Occupational Health Physician Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s dynamic healthcare industry, the role of Occupational Health Physician Assistants is more critical than ever.

As workplace health and safety standards evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage and enhance these protocols is escalating.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Occupational Health Physician Assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes action of occupational health,

You’ve landed at the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Occupational Health Physician Assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Occupational Health Physician Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Occupational Health Physician Assistants support the healthcare needs of employees in the workplace.

They work closely with Occupational Health Physicians to diagnose and treat work-related injuries and illnesses, while also promoting workplace safety and health.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Provide medical care for work-related injuries and illnesses under the supervision of an Occupational Health Physician
• Perform physical examinations and screenings, including pre-employment and annual health assessments
• Interpret and evaluate diagnostic tests, such as x-rays or lab results
• Assist in the development and implementation of health and safety programs
• Provide health education and counseling to employees on topics such as stress management, ergonomics, and healthy lifestyles
• Maintain accurate and detailed medical records
• Recommend appropriate medical treatments and rehabilitation for employees
• Consult with employers and employees to address health and safety concerns in the workplace
• Coordinate with other healthcare professionals for optimal patient care

 

Occupational Health Physician Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Occupational Health Physician Assistant to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing health care services to employees within the context of the workplace.

This includes conducting physical examinations, diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries, and promoting overall employee health.

The candidate will work closely with a supervising occupational health physician and other healthcare professionals to ensure the highest standard of care.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform physical examinations and preventive health measures within prescribed guidelines.
• Order, interpret, and evaluate diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient’s clinical problems and health care needs.
• Formulate and implement treatment plans for illnesses commonly occurring in the general population.
• Prescribe medication, therapy, and other specialized medical care to treat or prevent illness, disease, or injury.
• Educate and counsel patients on health behaviors, self-care skills, and treatment options.
• Record physical findings, and formulate plan and prognosis, based on patient’s condition.
• Collaborate with occupational health physicians to provide comprehensive health care services.
• Comply with all laws applicable to physician assistants, including HIPAA.

 

Qualifications

• Current state Physician Assistant license or ability to obtain.
• Completion of an accredited Physician Assistant program.
• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Physician Assistant, preferably in occupational health.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of workplace health and safety regulations.
• Current DEA and NPI certification.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Occupational Health Physician Assistant
• Work Environment: Medical clinic setting. May require travel to different locations depending on workplace needs.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Occupational Health Physician.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Occupational Health Physician Assistant Do?

Occupational Health Physician Assistants work under the supervision of Occupational Health Physicians in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and workplaces.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure the health and safety of employees in the workplace.

This can involve conducting routine health examinations, evaluating employees’ physical and mental fitness, and identifying any health risks that could potentially affect their work performance.

Occupational Health Physician Assistants also aid in developing and implementing health programs and safety protocols to promote overall wellbeing of employees.

They may conduct health education seminars, provide vaccinations, and assist in managing any work-related injuries or illnesses.

Additionally, they often collaborate with employers to make recommendations on workplace modifications or accommodations for employees with disabilities or health conditions.

Moreover, they keep a meticulous record of employees’ health information, monitor workplace conditions, and ensure compliance with occupational health and safety standards.

It is also within their purview to liaise with other healthcare professionals for referrals or collaborative care and to provide necessary counseling and support to employees experiencing health issues.

 

Occupational Health Physician Assistant Qualifications and Skills

An Occupational Health Physician Assistant should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Extensive knowledge of medicine, specifically with a focus on workplace safety and health issues, to efficiently diagnose, treat, and monitor occupational diseases and injuries
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals and to explain complex health issues clearly and empathetically
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail for maintaining comprehensive medical records, administering treatment plans, and ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety regulations
• Proficiency in using medical software systems for documenting patient information, managing patient care, and conducting research on occupational health issues
• Problem-solving skills to quickly analyze situations, make informed decisions, and implement solutions during medical emergencies
• Ability to perform physical examinations, conduct workplace risk assessments, and advise on preventive measures to create a healthy and safe work environment
• Experience in interpreting diagnostic tests and providing appropriate interventions, as well as advising organizations on workplace adaptations for employees with health concerns
• Understanding of legal and ethical issues related to patient confidentiality, informed consent, and occupational health service provision

 

Occupational Health Physician Assistant Experience Requirements

Occupational Health Physician Assistants usually need to have a master’s degree from an accredited physician assistant program, and typically require a license to practice in the state where they work.

This educational background often includes hands-on clinical rotations in different areas of medicine, which provides them with a significant amount of practical experience.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in a healthcare setting.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Medical Assistant, Registered Nurse, or other healthcare-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually develop their clinical skills and knowledge in entry-level Physician Assistant roles.

They may have specific expertise in occupational health, or experience in closely related fields such as environmental health, public health, or workplace safety.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership or managerial experience, such as managing a health clinic or leading a team of healthcare professionals.

They may be ready for a role as a Clinical Supervisor, Healthcare Administrator, or similar leadership position in the field of occupational health.

 

Occupational Health Physician Assistant Education and Training Requirements

To become an Occupational Health Physician Assistant, candidates typically need a Master’s degree from an accredited educational program.

These programs usually lead to a master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies, Health Science or Medical Science and typically take at least two years to complete.

Before they can enter the master’s program, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree and must have completed courses in basic and behavioral sciences such as biology, chemistry, psychology, and anatomy.

Work experience in the healthcare field, such as an EMT or paramedic, registered nurse, or lab assistant, can also be advantageous.

All states require Physician Assistants to be licensed.

To become licensed, candidates must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

They must also complete a total of 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years.

While not required, some Occupational Health Physician Assistants may choose to pursue additional certification in occupational health.

This can demonstrate a commitment to the field and may make candidates more attractive to employers.

It’s important to note that this role requires excellent analytical skills, strong interpersonal communication, and a high degree of attention to detail.

Ongoing training and professional development in the field of occupational health will also be necessary throughout your career to stay up-to-date with current practices and regulations.

 

Occupational Health Physician Assistant Salary Expectations

An Occupational Health Physician Assistant earns an average salary of $108,761 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can fluctuate based on factors like experience, level of education, location, and the company or healthcare system they are working for.

 

Occupational Health Physician Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Occupational Health Physician Assistant need?

An Occupational Health Physician Assistant should have good communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients and other healthcare staff.

They should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and treat work-related illnesses and injuries.

They must be organized and detail-oriented to keep accurate records of patient’s health progress.

 

Do Occupational Health Physician Assistants need a specific degree?

Yes, to become an Occupational Health Physician Assistant, one must earn a master’s degree from an accredited Physician Assistant program.

After completing the degree, they must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) to obtain a license.

Additionally, some may choose to gain further specialization in occupational health.

 

What should you look for in an Occupational Health Physician Assistant resume?

First and foremost, ensure that they have the necessary licenses and certifications.

Check their educational background to ensure they have graduated from an accredited Physician Assistant program.

Look for experience in occupational health or a related field.

Also, look for skills such as patient care, medical teamwork, and knowledge of occupational health laws and regulations.

 

What qualities make a good Occupational Health Physician Assistant?

A good Occupational Health Physician Assistant should have empathy and a desire to help others.

They should be able to work well under pressure and make quick decisions in emergency situations.

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are important for managing patient records and following treatment plans.

They should also be committed to continuous learning due to the ever-evolving nature of healthcare.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Occupational Health Physician Assistant?

Hiring an Occupational Health Physician Assistant can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and experience required for the role.

However, offering competitive salaries and benefits, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive work environment can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the intricate role of an occupational health physician assistant.

Surprised?

It’s not just about conducting health examinations.

It’s about safeguarding the health and wellbeing of workers, one assessment at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive occupational health physician assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Go even further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every health assessment is part of a larger health management plan.

Let’s create a healthier workforce. Together.

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