The Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Christus Ochsner Health in Lake Charles, LA, is seeking an experienced Advanced Practice Provider (NP/PA) to support surgical and clinical services for patients with heart, lung, and esophageal diseases. The role involves assisting in surgeries, outpatient care, inpatient rounding, and invasive procedures, with a focus on minimally invasive and robotic thoracic surgeries. The position offers a collaborative environment with access to advanced technology and opportunities for research and community engagement.

Responsibilities

• Assist in cardiovascular and thoracic surgeries, including first and second assisting
• Perform outpatient ambulatory visits and hospital rounding
• Assess new consults in clinic and hospital admissions
• Manage inpatient care, preoperative, and postoperative evaluations
• Perform invasive procedures such as central vascular access, Swan-Ganz insertion, chest tube insertion, and endoscopic vessel harvesting (training provided)
• Participate in endo vein harvesting and assist with CABG and valve surgeries
• Provide inpatient and outpatient follow-up care
• Interact positively with multidisciplinary team members, patients, and families in a high-acuity environment

Compensation

• Salary range: $140,000 - $150,000, commensurate with experience
• W-2 employment with salary plus incentives

Benefits

• Paid Time Off (vacation and personal days)
• Paid Malpractice Insurance
• Health insurance coverage
• Matched 401(k) retirement plan
• Disability and life insurance coverage
• Opportunities for research, teaching, and community engagement

Shift & Schedule

• Variable days and shift timings
• Shared call schedule, approximately 1 in 3 calls
• Night shifts and weekend coverage as part of rotating schedule

Requirements

• Current BLS and ACLS certifications
• Active Louisiana PA license or eligibility to obtain one
• Physician Assistant Board Certification
• Minimum of 5 years of cardiac surgical experience
• Hospital and ambulatory care experience preferred
• Experience with robotic surgery is a plus but not required (training available)
• Ability to perform invasive procedures (training provided)
• Strong communication and emotional intelligence skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-acuity environment
• Collaborative team player with a caring approach