Open to opportunities

Melissa Torres

@melissatorres

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Dedicated Certified Physician Assistant specializing in pediatric rehabilitation.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that fosters collaboration, values patient-centered care, and offers opportunities for professional growth.

I am a Certified Physician Assistant with extensive experience in pediatric rehabilitation and physical medicine. Currently, I work at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where I am part of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Consultation Team. My role involves assessing and coordinating comprehensive rehabilitation needs for patients, performing outpatient procedures, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optimal patient care.

Previously, I served at Shriner’s Hospital for Children, where I managed outpatient clinics and addressed the needs of pre/post-operative patients. My background in clinical research has equipped me with strong analytical skills, allowing me to contribute effectively to patient care and rehabilitation strategies. I am committed to improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practices and compassionate care.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Certified Physician Assistant

Current

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Dec 2021 - Present (3 years 9 months)

Provided comprehensive rehabilitation needs, assessment, and coordination of procedures such as botulinum toxin injections and intrathecal baclofen pump interrogation/refills. Managed tone/spasticity, paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity, and sialorrhea.

Rehabilitation Intrathecal Baclofen Pump Management Tone Management Spasticity Management Patient Care Coordination Electronic Health Records Medical Documentation

Certified Physician Assistant

Shriner's Hospital for Children

Jan 2017 - Nov 2021 (4 years 10 months)

Assessed new and existing patients in various clinics, including Fracture Clinic and specialized pediatric orthopedic clinics, by conducting appropriate history, physical examinations, and radiographic image reviews. Managed pre/post-operative patient care, including communication with families and outside medical facilities, and documented patient progress and medication changes.

Fracture Management Medical Documentation

Research Specialist III

Shriner's Hospital for Children

Sep 2010 - Jun 2014 (3 years 9 months)

Coordinated several physical therapy-based research studies, managing IRB submissions, data acquisition, and analysis. Oversaw laboratory staffing, scheduling, training, and ensured adherence to departmental and facility policies and protocols.

Clinical Research IRB Submission Data Analysis Laboratory management Equipment Management Research Participant Coordination Training

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

State University of New York: Downstate Medical Center

Bachelor of Science, Physician Assistant Studies

Completed a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. This program prepared me for a career as a physician assistant, focusing on medical knowledge and clinical skills.

Drexel University College of Medicine

Certificate in Medical Science Preparatory Program, Interdisciplinary Health Sciences

Undertook Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Courses, earning a Certificate in Medical Science Preparatory Program. This coursework provided a strong foundation in health sciences.

State University of New York: Stony Brook University

Bachelor of Science, Biology with a concentration in Developmental Genetics

Obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Developmental Genetics. This program provided a comprehensive understanding of biological principles and genetic development.