Psychiatric Physician Extender

Class Concept

This is professional work providing psychiatric/mental health care involving patient assessments, ordering labs, making referrals to other medical providers, prescribing psychiatric mediations, and overseeing patients' physical and mental health. Practitioners have knowledge of psychopharmacology, the study of indications, actions, risks, and side effects of psychiatric drugs used independently and in combination with other drugs. Practitioners may be trained in psychiatric/mental health. Work is performed in state facilities, public health programs, correctional units and other clinic settings. Work is performed in collaboration with a psychiatrist.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the theory, principles, and practices of psychiatric medicine and the techniques involved.
• Knowledge of biological, social, and psychological developmental processes at all ages.
• Knowledge of developments in the field of medicine with emphasis on psychiatric medicine.
• Knowledge of crisis intervention and risk management.
• Skill in treating and diagnosing a variety of psychiatric disorders.
• Ability to assess and interpret laboratory results, clinical data and information relative to the patient's condition.
• Ability to compile clear and concise notes for patient's charts and to make oral presentations of cases in medical conferences.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associate personnel, patients, and their families, and the general public.

Minimum Education and Experience

Licensed as a Physician Assistant by the North Carolina Medical Board and holding a Psychiatry Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) and one year of experience or approved to practice as a Nurse Practitioner by the North Carolina Board of Nursing and the North Carolina Medical Board holding the Psychiatric – Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification and one year of experience.