Make a Lasting Impact in Rural Orthopedics
San Luis ValleyHealth is seeking an experienced Advanced Practice Provider (Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant) to join our clinic-based Orthopedics team in La Jara, Colorado. This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside orthopedic specialists and provide high-quality, hands-on musculoskeletal care to patients in a rural setting.
What You’ll Do:
Evaluate and manage patients with orthopedic injuries and conditions in an outpatient setting
- Collaborate closely with orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists to develop comprehensive treatment plans
Conduct pre- and post-operative visits and patient education
Order and interpret diagnostic imaging and lab tests related to orthopedic care
Support continuity of care by coordinating with primary care providers and other specialists as needed
Minimum Qualifications:
Current Colorado license as a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant (or eligible)
Board Certified
- At least one year of PA experience.
Orthopedic experience preferred
Eligible for Colorado Controlled Substance License and Federal DEA Registration
BLS Certification
Comprehensive Benefits Package:
- Salary range of 110,000 to 120,000
Full medical, dental, and vision coverage with low-cost copays and deductibles
Generous Paid Time Off and Sick Leave – with accruals starting day one
403(b) retirement plan with up to 5% employer match after one year
Free life and disability insurance (plus affordable supplemental coverage options)
On-site 24-hour Employee Health Center
Tuition reimbursement and continuing education benefits
Employee Assistance Program with free counseling sessions
Exclusive discounts on cell phone plans, ski passes, fitness memberships, and more
Freqently Asked Questions
Rural areas like La Jara often have fewer Physician Assistants, which can reduce competition compared to urban centers. However, specialized fields such as orthopedics might attract niche applicants. Understanding local demand helps tailor applications for enhanced chances in these underserved communities.
Physician Assistants in La Jara typically experience broader clinical responsibilities, often managing musculoskeletal care independently due to fewer specialists nearby. The rural setting fosters closer patient relationships and requires adaptability, contrasting with more segmented roles common in city hospitals.
Beyond standard certification, Physician Assistants should have hands-on orthopedic experience and proficiency in diagnostic imaging interpretation. Familiarity with pre/post-operative care and collaboration with surgeons enhances effectiveness in specialized musculoskeletal clinics.
Starting in orthopedics, Physician Assistants often deepen clinical skills managing injuries and surgical support, potentially advancing to lead provider roles or specializing further. Continuous education and certifications boost progression within this evolving healthcare niche.
Lordan Associates offers tuition reimbursement and continuing education benefits, encouraging Physician Assistants to expand their expertise. Their on-site health center and employee assistance programs also foster a supportive environment for career growth and well-being.
Yes, Lordan Associates provides exclusive perks like 24-hour on-site health services, generous paid time off from day one, and discounts on lifestyle amenities such as ski passes. These benefits are tailored to enhance work-life balance in the La Jara region.
Physician Assistants in this role typically earn between $110,000 and $120,000 annually. This range reflects both the specialized orthopedic focus and rural location, combined with comprehensive benefits that enrich total compensation.
Holding or being eligible for a Colorado PA license is essential and can influence onboarding speed. Processing times vary, so securing state licensure early streamlines employment, especially important in rural clinics needing prompt staffing.
In La Jara's clinic, Physician Assistants often manage a wider range of orthopedic cases independently and coordinate care across fewer specialists. This setting demands flexibility, direct patient engagement, and strong interdisciplinary collaboration.
Key skills include orthopedic clinical expertise, diagnostic test interpretation, collaborative treatment planning with surgeons, and patient education. Experience in rural healthcare settings is valued to navigate unique local challenges effectively.
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