Physician Assistant - Rural Emergency Department

Alberta Health Services; High River; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider is seeking a Physician Assistant to join the Emergency Department in High River. The successful candidate will provide comprehensive patient care, engage with community healthcare providers, and ensure effective documentation. Requirements include graduation from an accredited Physician Assistant program and registration with Alberta's College of Physicians and Surgeons. This full-time role offers competitive salary and flexible shift patterns in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Graduation from a recognized Physician Assistant Education Program.
• Certified Physician Assistant with CCPA or PA-C.
• Registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct clinical care to patients in the Emergency Department.
• Conduct comprehensive patient assessments and document care.
• Engage with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive patient management.

Skills

Fluent English communication

Patient care management

Documentation skills

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Graduation from a recognized Physician Assistant Education Program

Registered or eligible to register with CPSA

Job description

Your Opportunity

Alberta Health Services, Calgary Zone, is currently recruiting for a Physician Assistant to support the Emergency Department at the High River General Hospital. Under the supervision of a physician, the Physician Assistant (PA) will provide general medical care within the Emergency Department and to inpatients with a variety of medical conditions. This position will offer the PA an opportunity to work to full scope of practice. This service, in concert with our ongoing focus on excellence in patient care, makes Alberta Health Services a premier service provider to partner with. High River is a vibrant community with strong historical western roots, located close to all the amenities of the City of Calgary, as well as the many mountain activities available with close access to the Rocky Mountains. The local employment base includes farming, ranching, healthcare, education, retail, and a diversity of industries, whole also serving as a commuter community for Calgary businesses. High River is located 90 minutes of two National Parks, and 30 minutes to the wildlands of Kananaskis Country and an access point to six Alberta Provincial Parks.

Description

The primary responsibility of the Physician Assistant is to provide direct, comprehensive patient care within their skill matrix, as a central member of the healthcare team. The PA is responsible to perform comprehensive assessments, make differential diagnoses, order appropriate testing, and to assist in clinical management plans of patients. The Physician Assistant will: To provide direct clinical care to patients, involving both consultations with and referrals to other healthcare professionals as may be indicated. Recommend and explain appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment, including both the appropriate instruction and education of patients. Confer with patients or family members, and to appropriately address any follow-up care concerns. Fully document all aspects of a patient’s care and to assist with completion of all required documentations related to the care provided, including the provision and documentation of clinical instructions as may be required. Engage regularly and meaningfully with community physicians, other healthcare providers, and community organizations to facilitate ongoing comprehensive patient care management. Ensure continuing education, training and development is undertaken to meet CAPA and patient care requirements. Work collaboratively with all healthcare providers, patients and families to ensure continuity of care is maintained. Provide any required additional services under the direction and supervision of a physician, within the clinical competence of the PA. Work responsibly within AHS policies and procedures. The PA should be dedicated to patient safety, practicing within the principles of evidence‑based medicine, quality and respectful inter‑disciplinary team care, and quality improvement. The PA is expected to be a respectful and strong communicator.

Employment Details

• Classification: Physician Assistant
• Union: Exempt
• Unit and Program: Unit 100, Emergency Department
• Primary Location: High River
• Location Details: As Per Location
• Employee Class: Regular Full Time
• FTE: 1.00
• Posting End Date: 30-JAN-2026
• Date Available: 09-FEB-2026
• Hours per Shift: 7.75
• Length of Shift in weeks: 2
• Shifts per cycle: 10
• Shift Pattern: Days, Evenings, Nights, Weekends
• Days Off: Other
• Minimum Salary: $47.12
• Maximum Salary: $66.85
• Vehicle Requirement: Not Applicable

Required Qualifications

Graduation from a recognized Physician Assistant Education Program. A certified Physician Assistant with one of the following credentials: Canadian Certified Physician Assistant (CCPA), granted by the Physician. Assistants Certification Council of the Canadian Association of Physician Assistants, or Physician Assistant. Certified (PA‑C), granted by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants in the United States of America. Registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Or eligible to register with (CPSA).

Additional Required Qualifications

The PA must be able to communicate fluently (verbal and written communication) in English.

Preferred Qualifications

Teaching certifications in BCLS‑HCP and ACLS are preferred. 3‑5 years' experience as a Physician Assistant. Experience in PA education including support of the advancement of PA training including mentorship of PA trainees and new to practice PAs. Rural / Rural AD experience an asset.