How to Be Orthopedic Physicians Assistant - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 8, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The demand for Orthopedic Physician's Assistants (OPAs) has grown significantly in recent years due to a rising need for skilled medical professionals to provide care in orthopedic settings. As the population ages, the need for specialized orthopedic care continues to increase, leading to an increased demand for OPAs who can provide assistance in surgeries, treatments and therapies. In addition, the implementation of new technology, such as robotic-assisted surgery and computer-assisted motion analysis, has created a greater need for OPAs who are knowledgeable in the use of these cutting-edge tools.

Furthermore, the growing awareness of the importance of preventive care and proactive medical treatments has also led to a rise in demand for OPAs who can provide such services. All of these factors have contributed to the current shortage of OPAs across the country, leading to higher salaries and increased job security for those working in the field.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Most Orthopedic Physician's Assistants have at least a Bachelor's degree, typically in a healthcare-related field such as Pre-med, Biology, Exercise Science, or Health Science.
Complete an Accredited Physician Assistant Program. Most Orthopedic Physician's Assistants complete a two-year accredited Physician Assistant program, which must include clinical rotations that specialize in Orthopedics.
Obtain Licensure. After completing an accredited Physician Assistant program and passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), Physician's Assistants must obtain licensure in the state where they intend to practice.
Obtain Certification. Although certification is not required for all Orthopedic Physician's Assistants, it may be beneficial for those seeking additional roles and responsibilities in the field. The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) offers certification for those who meet the requirements.
Gain Experience. Once certified, Orthopedic Physician's Assistants can gain experience through internships, residencies, or fellowships. This experience can help to broaden their knowledge and skills and make them more attractive to potential employers.
Maintain Certification. In order to remain certified, Physician's Assistants must complete continuing education requirements and pass the PANCE exam every 10 years.

In order to stay ahead and competent as an Orthopedic Physician's Assistant, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. This requires a commitment to continuing education, staying informed about the latest research, and keeping abreast of changes in treatment protocols. it is beneficial to network with other healthcare professionals, attend conferences and seminars, and participate in professional organizations.

By doing these things, Orthopedic Physician's Assistants can stay current on new developments in their field, stay informed on changes in technology and protocols, and gain valuable insight into their profession. This will ensure that they remain knowledgeable and competent in their roles as Orthopedic Physician's Assistants.

You may want to check Orthopedic Physical Therapist, Orthopedic Medical Records Administrator, and Orthopedic Physical Therapist Assistant for alternative.

Job Description

Perform physical exams and review patients' medical histories.
Assist orthopedic surgeons with pre-operative and post-operative care.
Administer injections, medication, and other treatments.
Provide education to patients regarding their conditions, treatments, and self-care strategies.
Order, interpret, and evaluate diagnostic tests such as x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
Interpret laboratory results and order additional tests as needed.
Participate in the development of the patients treatment plan.
Provide assistance in the operating room to include scrubbing, setting up equipment, assisting during the procedure, and providing post-operative care.
Document all patient information in accordance with established standards.
Monitor patient progress and report any changes to the physician.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
Knowledge of medical terminology
Ability to perform clinical tasks such as taking vital signs
Ability to assess orthopedic injuries and illnesses
Ability to assist with patient diagnosis and treatment plans
Ability to perform physical exams and order diagnostic tests
Ability to provide patient education and instructions
Knowledge of orthopedic procedures, casts, splints and braces
Knowledge of medications and their effects
Excellent communication skills
Computer literacy
Professionalism and interpersonal skills
Problem-solving skills
Time management and organization skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

The role of an Orthopedic Physician's Assistant (OPA) is highly complex and requires a great deal of knowledge and skill. The most important skill for an OPA to have is the ability to provide comprehensive care for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. This requires a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics.

They must be able to interpret orthopedic imaging, diagnose orthopedic conditions, and develop treatment plans. OPAs must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients and their families. Furthermore, they need to be able to effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.

an OPA's success depends on their ability to evaluate and diagnose orthopedic conditions quickly and accurately, as well as their ability to develop effective treatment plans.

Orthopedic Equipment Technician, Orthopedic Clinical Research Associate, and Orthopedic Insurance Biller are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in an orthopedic setting?
How have you handled difficult patient interactions in the past?
How do you stay up to date with orthopedic treatments and technologies?
What do you consider to be the most important qualities of an orthopedic physicians assistant?
Describe a time when you had to multitask and manage multiple patients at once.
What strategies do you use to ensure accuracy and positive outcomes when dealing with complex medical cases?
What do you consider to be the most difficult parts of being an orthopedic physicians assistant?
How would you handle a situation in which a patient was not following your instructions?
How do you build trust and rapport with patients?
What methods do you use to collect and analyze patient data?

Common Tools in Industry

Joint Manipulation Tools. Used to manipulate and align bones and joints for surgery, rehabilitation, or treatment. (Eg: forceps, bone saws, rasps, osteotomes)
Casting and Splinting Materials. Used to stabilize and immobilize injured or fractured bones. (Eg: plaster, fiberglass, casting tape)
Physical Therapy Equipment. Used to facilitate rehabilitation and improve range of motion. (Eg: exercise balls, resistance bands, balance boards)
Imaging Equipment. Used to diagnose and monitor orthopedic conditions. (Eg: X-rays, CT scans, MRI machines)
Surgical Instruments. Used to perform orthopedic surgeries. (Eg: drill bits, retractors, clamps)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Academy of Orthopaedic Physician Assistants (AAOPA)
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)
American Association of Surgical Physician Assistants (AASPA)
American Osteopathic Association of Physician Assistants (AOAPA)
Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB)
National Association of Orthopaedic Technologists (NAOT)
American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA)
Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Association (OPTA)
International Society of Orthopaedic Physician Assistants (ISOPA)
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

We also have Orthopedic Surgery Scheduler, Orthopedic Coder, and Orthopedic Patient Advocate jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Orthopedic Surgery. A medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system.
Musculoskeletal System. The system in the body consisting of muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues that support and enable movement.
Diagnosis. The process of determining the cause of a medical condition by examining a patient's symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
Treatment. The medical management of a medical condition, which may include medications, lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, or surgery.
Physical Therapy. A type of rehabilitative treatment that uses exercises, stretches, and massage to help restore mobility, strength, and range of motion.
Rehabilitation. The process of restoring a person's physical functioning after an injury or illness.
Imaging Tests. Tests used to examine the body for disease or injury, such as X-rays and MRIs.
Intraoperative Care. Medical care provided during a surgical procedure.
Preoperative Care. Medical care provided before a surgical procedure to prepare a patient for the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Orthopedic Physician's Assistant?

An Orthopedic Physician's Assistant (PA) is a healthcare professional who works under the direct supervision of an orthopedic physician to diagnose, treat and manage musculoskeletal conditions.

What type of education is required to become an Orthopedic PA?

In order to become an Orthopedic PA, one must complete a physician assistant program accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant and obtain a license from the state in which they will practice.

What are some common duties of an Orthopedic PA?

Common duties of an Orthopedic PA include conducting physical exams, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, providing patient education and counseling, performing joint injections and other minor procedures, and assisting in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

How long does it typically take to complete an Orthopedic PA program?

Most Orthopedic PA programs take approximately two years to complete, including classroom instruction, lab work and clinical rotations.

What is the average salary for an Orthopedic PA?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for an Orthopedic PA as of May 2020 was $103,010 per year.

Web Resources

Physician Assistants in Orthopedic Surgery | Jobs, Requirements www.physicianassistantedu.org
Orthopaedic Surgery Physician Assistant Residency www.fresno.ucsf.edu
Physician Assistant Fellowship, Orthopedic Sports Medicine college.mayo.edu