Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant-Surgical Services; Sign On Bonus*, Relocation, and Retention Bonus Eligible

About the role

The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation is a Tribal health care organization serving nearly 30,000 people in rural, southwest Alaska. Bethel, the regional hub and location of the only hospital in the region, has a population of nearly 7,000. This position is part of the Surgical Services department.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive pre-operative evaluations for low-risk patients scheduled for colonoscopy and upper endoscopy, including medical history assessment, medication review, allergies, comorbid conditions, and overall health status.
• Perform relevant physical examinations as needed, particularly for patients with existing conditions, to assess readiness for sedation and procedural risks.
• Review lab results, ECGs, and other diagnostic tests to assess potential risks and ensure all necessary pre-operative work-up is completed.
• Identify and assess any contraindications to the planned procedures or sedation based on patient health status and medical history. Ensure low-risk patients are cleared for the procedure and determine if further consultations are needed for higher-risk individuals.
• Thoroughly review patient charts to identify key medical history and assess the safety of the procedure, identifying any red flags that might require additional investigation or consultation.
• Provide clear and concise clearance for low-risk patients to proceed with colonoscopy or upper endoscopy. For patients with potential concerns, make recommendations for further work-up or consults with specialists.
• Communicate with primary care providers, specialists, and gastroenterologists regarding any concerns, clarifications, or additional evaluations required for safe procedural clearance.
• Educate patients on pre-procedure requirements, including bowel preparation for colonoscopy, fasting instructions for upper endoscopy, and other relevant guidelines.
• Discuss the procedure, explain the benefits, potential risks, and what to expect during and after the procedure. Answer any patient questions and address concerns about sedation or recovery.
• Provide emotional support to ease any anxiety or concerns related to the procedure, ensuring the patient feels confident and informed.
• Ensure all assessments, clinical findings, and medical clearances are accurately documented in the patient’s electronic health record (EHR).
• Provide written clearance or recommendations for further evaluation in a timely manner to facilitate scheduling of procedures.
• Collaborate with other healthcare providers - including endoscopists/surgeons, anesthesia staff, surgery care management team, and nursing staff - to ensure smooth patient care coordination.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education: Completed an approved Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant Training Program and received and maintained certification.
• Minimum Experience: Minimum of 5 years of clinical experience, with preference for candidates with prior experience in family medicine, internal medicine, gastroenterology or pre-operative assessments.
• License, Certification, Registration: Active certification as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Physician Assistant (PA) in Alaska. Current state licensure and certification required. Current DEA license is required. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) required. Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification is preferred but not required.
• Equipment/Tools/Word-Aids: Must have the computer skills needed to access computerized medical records.
• Specialized Knowledge and Skills: Needs the skills and knowledge to practice medicine in the area of their specialty.
• Supervisory Responsibilities: Ability to supervise and mentor NP and PA students and oversee community Health Aide clinical practice.

Benefits

• Generous PTO – starting at 4.5 weeks per year, accrued over time
• Eleven paid holidays
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retail plans
• Employee Wellness Center
• Plus More!