Nurse Practitioner (NP)/Physician Assistant (PA)

Location: Sherman, Texas, United States | Position Type: Full‑Time/Regular | Tracking Code: 15775

Essential Functions

• Provides primary and preventive medical care to meet the physical, mental, and emotional needs of patients within a limited scope of CPT codes and the practitioner’s skills and training.
• Delivers medical patient care in accordance with the scope and standards of practice established by nationally recognized credentialing organizations for Nurse Practitioners and/or Physician Assistants.
• Works closely with the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) and extended support staff, including daily huddles.
• Emphasizes wellness, prevention, and early detection.
• Supervises support staff in delivery of care to patients.
• Maintains universal precautions and infection‑control practices.
• Ensures smooth and timely patient flow in accordance with VA access standards and triage protocol.
• Performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and assists during respiratory and cardiac arrest procedures.
• Investigates health problems by gathering and assessing historical information.
• Performs physical examinations appropriate to the patient’s history.
• Diagnoses health problems based on history, physical exam findings, and diagnostic test results.
• Develops individualized treatment plans that include health education, pharmacologic and non‑pharmacologic interventions.
• Prescribes medications as appropriate.
• Evaluates treatment outcomes and modifies plans to achieve goals.
• Makes referrals for specialty evaluation or treatment.
• Directs and coordinates primary‑care services for walk‑in patients.
• Models clinical practice within the clinic setting.
• Sets up and operates therapeutic and emergency equipment (monitor, EKG, oxygen, AED, portable suction).
• Obtains and records patient history for new and follow‑up visits according to VA standards.
• Orders diagnostic tests based on chief complaint, physical findings, and symptoms.
• Demonstrates pharmacology knowledge and prescribes/administrates medication within privileges and regulations.
• Recommends and follows up on laboratory tests and specialized diagnostics as needed.
• Documents all pertinent patient information in VISTA to ensure quality care and continuity.
• Keeps the VISTA clinic reminder system current for each enrolled patient.
• Closes patient charts within 24–72 hours of encounter and places Return to Clinic (RTC) orders promptly.
• Assists in scheduling initial and follow‑up appointments per VA access standards and medical necessity.
• Keeps patients informed of their care plan, including lab and diagnostic results.
• Provides health‑educational materials and counseling to patients and families.
• Assists the Registered Nurse to ensure complete and accurate electronic documentation.
• Complies with all federal, state, local, Joint Commission, OSHA, VA, and subcontractor safety and operational regulations.
• Participates in the Performance Improvement Program and regular peer reviews.
• Ensures required reports and clinical information are completed accurately and timely.
• Participates in staff development programs.
• Performs other clinical duties assigned within limits of privileges.
• Maintains confidentiality of patient information and supports privacy, rights, and safety.
• Aids in management/coordination of the CBOC’s day‑to‑day activity.
• Performs other work‑related duties as assigned.

Required Skills

• Minimum 2 years clinical experience as an APRN/PA in outpatient Family Medicine or Internal Medicine (3‑5 years preferred).
• Current, unrestricted DEA license and state license; ability to obtain and maintain a Scope of Practice/Collaborative Agreement.
• Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR certification from AHA or Military Training Network.
• Prescriptive authority in accordance with state rules.
• Ability to set realistic, measurable education goals for patients.
• Skill in developing individualized and group counseling focused on disease prevention and health maintenance.
• Experience with safe opioid prescribing practices for chronic musculoskeletal pain.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic health record systems.
• Exceptional diplomatic communication skills and ability to handle difficult customer situations.
• Detail‑oriented with strong multitasking ability.

Required Experience & Education

• Master’s Degree in Nursing from a program accredited by NLNAC or CCNE, with national certification (ANA or equivalent) in Family Practice or Adult Primary Care.
• OR a bachelor’s degree from a CAHEA‑accredited PA program (minimum 12 months) plus a bachelor’s degree in a health‑related field; total of at least 5 years of academic training and health‑care experience.
• PA candidates must be certified by the NCCPA and have prescriptive authority authorization.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements

• Moderate physical activity; handling objects up to 25 lb.
• Standing or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
• Typical interior/office environment.
• Must be able to respond quickly to medical emergencies, which may require fast walking or jogging.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy.
• Opportunities for professional development and staff development programs.