Elizabeth Heaton
Mount Pleasant
Summary
Dedicated Physician Assistant with expertise in inpatient, critical care, and observation medicine. Proficient in managing critically ill patients, performing advanced procedures, and interpreting diagnostic studies. Skilled in balancing high-acuity responsibilities while ensuring patient-centered care.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Observation Medicine Physician Assistant
USACS
08.2024 - Current
- Manage a daily caseload of observation patients with conditions including chest pain, syncope, heart failure, asthma/COPD exacerbations, cellulitis, abdominal pain, , PE/DVTs, pneumonia, and dehydration.
- Conduct rapid assessments, order and interpret diagnostics, and formulate evidence-based management plans.
- Collaborate with ED physicians, hospitalists, consultants, and care coordinators to streamline patient flow and achieve timely discharges.
- Monitor patient response to treatment and adjust care plans accordingly.
- Document thoroughly and efficiently within the EMR to support continuity of care.
- Contribute to reduced length-of-stay metrics through proactive reassessment and disposition planning.
Hospitalist/Critical Care Physician Assistant
UPMC Somerset
08.2023 - Current
- Conduct diagnostic evaluations and interpret imaging and laboratory studies for hospitalized patients.
- Lead stroke and rapid response teams during emergent clinical situations.
- Manage ventilated patients, BiPAP therapy, and ABG interpretation.
- Perform invasive bedside procedures including: Central and arterial line placement (ultrasound-guided), Chest tube placement, Dialysis catheter insertion
- Facilitate admissions, discharges, and hospital transfers in collaboration with attending physicians.
- Communicate effectively with staff, patients, and families to optimize outcomes
Education
Master of Science - Physician Assistant Studies
Seton Hill University
Greensburg, PA05.2023
Bachelor of Science - Medical Studies
Seton Hill University
Greensburg, PA05.2022
Skills
- Central/Arterial Line Placement
- Chest Tube Placement
- X-Ray Interpretation
- ABG Analysis
- Suturing
- Incision & Drainage
- Comprehensive History Taking
- Head to Toe Physical Exam
- Interpreting Laboratory Results
- EKG Interpretation
- Epic/Cerner and Microsoft Office Proficiency
- Telemedicine
Affiliations
- American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)
- Pennsylvania Society of Physician Associates (PSPA)
Certification
- Pennsylvania State License, active
- DEA Registration, active
- NCCPA Board Certification - PA-C
- Basic Life Support: Current through January 2026
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support: Current though January 2026
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support: Current through Sept. 2026
Timeline
Observation Medicine Physician Assistant
USACS
08.2024 - Current
Hospitalist/Critical Care Physician Assistant
UPMC Somerset
08.2023 - Current
Master of Science - Physician Assistant Studies
Seton Hill University
Bachelor of Science - Medical Studies
Seton Hill University