LAURA K. PANKOWSKI
Atlanta
Summary
Orthopedic Physician Assistant with 8+ years of experience in adult reconstruction, total joint arthroplasty, and perioperative orthopedic care within a high-volume academic health system. Skilled in independent clinic management, diagnosis and treatment of hip and knee pathology, interpretation of diagnostic imaging, office-based procedures, and surgical first assist. Recognized with Platinum Provider Award (FY23–FY25) for exceptional patient satisfaction and quality of care.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Orthopedic Physician Assistant
Emory Orthopedic and Spine Hospital
Tucker, GA
05.2018 - Current
- Eight years of experience in Adult Reconstruction and Total Joint Arthroplasty with expertise in hip and knee pathology, arthritis management, and non-operative treatment strategies.
- Conduct independent clinics and comprehensive orthopedic evaluations to develop effective treatment plans.
- Proficient in diagnostic imaging interpretation and outpatient procedures including intra-articular injections, aspirations, trigger point injections, and bursa injections.
- Extensive operative experience assisting orthopedic surgeons with patient positioning, retracting, arthrotomy/fascial closure, and skin closure, contributing to efficient surgical workflow and patient care.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Canterbury on-the-Lake
Waterford, MI
07.2013 - 07.2014
- Assisted residents with daily living activities including bathing, grooming, feeding, toileting, transfers, and companionship.
- Collected vital signs, weights, and specimen samples to support patient care.
- Provided compassionate care while maintaining resident comfort, dignity, and privacy.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Lakeside Beikirch Care Center
Brockport, NY
12.2012 - 03.2013
- Assisted residents with activities of daily living including bathing, grooming, feeding, transportation, companionship, and vital sign monitoring.
- Supported resident care needs while promoting patient comfort and quality of care.
Education
Physician Assistant Surgical Residency -
Emory University
Atlanta, GA2018
Master of Science - Physician Assistant Program
Harding University
Searcy, AR12-2016
Bachelor of Science - Biological Science, Chemistry
The College At Brockport, State University of New York
Brockport, NY05-2013
Skills
- Direct patient care
- Patient assessments
- Clinical decision making
- Treatment Planning
- Interpreting laboratory results
- Diagnostic imaging interpretation
- Preoperative planning
- Postoperative care
- Patient education
- Surgical assistance
- Procedures/Joint injections
Certification
- BLS/CPR
- ACLS Certified
- Smiles for Life a National Oral Health Curriculum
- NIH Certified Stroke Certification
- Certified Nursing Assistant-State of New York, Certified Nursing Assistant-State of Michigan
Timeline
Certified Orthopedic Physician Assistant
Emory Orthopedic and Spine Hospital
05.2018 - Current
Certified Nursing Assistant
Canterbury on-the-Lake
07.2013 - 07.2014
Certified Nursing Assistant
Lakeside Beikirch Care Center
12.2012 - 03.2013
Physician Assistant Surgical Residency -
Emory University
Master of Science - Physician Assistant Program
Harding University
Bachelor of Science - Biological Science, Chemistry
The College At Brockport, State University of New York
Teaching & Leadership
Clinical Preceptor for APP Student Learners: Emory Orthopedic and Spine Hospital, Tucker, GA
· Provide clinical instruction and mentorship in orthopedics and arthroplasty across clinic, OR and perioperative care settings.
· Participates in onboarding, education, and clinical training of APP student and trainees
Lead Advance Practice Provider – Meds-to-Beds Initiative started (2023)
· Led the development and implementation of postoperative Meds-to-Beds program aimed at improving discharge efficiency and patient access to medications.
· Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams including pharmacy, nursing and surgical services to estabilish streamline bedside medication delivery workflows prior to discharge.
· Helped reduce barriers to obtaining postoperative prescriptions, improving mediatin compliance, patient satisfaction and continuity or care
Awards
Platinum Provider Award (FY23-FY25)
· Recognized in the top 10% of providers; rated in the 90th–98th percentile for “Likelihood to Recommend” by patients.
Service Hero Award (FY23)
· Awarded for outstanding service to Emory Healthcare.