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
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 regions including La Jara often experience a growing need for Physician Assistants, especially in specialties like orthopedics. Due to fewer healthcare providers, competition is moderate, but candidates with orthopedic experience and Colorado licensure have a distinct advantage in securing positions.
In addition to a current Colorado license and BLS certification, eligibility for a controlled substance license and federal DEA registration is crucial for Physician Assistants in La Jara. Local healthcare providers value certifications that support rural, outpatient orthopedic care.
Mastery in musculoskeletal assessments, diagnostic test interpretation, and pre/post-operative patient management are essential. Strong communication skills for coordinating with specialists and primary care providers also enhance effectiveness in outpatient orthopedic settings.
Physician Assistants in rural orthopedics can advance by gaining board certifications or subspecialty credentials, leading multidisciplinary teams, or transitioning into healthcare administration roles that focus on expanding rural healthcare services.
Recruiting Group Inc emphasizes an integrative orthopedic team approach in rural settings, offering comprehensive benefits and hands-on patient care. Their focus on continuity and community health distinguishes their Physician Assistant positions from urban or larger healthcare systems.
Beyond competitive salaries, they offer on-site 24-hour health centers, tuition reimbursement, generous PTO from day one, and exclusive local discounts, creating a supportive environment that values both professional growth and personal wellbeing.
Salaries for Physician Assistants in La Jara typically range between $110,000 and $120,000 annually. Those with orthopedic expertise often command higher pay within this band, reflecting the specialized skills required for musculoskeletal care in rural outpatient clinics.
Rural healthcare in La Jara values providers who are adaptable and community-oriented. Candidates should factor in closer patient relationships, multi-disciplinary collaboration, and a slower-paced but impactful work environment compared to urban centers.
Yes, clinics prioritize Physician Assistants with orthopedic backgrounds as they can immediately contribute to specialized care. Prior experience reduces onboarding time and improves patient outcomes in managing musculoskeletal injuries and post-op care.
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