Physician Assistant - Breast Surgical Oncology - Northwest Surgery Center

Physician Assistant – Breast Surgical Oncology
Location: MD Anderson’s Northwest Surgery Center (occasional TMC coverage)
Schedule: 4/10 workweek (Monday–Friday)

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is ranked the nation’s top hospital for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Hospitals.” Our mission is to eliminate cancer through exceptional programs in patient care, research, and prevention.

We are seeking a Physician Assistant (PA) to join our Breast Surgical Oncology team. This role includes surgical first assist, perioperative care, and outpatient clinical management of breast cancer patients. Responsibilities also include performing minor procedures, educating patients, and collaborating closely with the clinical team.

Ideal candidate will have PA surgery experience and be comfortable working in an outpatient, operating room setting. The position offers excellent work/life balance with a 4/10 schedule and opportunity to work in an expanding outpatient surgical center.

Key Functions

• First Assist in Surgery:

  • Provide surgical first assist in breast cancer surgeries.

  • Utilize scalpel, electrocautery, and other surgical instruments with advanced manual dexterity and sterile technique.

  • Adhere to all OR policies and surgical safety protocols.

• Clinical Care and Assessment:

  • Obtain comprehensive patient histories and perform physical examinations for perioperative breast cancer patients.

  • Formulate assessments and care plans; order and interpret diagnostic studies under the supervision of faculty surgeons.

  • Manage pre-operative and post-operative patients, including wound assessments and surgical site monitoring.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of oncologic pathophysiology, wound healing, and surgical recovery.

• Minor Procedures and Post-Op Care:

  • Perform procedures including wound debridement, suture/staple removal, drain placement/removal, seroma evacuation, and biopsies.

• Patient Education and Communication:

  • Provide anticipatory guidance, post-operative care instructions, and education in a patient-centered manner.

  • Maintain strong verbal and written communication with patients, caregivers, and the healthcare team.

• Collaboration & Teamwork:

  • Work closely with nursing staff, clinical coordinators, surgical teams, and administrative personnel to optimize patient outcomes.

• Technology and Documentation:

  • Utilize the OneConnect (Epic) electronic medical record system to document clinical findings and manage care plans.

Marginal Functions

• Perform routine clinical procedures such as starting IVs, administering medications (PO/IV/IM), and venipuncture.

• Participate in APP student education and interdisciplinary learning opportunities.

• Contribute to administrative or research projects relevant to the APP role and patient population.

• Support implementation of patient treatment plans and coordinate care with multidisciplinary teams.