Experienced professional healthcare provider with demonstrated ability to deliver patient care and support in diverse hospital, clinical, and operative settings. Strong focus on collaborative efforts and adaptability to meet evolving healthcare needs. Skilled in patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, first/second assisting in surgery as well as skilled in performing surgical procedures. Known for reliability, effective communication, and results-driven approach.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Physician Assistant
Harry S Truman Veterans' Hospital
12.2013 - Current
Assisted in patient evaluations and examinations, ensuring thorough documentation of medical histories for several different surgical specialties inclusive of General Surgery, Colorectal surgery, Surgical Oncology, Neurosurgery with focus on Spine surgery, and Orthopedic Spine surgery service
Performed procedures autonomously for simple surgical procedures "lumps and bumps" clinic
Collaborated with healthcare teams to develop patient care plans based on individual needs.
Assisted with surgical scheduling and perioperative work-up and clinical preparation for patients.
Educated patients on treatment options and preventive care measures to enhance health outcomes.
Instructed patients and families on medical diagnoses and treatment options.
Developed strong rapport with colleagues and staff members, promoting teamwork within the workplace environment.
Implemented evidence-based practices into daily work routine, enhancing overall effectiveness of clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.
Served as a mentor to medical students, residents, Physician Assistant students fostering growth in clinical knowledge and skills.
Physician Assistant
Columbia Orthopedic Group
12.2011 - 12.2013
Surgical Care for Orthopedic patients with a focus on shoulder and elbow surgery.
Conducted comprehensive patient assessments to develop and implement tailored treatment plans.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance patient care through effective communication and coordination.
Utilized electronic health record systems to document patient information accurately and maintain confidentiality.
Educated patients on treatment options, preventive care, and management of chronic conditions to improve health outcomes.
First Assist in the OR.
Physician Assistant
University of MIssouri Hospital
09.1997 - 01.2013
1997-2003 Provided comprehensive care to Cardiothoracic patients inclusive of clinic coverage, Assistance in the OR inclusive of first/second assist for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgeries and Aortic and Mitral Valve surgeries and vein harvest during Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery. Also provided coverage in the ICU and covered call during these 6 years.
2003- 2013 Provided Surgical ICU coverage three nights a week for the Surgical/Trauma Intensive Care Unit. This was inclusive of presenting for Class I traumas in the Emergency room and care of critical, and more stable post-operative surgical patients in the ICU.
Ordered and interpreted diagnostic testing to confirm diagnosis and implement accurate treatment plans.
Performed Surgical procedures in the ICU inclusive of placement of pleural chest tubes, central line catheters, dialysis catheters, and radial and femoral arterial lines
Education
Bachelor of Science - Double Major: Medical Science And Sports Medicine
Alderson-Broaddus College
Philippi, WV
05-1997
Bachelor of Arts - Major in Biology, Minor in Environmental Studies
Bowdoin College
Brunswick, ME
05-1992
High School Diploma -
Norfolk Academy
Norfolk, VA
06-1988
Skills
Physical examination
Patient management
Patient history documentation
Educating patients
Involvement in coordination/management of operative scheduling among multiple surgeons with different surgical specialties
History of First/second assist in the OR, autonomous performance of minor surgical procedures
Affiliations
American Association of Physician Associates
Certification
Certification: Missouri State Board for the Healing Arts
Certification: National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
ACLS
BLS
Interests
Adventure travel
Backpacking and Hiking
Kayaking/Kayak Racing with most recent accomplishment of Completing the MR 340 in less than 60 hours
Documenting and sharing travel experiences
Exploring various forms of art, such as Ceramics, photography, and stained glass, to nurture creativity and personal growth
I participate in various sports activities for physical activity, camaraderie, and personal growth
Timeline
Physician Assistant
Harry S Truman Veterans' Hospital
12.2013 - Current
Physician Assistant
Columbia Orthopedic Group
12.2011 - 12.2013
Physician Assistant
University of MIssouri Hospital
09.1997 - 01.2013
Bachelor of Science - Double Major: Medical Science And Sports Medicine
Alderson-Broaddus College
Bachelor of Arts - Major in Biology, Minor in Environmental Studies