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Patient Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Clear Choice Dermatology

Physician Assistant

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$104K - $141K/yr

Physician Assistant (PA) scope of practice includes the independent diagnosis, treatment ... Ability to evaluate patient concerns * Able to write prescriptions * Ability to reach patient ...

CC DERMATOLOGY MSO LLC

Physician Assistant

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$105K - $143K/yr

Physician Assistant (PA) scope of practice includes the independent diagnosis, treatment ... Ability to evaluate patient concerns * Able to write prescriptions * Ability to reach patient ...

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All JobsPatient JobsPatient Assistant JobsPatient Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Patient Assistant information

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$12

$23

$65

How much do patient assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient assistant in Portland, OR is $23.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient assistant?

Patient Assistants are healthcare professionals who support nurses and other medical staff in caring for patients. Their duties typically include helping patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as assisting with mobility and transportation within healthcare facilities. Patient Assistants also monitor patients' conditions, report changes to medical staff, and help maintain a clean and safe environment. They play a vital role in ensuring patients' comfort and well-being during their stay in hospitals or care facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patient assistant?

To thrive as a Patient Assistant, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic medical knowledge, and experience in patient care or healthcare settings. Familiarity with hospital information systems, electronic medical records (EMRs), and basic medical equipment is often required. Compassion, strong communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for supporting patients and collaborating with medical staff. These abilities ensure patients receive attentive, safe, and effective care while maintaining smooth clinical operations.

What are some common challenges patient assistants face when supporting patients with mobility issues?

Patient Assistants frequently help individuals with limited mobility, which can present both physical and emotional challenges. Safely transferring or repositioning patients requires proper training to prevent injury to both the patient and the assistant. Additionally, Patient Assistants must navigate sensitive situations with empathy and patience, as some patients may feel frustrated or embarrassed by their limitations. Effective communication and teamwork with nurses and other healthcare professionals are essential to ensure patient comfort and safety.

What is the difference between Patient Assistant vs Medical Assistant?

AspectPatient AssistantMedical Assistant
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but some may have basic trainingCertified or registered with credentials like CMA or RMA
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities, patient care areasClinics, hospitals, physician offices, labs
Job DutiesAssisting patients with daily activities, basic patient support, escorting patientsClinical tasks like taking vital signs, preparing patients, administrative duties
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities focusing on patient comfort and supportMedical practices, hospitals, clinics with clinical responsibilities

While both roles support patient care, Patient Assistants primarily focus on patient comfort and support without extensive clinical duties, whereas Medical Assistants perform clinical tasks and administrative work, often requiring certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How do I become a patient assistant?

To become a patient assistant, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require certification in healthcare or first aid. Relevant skills include communication, empathy, and basic medical knowledge, and on-the-job training is often provided. Some roles may require background checks and adherence to healthcare regulations.

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Patient Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Patient Assistant job openings:

Patient Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,451 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Perioperative Patient Assistant (PPA)

Portland, OR

Oregon Health & Science University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

168th of 623 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Oregon Health & Science Universityexternal

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Department Overview

The Outpatient Care Unit PPA performs routine work in the Perianesthesia extended recovery environment to include: decontamination and cleaning, cleaning of the physical surroundings and equipment, stocking and room setup, transporting patients and materials, performing point of care testing and assisting with patient care tasks in the Perianesthesia departments. Function as a member of the Outpatient Care Unit team, while under the direct supervision and direction of the registered nurse.

At OHSU, the PPA promotes a culture where we imagine, inspire, engage, and excel to ensure we meet every patient's needs. The PPA is expected to float within the Perioperative Division. 

Function/Duties of Position

Decontamination and Cleaning

  • Cleans and decontaminates medical equipment - may make minor repairs or refer to repair person. 
  • Test equipment and instruments for proper operation.
  • Cleans hospital equipment such as infusion pumps, suction machines and heating and cooling units.
  • Cleans and sanitizes all surfaces in patient rooms for same day discharges.
  • Collects and empties biohazard and linen

Patient Care Support - Assists with the following patient care tasks:

  • Nutrition and Hydration
  • Dressing and Undressing
  • Elimination and Toileting
  • Clipping hair and assisting with HCG bath in preparation for surgical procedure
  • Patient mobilization - use of crutches, walkers or wheelchairs (must have SPM training)
  • Measuring and recording: Vital signs, pulse oximetry, urinary output (both voided and from drainage systems), pain level (using facility approved pain scale), patient weight
  • Care as directed by the health care team 
  • Prioritize care and responsibilities and seek consultation when indicated.

Equipment and Room Set Up and Turnover - Assists with set up of:

  • Patient Rooms 
  • Equipment Rooms

Other Duties as Assigned

Required Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent AND one year work experience in any field. 
  • Ability to communicate well with others. 
  • Ability to safely lift and transfer patients, equipment, supplies. 
  • Must be responsible and properly trained in the transportation of bio-hazardous items within 90 days of hire. 
  • A PPA candidate may be required to have a valid BLS certification at time of hire as indicated on the position description.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Completion of (or enrollment in) Certified Nurse Assistant; 
  • One year experience in a hospital setting or peri anesthesia department/short stay.
  • Experience with EPIC program
Additional Details

Requires prioritization of multiple projects, activities, and assignments. May be exposed to excessive auditory and visual stimulation. May be exposed to body fluids, tissue, and infectious processes. Subject to computer work for several hours, as needed. Able to utilize all patient care equipment with work area.

Benefits:

  • Healthcare Options - Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents, and $25K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee
  • Two separate above market pension plans to choose from
  • Vacation- up to 200 hours per year depending on length of service
  • Sick Leave- up to 96 hours per year
  • 8 paid holidays per year
  • Substantial Tri-met and C-Tran discounts
  • Additional Programs including Tuition Reimbursement and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER
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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

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