Cardiothoracic Surgery Physician Assistant

As our CT Surgery Physician Assistant at Saint Joseph Medical Group in Lexington, Kentucky, you will join a high-performing surgical team at a prestigious cardiovascular program. This is an exceptional opportunity to become an integral part of a leading national Catholic health system, working alongside a dedicated team of surgeons and PAs to provide world-class cardiothoracic care in the heart of the Bluegrass region.

In this influential role, you will prioritize OR excellence while managing inpatient care for a diverse surgical caseload, including CABGs, valve replacements, and thoracic procedures. You will work within a collaborative, fast-paced environment where you will lead consults, handle admissions, and perform bedside procedures. This position offers a unique balance of surgical autonomy and inpatient management, supported by a predictable Monday-Friday schedule with a dedicated call rotation.

To be successful in this role, you will be an experienced Physician Assistant (PA-C) with a strong background in CT Surgery. We are seeking a candidate who brings proven expertise in the operating room, ICU management, and procedural proficiency, such as central lines and chest tubes. You will possess excellent communication skills, the ability to thrive in a high-acuity environment, and a commitment to clinical excellence.

Key Highlights & Compensation:

• Established surgical team: Join a high-volume practice currently supported by 4 surgeons/PAs, growing to 5.
• OR-centric role: The OR is the main priority, with dedicated support for ICU and inpatient consults.
• Diverse Case Mix: Includes CABGs, valves, thoracic procedures, and expanding endoscopy radial programs.
• Predictable Schedule: Monday–Friday schedule with a "Post-Call day off" policy.
• Manageable Call: 1:4 call rotation (moving to 1:5), with dedicated call-back pay and night-time service pay.
• Highly Competitive Compensation: Base salary is commensurate with your years of experience and clinical expertise.
• Additional Financial Incentives: Night-time service call pay ($125 weeknights / $175 weekends) plus session-based call-back pay.
• Signing Bonus & Relocation: Up to $5,000 for each.
• Robust Retirement: 401(a) plan with up to 6% automatic contribution plus an additional 3% year-end contribution.
• Comprehensive Benefits & Vacation: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, accrued vacation time, and much more.
• Location: Lexington, KY: A "Goldilocks" city offering the amenities of a major urban hub, world-class equine culture, and a lower cost of living—all with an average 20-minute commute.

Required:

• Master’s Degree from an accredited Physician Assistant program.
• Board certification as a Physician Assistant (PA-C).
• Active or eligible license in the state of Kentucky.
• Strong surgical skills with specific interest or experience in cardiovascular and thoracic procedures.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a surgical team, demonstrating adaptability to shifting daily OR schedules.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with surgeons, nursing staff, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Commitment to high-quality patient care in an inpatient and ICU hospital setting.
• DEA registration or eligibility for registration.

Preferred:

• Prior Cardiothoracic Surgery experience is highly preferred; this position is not open to new graduates at this time.
• Strong clinical proficiency in cardiovascular and thoracic procedures including CABGs, valves, and endoscopic radial
• Proven procedural skills in central lines, chest tubes, and ICU-level patient management.

Lexington, The Horse Capital of the World is a picturesque city surrounded by horse farms known for our bourbon, street art, nightlife, food, shopping, architecture, history, craft beer, schools, music and the friendly people. Located conveniently on the interstate 75 and interstate 64 corridor, Cincinnati, OH and Louisville, KY are only a short hour away for a more Urban atmosphere. Lexington has been ranked #15 in the US News and World Report's Best Places to Live. 

CHI Saint Joseph Medical Group now part of CommonSpirit Health formed between Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health includes 275 providers delivering quality care to patients across 88 locations in central and eastern Kentucky. Our full service network delivers a variety of Primary Care Services including Family Internal Geriatric and Pediatric Medicine in addition to several specialties to deliver custom care based on the unique needs of our patients.

Saint Joseph Hospital, a cornerstone of healthcare in Lexington, Kentucky, boasts a rich history spanning over a century. Its journey reflects the evolution of medicine, the changing needs of the community, and the enduring spirit of service. SJH became a pioneer in the region, introducing new technologies and treatments, including the first open-heart surgery in Kentucky in 1963.  Today, Saint Joseph Hospital remains a leading healthcare provider in Lexington, offering a wide range of services, including advanced surgical procedures, cancer care, and heart and vascular care

Catholic Health Initiatives is a part of CommonSpirit®, one of the nation's largest health systems dedicated to advancing health for all people.

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Unless directed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement, applications for this position will be considered on a rolling basis. CommonSpirit Health cannot anticipate the date by which a successful candidate may be identified.