Physician Assistant - Cardiothoracic Surgery

Job Description

University of Toledo Physicians' mission is to improve the human condition through excellence in patient care and medical discovery. Representing more than 200 physicians, UT Physicians are leaders in clinical care, research and education of the future physicians, providing care in a wide range of medical specialties from the most complex diagnoses and treatments to primary care for the entire family.

The primary site of inpatient care services is at the University of Toledo Medical Center, but many of our physicians’ practice at hospitals and medical offices throughout the region.

The Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant (PA) is an essential member of a cardiothoracic surgery team, collaborating with surgeons to care for patients with complex cardiac and thoracic conditions. The PA provides care across the full surgical continuum, including pre-operative evaluation, intraoperative first assisting, and post-operative management in the ICU and inpatient setting.

This role involves participation in high-acuity procedures such as CABG, valve, aortic, and minimally invasive thoracic surgeries, along with daily responsibilities including rounding, procedures, documentation, and discharge planning. The position supports advanced clinical practice in a fast-paced, team-based environment.

• Perform comprehensive pre-operative evaluations, including medical histories, physical examinations, and interpretation of diagnostic tests (X-rays, laboratory studies, ECGs).
• Educate patients and families regarding procedures, risks, expected outcomes, and pre- and post-operative care.
• Prepare patients for surgery, including medication management and coordination of necessary supplies.
• First assist in cardiac and thoracic surgeries, including CABG, valve, aortic, and VATS procedures.
• Perform endoscopic vein and radial artery harvesting.
• Assist with the placement and removal of chest tubes, catheters, and arterial lines.
• Provide post-operative care in the ICU and inpatient units, including wound care and medication management.
• Collaborate with surgeons, nurses, and multidisciplinary healthcare teams to coordinate patient care.
• Maintain accurate medical records; manage admissions; schedule surgeries; and coordinate discharges and follow-up care.
• Uphold the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, compassion, and patient-centered care.

• Rotating schedule of 3–4 workdays per week.
• Participation in a shared call rotation.
• Current practice includes:
  • 2 Cardiothoracic Surgeons
  • 2 Advanced Practice Providers (APPs)
• Work in a high-acuity clinical environment requiring advanced clinical skills and close collaboration with surgeons.

• Master’s degree from an accredited Physician Assistant program.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Physician Assistant in Cardiothoracic Surgery.

• National certification as a Physician Assistant (NCCPA).
• Eligibility for licensure with the Ohio State Medical Board.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) certification.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Certificate to Prescribe and DEA registration.

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Coverage
• Retirement Benefits, Including a Pension Plan with Employer Contributions
• Paid Time Off (PTO), Holidays, Sick Leave, and Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
• University of Toledo Tuition Fee Waiver Program
• Short-term and Long-term Disability Coverage
• UTP Participation in an Alternative to FICA, Reducing Employee Payroll Taxes

• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts
• Fast-paced environment with frequent interaction with patients, staff, residents, students, and physicians
• Prolonged periods of walking and standing
• Occasional lifting of patients (may exceed 200 pounds with assistance)
• Ability to carry items weighing up to 30 pounds
• Requires corrected vision and hearing within normal ranges and strong manual dexterity
• Regular use of office and clinical equipment, including computers, phones, copiers, and fax machines
• Frequent…