PURPOSE OF THE POSITION 

Incorporated in 2017, the Matawa Health Co-operative (MHC) is a Matawa First Nations owned and controlled health co-operative providing healthcare services that enhance existing health services to achieve long-term health and wellbeing for all members within the nine Matawa First Nations. This provincially incorporated Co-operative consists of the nine Matawa member communities including Aroland, Constance Lake, Eabametoong, Ginoogaming, Long Lake #58, Marten Falls, Neskantaga, Nibinamik and Webequie First Nation. The MHC is overseen by a Board of Directors and is a member of the Health Care Co-operatives Federation of Canada. The MHC is community-driven with services tailored to individual community needs. It is the first of its kind in Canada. 

The MHC incorporates traditional healing and medicines to address the health needs of the Matawa First Nations in a wholistic way by prioritizing mental health and addictions, diabetes, and chronic diseases. It oversees an Inter-Professional Primary Care Health Team providing direct services in the Matawa First Nations or through telemedicine. 

The Physician Assistant (PA) provides essential support in delivering high-quality, patient- centered medical care under the supervision of a licensed Physician. The PA plays a critical role in direct patient care, clinical decision-making, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to ensure the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. They are responsible for performing comprehensive patient assessments, developing and implementing treatment plans, conducting procedures and diagnostic testing, educating patients and families, and promoting overall health and wellness. The PA contributes to the clinic’s mission of providing compassionate, culturally competent, and community- focused care while supporting the continuity of primary care services.

Overview and Organizational Context
The Matawa Health Co-operative (MHC), established in 2017 and owned by Matawa First Nations, provides community-driven healthcare emphasizing traditional healing, mental health, chronic disease management, and telemedicine. It operates under a Board of Directors and collaborates with the Federation of Canadian Health Care Co-operatives, focusing on holistic, culturally competent care tailored to community needs.

Role and Responsibilities
The PA supports high-quality, patient-centered care under physician supervision, performing assessments, developing treatment plans, conducting procedures, and ordering diagnostics. They educate patients on health promotion, document clinical encounters, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, nurses, and community agencies. The PA also participates in quality assurance, professional development, and community health initiatives, fostering long-term relationships and holistic care.

Qualifications and Skills
Candidates require a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited PA program, Canadian certification, BLS and ACLS certifications, and preferably two years of clinical experience. Knowledge of Matawa communities, cultural competence, strong decision-making, communication skills, and ability to travel are essential. Valid Ontario driver’s license and clear criminal and health checks are mandatory.

Working Conditions
The position involves travel to remote First Nations, physical demands like lifting equipment, and working in busy, noisy environments. It requires managing multiple projects, handling stress, and maintaining attention to detail during long hours of screen time and verbal communication.

Organizational Expectations
Employees are expected to embody MHC’s mission and values, act within legal and policy frameworks, develop respectful community relationships, ensure confidentiality, and contribute to service improvements. Flexibility in hours and commitment to ongoing professional growth are vital.

This summary captures the core duties, qualifications, and organizational principles guiding the Physician Assistant role within the Matawa Health Co-operative.

Benefits of working for the Matawa Health Co-operative:

• Optional flexible schedule to support work-life balance.

• HOOPP pension plan available to all employees.

• Canada Life benefit plan that includes dental, healthcare and vision care.

• Employee & family assistance program (EFAP) available to all employees.

• Competitive salaries and paid vacation time.

• Making a difference for Matawa communities.