Pediatric Physician Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

pediatric physician assistant job description

In the healthcare sector, the demand for pediatric physician assistants is at an all-time high.

As healthcare needs evolve, the need for skilled professionals who can nurture and treat our youngest patients grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pediatric physician assistant?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
  • A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
  • Or simply curious about the intricacies of pediatric healthcare,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pediatric physician assistant job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pediatric Physician Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Physician Assistants work closely with pediatricians and other healthcare professionals to provide medical care for children from infancy through adolescence.

They are involved in a wide range of health-related tasks, including diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medication, and educating patients and their families about various health conditions.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

  • Conduct physical examinations and record patient medical history
  • Diagnose, treat and manage acute and chronic diseases in children
  • Prescribe or administer treatment, medication, vaccination, and specialized medical care
  • Perform basic procedures and minor surgeries under the supervision of a physician
  • Assist physicians in conducting patient examinations and providing treatment
  • Interpret diagnostic tests such as lab results, x-rays, or EKGs
  • Collaborate with pediatricians, nurses, and other medical staff to provide comprehensive care to patients
  • Educate and counsel patients and their families on health conditions and self-care skills
  • Refer patients to medical specialists or other practitioners when necessary
  • Ensure all healthcare regulations and safety standards are met

 

Pediatric Physician Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Pediatric Physician Assistant to join our healthcare team.

The Pediatric Physician Assistant will be responsible for providing preventative care, diagnosing ailments, and treating children of all ages.

The ideal candidate should have a broad skill set, including the ability to interact positively with young patients and their parents, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to patient care.

 

Responsibilities

  • Conduct routine check-ups to assess the health condition of children.
  • Diagnose and treat illnesses, medical conditions, and injuries.
  • Recommend tests to obtain information about patient’s medical conditions and administer therapies as required.
  • Develop and implement patient management plans and record patient progress.
  • Educate and counsel children and their parents about preventive health, diet, activity, hygiene, and disease management.
  • Prescribe and administer medications.
  • Coordinate with Pediatricians and other healthcare professionals for the management of patient’s healthcare.
  • Comply with healthcare laws, regulations and standards.

 

Qualifications

  • Proven work experience as a Pediatric Physician Assistant.
  • Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program.
  • Current and unrestricted Physician Assistant licensure.
  • Excellent knowledge of child illnesses and experience in child development stages.
  • Exceptional patience and ability to remain calm under stressful conditions.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Current Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Pediatric Physician Assistant
  • Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. The role might require working in shifts and availability in emergencies.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Pediatrician or Medical Director.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $85,000 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 a Pediatric Physician Assistant Do?

Pediatric Physician Assistants, also known as PAs, typically work in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and other healthcare settings, where they provide medical services specifically to children, from newborns to young adults.

They work under the supervision of a Pediatrician or other medical doctors, and their scope of work varies depending on the legal regulations of each state.

Their duties include conducting physical examinations, diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting tests, and advising on preventive health care.

They also provide education to both the patients and their parents regarding treatment plans and proper health practices.

Pediatric PAs can perform medical procedures such as vaccinations, suturing, and wound care.

In some states, they may even prescribe medications.

They also track patients’ progress and development over time, adjusting treatment plans as necessary.

Their role is crucial in the coordination of care for their patients, working with other healthcare providers to ensure that the young patients receive the comprehensive care that they need.

Being in the pediatric field, these professionals must also be adept at communicating with children, making them feel comfortable and safe during medical procedures, and explaining complex medical issues in a way that both children and their parents can understand.

 

Pediatric Physician Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Physician Assistant should be equipped with a specific set of skills and qualifications to ensure they deliver the best care possible for children, including:

  • Strong knowledge of pediatric medicine to accurately diagnose and treat various illnesses and diseases in children.
  • Good communication skills to articulate complex medical conditions to children and their parents in a simple, understandable manner.
  • Patient care and bedside manners to handle children with gentleness, kindness, and patience.
  • Ability to work under pressure, as working with sick children and anxious parents can often be stressful.
  • Exceptional problem-solving skills to quickly determine the best course of treatment in emergency situations.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with a team of pediatricians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
  • Thorough understanding of child growth and development to provide age-appropriate care and advice.
  • A keen eye for detail to identify subtle symptoms or changes in a child’s health.

 

Pediatric Physician Assistant Experience Requirements

In order to become a Pediatric Physician Assistant, most employers require a minimum of two years’ experience in the field of pediatrics.

This experience can often be gained through internships, residency programs, or other clinical roles that provide direct experience with pediatric patients.

Candidates should have a strong foundation in the basics of pediatric medicine, gained through a combination of formal education and hands-on experience.

This includes the ability to diagnose and treat common pediatric conditions, as well as an understanding of growth and development milestones.

Those with more than five years of experience as a Pediatric Physician Assistant are often considered for more advanced roles within a healthcare setting, such as a team leader or supervisor.

This would require not only clinical expertise, but also a strong skill set in areas such as leadership, communication, and management.

In addition, Pediatric Physician Assistants should ideally have experience with patient and family education, as they are often responsible for providing information and support to families regarding their child’s health and treatment plan.

This requires a high level of empathy and interpersonal skills, which can be developed through direct patient care experience.

Those seeking to specialize in a specific area of pediatrics, such as neonatology or pediatric cardiology, may require additional years of experience or further training within that specific field.

 

Pediatric Physician Assistant Education and Training Requirements

A Pediatric Physician Assistant typically requires a master’s degree from an accredited educational program.

This should be in Physician Assistant studies, with a concentration in pediatrics or a related field.

Before entering a master’s program, candidates usually need a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field and some healthcare experience.

This can include work as a registered nurse, paramedic, or EMT.

The master’s program usually takes around two years to complete and involves both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.

Coursework may include topics such as medical ethics, anatomy, pharmacology, and disease prevention.

Upon completion of the master’s degree, Pediatric Physician Assistants must become certified through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) by passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE).

After certification, Pediatric Physician Assistants must also obtain a state license to practice.

This often involves passing a state exam, and the criteria can vary from state to state.

To maintain certification, Pediatric Physician Assistants are required to complete continuing education courses every two years and retake the PANCE every ten years.

In addition to the necessary education and certifications, Pediatric Physician Assistants should have good interpersonal skills as they will need to communicate effectively with children and their parents.

They should also have a strong interest in child health and development.

 

Pediatric Physician Assistant Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Physician Assistant earns an average salary of $106,872 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may differ based on factors such as level of experience, location, and the specific healthcare organization.

 

Pediatric Physician Assistant Job Description FAQs

What is the primary role of a Pediatric Physician Assistant?

A Pediatric Physician Assistant serves as a healthcare provider who works under the supervision of a Pediatrician or Physician.

They take medical histories, perform examinations, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and provide education and counseling to patients and their families.

 

What skills should a Pediatric Physician Assistant possess?

In addition to strong clinical skills, a Pediatric Physician Assistant should have excellent communication skills, as they must explain complex medical terms to patients and their families.

They should also have strong interpersonal skills, as they need to empathize with children and reassure anxious parents.

Attention to detail and problem-solving abilities are also crucial to accurately diagnose and treat medical conditions.

 

What qualifications are needed to become a Pediatric Physician Assistant?

Pediatric Physician Assistants typically require a master’s degree from an accredited educational program.

They must also be licensed in the state in which they practice, which requires passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

 

What is the typical work environment for a Pediatric Physician Assistant?

Pediatric Physician Assistants usually work in physicians’ offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and healthcare centers.

They may work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on the setting and needs of the patients.

They spend much of their time on their feet, making rounds and visiting with patients.

 

What are the challenges a Pediatric Physician Assistant might face?

Pediatric Physician Assistants often deal with emotionally challenging situations, such as treating seriously ill or injured children.

The role also involves high levels of responsibility and can be stressful at times.

However, the chance to make a significant difference in the lives of children and their families can make this career highly rewarding.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the dynamic and rewarding world of a pediatric physician assistant.

And guess what?

It’s not just about diagnosing and treating illnesses.

It’s about nurturing the health of children, one patient at a time.

With our go-to pediatric physician assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to pave your way.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting comprehensive job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every child you care for is part of a greater mission.

Let’s shape healthier futures. Together.

How to Become a Pediatric Physician Assistant (Complete Guide)

Eccentric Earnings: The Weirdest Ways to Make Money

Proof Against AI: Professions Where Humans are Indispensable

Think Twice Before Applying: Jobs With Shockingly Low Salaries Revealed!

Work in Wonderland: Amazing Jobs That Pay Well and Satisfy Your Soul

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *