal surgical outcomes.
Patient Education: You facilitate the education process for patients and their families regarding postoperative care, rehabilitation, and what to expect during recovery.
The importance of your role as a Surgical Physician Assistant cannot be overstated. You contribute to improved patient outcomes by ensuring that surgical procedures run smoothly and that patients receive comprehensive care throughout their surgical experience. Your expertise enhances the efficiency of the surgical team, ultimately playing a vital role in the healthcare system.
Surgical Physician Assistant Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma
To become a Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma, you need to obtain specific educational qualifications and complete relevant training programs. Here is what you need to pursue:
Bachelor's Degree: First, you should earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While there is no specific major required, degrees in health sciences, biology, or related fields are common choices that can provide a strong foundation.
Physician Assistant Program: After completing your bachelor’s degree, you must enroll in a Physician Assistant program that is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). This program typically culminates in a Master's degree and includes coursework in medical sciences, diagnostic procedures, and clinical medicine.
Surgical Rotation: During your Physician Assistant education, you will participate in clinical rotations that should include a surgical rotation. This hands-on training is crucial for gaining real-world experience in the surgical setting.
Certification: Upon completion of your Physician Assistant program, you must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to become a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C). This certification is necessary to practice in the field.
State Licensure: Finally, you will need to obtain a state license to practice as a Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma, which requires submitting proof of your educational qualifications, passing the PANCE, and meeting any additional state requirements.
By following these educational and training pathways, you can position yourself for a career as a Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma.
Best Schools to become a Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma 2024
University of Lynchburg
Nova Southeastern University
MCPHS University
Touro University
South College
A T Still University of Health Sciences
- Provide healthcare services typically performed by a physician, under the supervision of a physician.
- Conduct complete physicals, provide treatment, and counsel patients.
- May, in some cases, prescribe medication.
- Must graduate from an accredited educational program for physician assistants.
Surgical Physician Assistant Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
Clinical Knowledge: You must possess a strong understanding of surgical procedures, anatomy, and patient care principles. This knowledge helps you assist surgeons effectively and make informed decisions in the operating room.
Technical Proficiency: You need to be skilled in using surgical instruments and equipment. Familiarity with various surgical techniques and procedures is essential to assist during operations efficiently.
Communication Skills: Clear communication with surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff is vital. You should be able to convey information accurately and ensure everyone is on the same page regarding patient care and surgical procedures.
Attention to Detail: Precision is critical in surgery. You should exhibit a keen eye for details to minimize errors and ensure patient safety throughout the surgical process.
Problem-Solving: You will often face unexpected situations in the operating room. Your ability to think critically and adapt quickly in these moments is key to ensuring patient outcomes.
Team Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a surgical team is necessary. You must be adaptable and able to collaborate seamlessly with other healthcare professionals to create a supportive environment for patient care.
Patient Assessment: Proficiency in evaluating patients' medical histories and understanding their needs helps you participate in preoperative assessments, postoperative care, and patient education.
Time Management: The ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently is important in a surgical setting. You should prioritize responsibilities to maintain workflow and support busy surgical teams.
Emotional Resilience: Surgery can be high-pressure and emotionally charged. You should maintain composure during stressful situations and provide compassionate patient care.
Ethical and Professional Standards: Demonstrating integrity, confidentiality, and adherence to ethical guidelines is essential. You should understand the legal and ethical responsibilities that come with patient care.
Continuing Education: Staying current with surgical advancements, techniques, and shifts in best practices through ongoing education and training is necessary for your career growth and effectiveness as a Surgical Physician Assistant.
Job Duties for Surgical Physician Assistants
Interpret diagnostic test results for deviations from normal.
Make tentative diagnoses and decisions about management and treatment of patients.
Prescribe therapy or medication with physician approval.
Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
Medical software
- Epic Systems
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Reading work related information
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma
The job market for Surgical Physician Assistants in Oklahoma is notably dynamic, reflecting broader trends in the healthcare industry. Several key factors contribute to the current landscape of opportunities in this field.
Growing Demand: As healthcare needs continue to expand, the demand for Surgical Physician Assistants is on the rise. Oklahoma's aging population and increasing prevalence of chronic conditions necessitate more surgical interventions, driving the need for skilled professionals in this specialty.
Expansion of Healthcare Facilities: Oklahoma has witnessed the establishment and expansion of various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialized clinics. This growth creates additional roles for Surgical Physician Assistants, particularly in urban and suburban areas.
Diverse Specialties: Surgical Physician Assistants can find opportunities across multiple specialties, including general surgery, orthopedics, cardiovascular surgery, and minimally invasive procedures. This variety allows you to align your career path with your interests and expertise, enhancing job satisfaction.
Geographical Hotspots: The most significant concentrations of job opportunities for Surgical Physician Assistants in Oklahoma typically occur in metropolitan areas such as:
- Oklahoma City: As the state capital, this city boasts numerous hospitals, surgical centers, and a vibrant healthcare sector.
- Tulsa: Known for its robust healthcare system, Tulsa offers various surgical specialties and an increasing number of ambulatory surgical facilities.
- Norman: Home to the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Norman provides opportunities for collaboration in academic and clinical settings.
Focus on Rural Health: There is also a growing emphasis on improving healthcare access in rural areas of Oklahoma. Surgical Physician Assistants are valuable assets in these communities, often serving as key providers in hospitals and clinics, where they can significantly impact patient care.
Networking Opportunities: Engaging with local and state professional organizations can help you establish connections within the medical community. Joining groups such as the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants (OAPA) can provide resources and information about job openings, continuing education, and career advancement.
Job Growth Projections: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued growth for physician assistants overall, which is likely to apply to Surgical Physician Assistants specifically due to the increasing complexity of surgical procedures and the necessity for high-quality surgical care.
The current job market in Oklahoma for Surgical Physician Assistants presents promising opportunities driven by demand, facility expansions, and a focus on diverse specialties. Engaging with the local healthcare community can further enhance your career prospects in this evolving field.
Top Related Careers to Surgical Physician Assistant 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
Website: www.nccpa.net
This organization provides certification and maintenance of certification for Physician Assistants. Keep abreast of certification requirements specific to surgical physician assistants.American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA)
Website: www.aapa.org
AAPA is a national organization that provides resources, educational materials, and updates on policy changes affecting Physician Assistants.Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants (OAPA)
Website: www.oapanet.org
This state-specific organization offers networking opportunities, advocacy for legislative changes, and resources particular to practicing in Oklahoma.Association of Surgical Physician Assistants (ASPA)
Website: www.aspanet.org
The ASPA provides professional development, education, and advocacy tailored to surgical physician assistants.Journals and Publications
Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants
Website: jaapa.com
This publication offers peer-reviewed articles on clinical practices, advocacy updates, and educational resources for PAs, including surgical practices.Surgical Physician Assistant Journal
Search on academic databases for access to articles related to surgical practices and advancements in the field.
Educational Programs and Certification Boards
- Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)
Website: www.arc-pa.org
This organization oversees PA educational programs, ensuring they meet standards set for quality education.
- Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA)
Continuing Medical Education (CME) Resources
- Medscape CME
Website: www.medscape.com
Offers a variety of CME opportunities covering surgical skills, advancements, and emerging practices within the surgical PA field.
- Medscape CME
Government and State Resources
- Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision
Website: www.okmedicalboard.org
This site provides important information regarding licensing, regulations, and updates on the practice of medicine, including the role of surgical PAs.
- Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision
Networking and Career Development
- LinkedIn Groups
Search for groups related to Surgical Physician Assistants to connect with other professionals, share job postings, and participate in discussions relevant to your career.
- LinkedIn Groups
Utilizing these resources will enhance your knowledge, expand your professional network, and keep you informed about the evolving landscape of the surgical physician assistant role in Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma
What does a Surgical Physician Assistant do?
A Surgical Physician Assistant (PA) assists surgeons in the operating room, manages patient care pre- and post-operatively, performs physical exams, orders and interprets tests, and provides education to patients and their families.What qualifications do I need to become a Surgical Physician Assistant?
You need a master’s degree from an accredited PA program and to pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). A background in healthcare, such as nursing or previous experience as a medical assistant, is often beneficial.Is certification necessary for a Surgical Physician Assistant?
Yes, certification is important. After completing your PA program, you must obtain certification by passing the PANCE. Additionally, some PAs choose to seek specialty certification in surgery through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).How long does it take to become a Surgical Physician Assistant?
Generally, it takes about 6 to 7 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, followed by 2 to 3 years in a master’s PA program.What is the job outlook for Surgical Physician Assistants in Oklahoma?
The job outlook is positive. The demand for healthcare services is expected to grow, leading to an increased need for PAs, especially in surgical settings.What is the typical salary for a Surgical Physician Assistant in Oklahoma?
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and type of facility. As of 2023, the average salary for Surgical PAs in Oklahoma generally ranges from $90,000 to $130,000 per year.What types of surgeries will I assist with as a Surgical Physician Assistant?
You may assist with a variety of surgical procedures, including but not limited to orthopedic, cardiovascular, general, and neurosurgical surgeries.Can I specialize in a specific area of surgery as a Surgical Physician Assistant?
Yes, many Surgical PAs choose to specialize in areas like cardiothoracic, orthopedic, or pediatric surgery. Specialization can enhance your skills and career opportunities.What skills are important for a Surgical Physician Assistant?
Key skills include strong communication, teamwork, clinical assessment, critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills related to surgical procedures and instruments.Are there opportunities for advancement as a Surgical Physician Assistant?
Yes, advancement opportunities exist. You may move into leadership roles, specialize further in a particular field, or transition into education or administrative positions within healthcare.