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Surgeons, All Other

SOC 29-1249.00Job Zone —v.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers chiropractic and related surgical/manual-medicine practice contexts including patient intake, neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis, spinal adjustment, clinical documentation, and interdisciplinary care coordination in outpatient and group practice settings.

Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Patient medical historiescollect and record under direct supervision using standardized intake forms in a clinical setting.
  2. Neuromusculoskeletal assessment terminologyrecognize and apply when documenting findings under clinician guidance.
  3. Chiropractic diagnostic protocolsfollow established steps to observe and evaluate basic spinal alignment under supervision.
  4. Patient health and medical history questionnairesadminister and organize using office suite software in an entry-level clinical role.
  5. Active listening techniquesapply during supervised patient interviews to capture reported symptoms accurately.
  6. Electronic health record (EHR) softwareenter patient data and update basic medical records under direct oversight.
  7. Spinal anatomy and basic biologyidentify key structures and relate them to common musculoskeletal complaints during orientation training.
  8. Clinical reading comprehensioninterpret procedure guidelines and treatment protocols under clinician direction in a supervised practice setting.
  9. Patient communication basicsrelay simple health information clearly and respectfully under practitioner supervision.
  10. Manual adjustment safety principlesdemonstrate awareness of contraindications and patient positioning during observed clinical demonstrations.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Patient health historiesreview, question, and synthesize with reduced oversight to identify relevant patterns in a routine outpatient clinic.
  2. Neuromusculoskeletal system functioningevaluate using chiropractic diagnostic systems with growing independence across common case presentations.
  3. Spinal and articular adjustmentsperform a structured series of manual techniques on routine cases following established clinical protocols.
  4. Diagnostic reasoningapply critical thinking to differentiate common musculoskeletal conditions based on history, observation, and physical examination findings.
  5. Patient progress monitoringtrack treatment responses over successive visits using medical software and document outcomes systematically.
  6. Written clinical documentationcompose accurate SOAP notes and patient correspondence using word processing software in a chiropractic office.
  7. Social perceptivenessrecognize patient emotional state and comfort level during examination and adjust communication style accordingly.
  8. Referral and coordination protocolsidentify cases requiring additional evaluation and initiate referrals following practice guidelines.
  9. Anatomy and physiology knowledgeapply understanding of biological systems to explain diagnoses and treatment plans to patients in plain language.
  10. Office technology suitemanage appointment records, generate reports, and maintain scheduling using integrated practice management software.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex neuromusculoskeletal evaluationsconduct autonomously using advanced chiropractic diagnostic systems across a full range of routine and non-routine presentations.
  2. Comprehensive patient historiesobtain, critically analyze, and synthesize across multiple visits to inform individualized treatment plans without supervisory input.
  3. Manual spinal and articular adjustment sequencesexecute with precision and clinical judgment across diverse patient populations including those with comorbidities.
  4. Differential diagnosisapply deductive and inductive reasoning to distinguish musculoskeletal, neurological, and referred-pain conditions in a busy outpatient practice.
  5. Treatment outcome evaluationmonitor and interpret patient progress data using medical software to adjust care plans proactively.
  6. Patient education and counselingdeliver clear, evidence-informed guidance on posture, ergonomics, and rehabilitation exercises tailored to individual patient needs.
  7. Clinical writingauthor detailed case reports, referral letters, and insurance documentation meeting professional and regulatory standards.
  8. Integrity and judgment in care decisionsexercise independent ethical decision-making when navigating sensitive diagnoses or treatment disagreements.
  9. Interdisciplinary collaborationcoordinate care with physicians, physical therapists, and specialists using electronic communication tools and shared records.
  10. Psychology and behavior awarenessrecognize psychosocial factors influencing patient recovery and incorporate counseling-informed communication into clinical practice.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Clinical practice standardsestablish and refine diagnostic and treatment protocols for neuromusculoskeletal care across an entire chiropractic organization or group practice.
  2. Practitioner developmentmentor and evaluate emerging and developing clinicians in spinal assessment, adjustment technique, and patient history-taking skills.
  3. Organizational quality assurancedesign and lead systematic monitoring programs using medical and administrative software to measure and improve patient outcomes practice-wide.
  4. Strategic patient care modelsdirect the development of evidence-based treatment frameworks that integrate chiropractic, counseling, and interdisciplinary approaches.
  5. Professional judgment standardsset the ethical and clinical decision-making expectations for the practice, modeling cautiousness and integrity in complex or high-risk cases.
  6. Clinical education leadershipdevelop training curricula and continuing education programs that build staff competency across all O*NET knowledge domains relevant to the practice.
  7. Health information systems governanceoversee implementation and optimization of EHR and practice management platforms to ensure documentation accuracy and regulatory compliance.
  8. Community and professional advocacyrepresent the practice in professional associations, contributing to policy discussions on scope of practice and chiropractic standards.
  9. Complex case consultationlead multidisciplinary case conferences for patients with refractory or atypical neuromusculoskeletal conditions, synthesizing input across specialties.
  10. Practice innovation and growthidentify emerging chiropractic diagnostic technologies and therapeutic modalities, guiding adoption decisions aligned with patient safety and organizational goals.

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted literature review — uses an LLM to surface recent clinical guidelines and surgical case studies relevant to a patient's condition, then verifies findings against peer-reviewed sources before any diagnostic or treatment decision Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Patient history synthesis — directs an AI tool to organize and summarize lengthy medical records and intake notes, freeing time for direct patient interaction and physical examination Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Differential diagnosis support — queries an AI assistant with structured symptom and history data to generate a ranked list of differential diagnoses, which the surgeon then evaluates against hands-on clinical findings Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Pre-operative planning augmentation — feeds imaging reports and patient history into an AI workflow to draft procedural checklists and flag contraindications, retaining full clinical authority over the final operative plan Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Documentation efficiency — delegates transcription of post-operative notes and follow-up instructions to an AI dictation tool, then reviews and signs off on accuracy before committing to the patient record Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Evidence-based protocol retrieval — uses an AI assistant to rapidly cross-reference institutional protocols and published outcomes data during complex case reviews, accelerating decision-making without displacing clinical judgment Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Complex case orchestration — directs a multi-step AI workflow that integrates diagnostic imaging analysis, surgical literature synthesis, and risk-stratification modeling, then critically appraises each output before incorporating it into the care plan Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI output quality governance — establishes team-level standards for when AI-generated clinical summaries and decision-support outputs require mandatory surgeon review, embedding human oversight into departmental practice WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Outcome data feedback loops — systematically feeds de-identified surgical outcome data back into AI-assisted audit tools to identify performance trends and inform continuous quality improvement, maintaining interpretive ownership of all findings Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 26
Augment share: 2.6%
Time saved: 94.4%
AI autonomy: 2.46
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication12 statements
Emerging
  1. Medical history intake — elicits patient symptoms and prior treatments through structured questioning while maintaining attentive rapport O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Informed consent communication — conveys procedural risks, alternatives, and expected outcomes clearly to patients and families before surgery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interdisciplinary reporting — presents patient case summaries to referring physicians and care team members with appropriate clinical detail O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Post-operative instruction delivery — explains wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up expectations to patients using plain language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Diagnostic finding communication — articulates complex neuromusculoskeletal or systemic findings to patients and multidisciplinary teams with precision and empathy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Operative documentation — authors comprehensive surgical reports, discharge summaries, and consultation letters that meet institutional and legal standards O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Difficult conversation facilitation — communicates unexpected intraoperative findings or poor prognoses to families using structured, compassionate frameworks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Surgical grand rounds leadership — presents complex case analyses and outcome data to hospital staff, modeling clear evidence-based communication standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient advocacy correspondence — authors referral letters, peer-review responses, and policy recommendations that influence institutional care protocols O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship through communication modeling — coaches residents and fellows on patient interview techniques, operative briefings, and cross-specialty communication norms Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Operating room role awareness — understands the surgeon's leadership responsibilities within the surgical team hierarchy and follows established protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Surgical team direction — guides scrub technicians, surgical nurses, and anesthesiologists through case-specific roles and intraoperative adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Resident supervision — provides structured oversight to surgical trainees during lower-complexity procedures, offering real-time corrective feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Operative leadership — leads the surgical team through complex or high-risk procedures, maintaining clear command, composure, and decision authority Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality improvement initiative — champions post-operative complication review processes and implements protocol changes to reduce surgical errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-specialty coordination — leads multidisciplinary case conferences to align surgical, medical, and rehabilitative care plans for complex patients O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Surgical program development — builds and refines specialty surgical programs, establishing standards of practice, credentialing criteria, and outcome benchmarks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Institutional leadership — serves on hospital committees, accreditation bodies, or professional boards, shaping surgical policy and patient safety culture Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Fellowship mentorship — designs and leads structured surgical training experiences that develop the next generation of specialty surgeons Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition9 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap recognition — identifies personal limitations in surgical techniques or diagnostic reasoning and seeks targeted learning opportunities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Case reflection initiation — reviews own operative decisions after procedures to identify where clinical reasoning aligned or diverged from best practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Operative performance self-monitoring — evaluates own intraoperative technique in real time, adjusting approach when initial strategy is not yielding expected tissue response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuing education planning — constructs a personalized learning plan targeting known gaps in surgical subspecialty knowledge and procedural skills Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Diagnostic reasoning audit — systematically reviews own differential diagnosis processes after complex cases to identify cognitive biases or diagnostic anchoring patterns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Complication-driven reflection — conducts structured personal debriefs following adverse surgical events to extract transferable lessons without deflection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Learning strategy calibration — adjusts how surgical skills are practiced based on self-assessment of procedural confidence and outcomes data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive mentorship — teaches residents to monitor their own clinical reasoning processes and recognize decision-making errors in surgical contexts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic bias awareness — identifies and articulates institutional or personal cognitive biases affecting surgical decision-making at the team level Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Differential diagnosis construction — generates a list of plausible diagnoses based on patient history, physical examination, and initial diagnostic findings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence interpretation — reads and interprets imaging, laboratory, or diagnostic results using foundational medical and biological knowledge O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Surgical indication evaluation — analyzes whether operative intervention is warranted versus conservative management based on clinical evidence and patient-specific factors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intraoperative problem-solving — evaluates unexpected anatomical findings or complications mid-procedure and determines optimal course correction in real time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Diagnostic reasoning under uncertainty — synthesizes ambiguous clinical data from neuromusculoskeletal assessments and systemic evaluations to reach defensible diagnostic conclusions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Treatment protocol critique — evaluates published surgical guidelines against patient-specific variables to determine when deviation from standard protocol is clinically justified Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Clinical research appraisal — evaluates surgical literature for methodological rigor, applies findings to practice, and identifies gaps warranting further study Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Systems-level diagnostic leadership — leads institutional review of misdiagnosis patterns and implements corrective decision-support tools for the surgical team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Care team integration — participates constructively in multidisciplinary rounds, contributing surgical perspective while respecting other clinicians' expertise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Referral relationship building — communicates respectfully and clearly with referring providers to establish collaborative patient care partnerships O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Anesthesia-surgery coordination — collaborates with anesthesiology team during preoperative planning and intraoperative management to optimize patient safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared decision-making — partners with patients, families, and primary care providers to co-create treatment plans that align surgical options with patient values Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multidisciplinary case management — co-manages complex patients across surgical, neurological, rehabilitative, and primary care disciplines, maintaining shared treatment goals O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Surgical team performance cultivation — builds cohesive operating room team culture that promotes psychological safety, clear role definition, and mutual accountability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Cross-institutional consultation — collaborates with surgeons at other centers on unusual cases, shared protocols, or transferred patients requiring continuity of care Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collaborative protocol authorship — co-develops clinical pathways and surgical care standards with multidisciplinary teams that are adopted across departments or health systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Inter-specialty education partnerships — designs joint training programs with neurology, orthopedics, or rehabilitation medicine to build shared clinical competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Professional conduct — adheres to surgical ethics standards, maintains confidentiality, and represents the profession with integrity in all patient interactions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability acceptance — acknowledges errors or limitations in clinical judgment without deflection and reports concerns through appropriate channels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Ethical consent practice — ensures patients provide genuinely informed, uncoerced consent by presenting complete information and honoring patient autonomy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Boundary maintenance — preserves professional boundaries with patients, families, and colleagues in emotionally charged or high-stakes clinical situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adverse event transparency — discloses surgical complications or unexpected outcomes to patients and families honestly and promptly in accordance with ethical and legal obligations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equitable care delivery — provides consistent quality of surgical assessment and treatment regardless of patient background, insurance status, or personal characteristics Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer accountability modeling — addresses unprofessional or unsafe behavior by colleagues directly and through institutional channels, upholding team standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethics consultation leadership — leads institutional ethics discussions involving complex surgical cases where patient autonomy, beneficence, and resource allocation intersect Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professionalism culture building — shapes departmental norms of integrity, respectful communication, and accountability through visible modeling and structured expectation-setting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Adaptive technique exploration — considers alternative procedural approaches when standard surgical technique is anatomically or clinically impractical Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient-specific problem framing — reframes a patient's presenting complaint beyond textbook categories to consider unconventional diagnostic possibilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Intraoperative improvisation — modifies surgical strategy in response to unexpected intraoperative findings using available instruments and informed anatomical knowledge Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Custom rehabilitation planning — co-designs post-operative recovery protocols tailored to individual patient anatomy, goals, and lifestyle factors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Novel approach application — applies emerging minimally invasive or technology-assisted surgical techniques to cases where conventional approaches carry elevated risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Diagnostic innovation — integrates unconventional combinations of chiropractic, functional, and systemic assessments to detect complex neuromusculoskeletal pathologies O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Patient education innovation — develops visual aids, digital tools, or demonstration models to communicate procedural concepts to patients with low health literacy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Surgical technique refinement — develops and refines procedural innovations that improve patient outcomes and are disseminated through peer-reviewed publication or professional training Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Program design creativity — architects novel clinical service lines or interdisciplinary care models that address unmet surgical needs in underserved populations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — receives constructive critique of surgical technique or clinical decisions from supervisors without defensiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Complication learning orientation — approaches own surgical complications as sources of learning rather than fixed indicators of ability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill challenge pursuit — volunteers for complex cases or cross-training opportunities that extend beyond current technical comfort zone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. CME engagement — actively pursues continuing medical education in evolving surgical techniques, diagnostics, and patient management approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Outcome feedback integration — systematically reviews own patient outcome metrics and modifies practice patterns in response to data-driven feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer benchmarking — compares personal surgical outcomes to regional and national peers to identify performance gaps and growth targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Technology adoption — embraces and masters emerging surgical technologies, imaging modalities, or diagnostic systems that require significant retraining Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Growth culture creation — instills a culture of continuous improvement within the surgical department by normalizing feedback, celebrating learning, and rewarding measured risk-taking Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Research-driven practice evolution — leads or participates in clinical research to challenge existing surgical paradigms and incorporate evidence-based advancements into daily practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Operative focus maintenance — sustains attention during routine procedures, minimizing distraction from environmental noise or interpersonal dynamics in the operating room Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional awareness — recognizes own stress or emotional responses during challenging patient encounters and prevents these from affecting clinical judgment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Preoperative centering — employs intentional preparation routines before complex surgical cases to ensure optimal focus, equipment readiness, and mental clarity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient distress attunement — detects subtle signs of patient anxiety or discomfort during examination and adjusts pace and approach with intentional responsiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-stakes equanimity — maintains composed, deliberate decision-making during intraoperative crises such as hemorrhage, unexpected anatomy, or equipment failure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Compassionate presence — provides emotionally attuned support to patients receiving serious diagnoses or facing high-risk procedures, demonstrating full present engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Team emotion regulation — monitors and moderates emotional climate within the operating room, de-escalating tension while maintaining procedural momentum Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful leadership modeling — demonstrates and teaches mindfulness-based stress management strategies to surgical residents coping with high-pressure training environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic awareness — identifies patterns in institutional stress, burnout, or attentional fatigue within the surgical team and advocates for structural interventions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude10 statements
Emerging
  1. Complication tolerance — continues to engage constructively after a difficult case outcome rather than withdrawing from challenging patient care responsibilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Physical endurance acceptance — accepts and prepares for the physical demands of extended operative procedures and demanding call schedules Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Uncertainty management — proceeds with measured clinical decision-making in diagnostically ambiguous cases without requiring certainty before acting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Error recovery — returns to full clinical effectiveness following a surgical complication or adverse outcome, applying lessons learned without loss of professional confidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-acuity case persistence — sustains technical precision and clinical judgment through lengthy, high-complexity procedures where fatigue and decision demands are elevated Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult patient navigation — maintains professional effectiveness with chronically challenging patients, non-adherent patients, or those with complex psychosocial needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis composure — leads the surgical team calmly through intraoperative emergencies, sustaining team function under conditions of maximum pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic adversity leadership — guides the surgical department through institutional crises, resource shortages, or public health emergencies without abandoning quality and safety standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous advocacy — challenges unsafe institutional practices, inadequate resources, or unethical directives despite professional risk, prioritizing patient welfare Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Resilience mentorship — coaches surgical trainees and junior colleagues through career-defining setbacks, modeling adaptive coping and sustained professional commitment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors38 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Brain Surgeon · Cardiac Surgeon · Cardiovascular Surgeon · Colorectal Surgeon · Neurological Surgeon · Neurosurgeon · Plastic Surgeon · Reconstructive Surgeon · Surgical Oncologist · Thoracic Surgeon · Vascular Surgeon
RAPIDS apprenticeships
O*NET skills
Active ListeningCritical ThinkingReading ComprehensionSpeakingSocial PerceptivenessMonitoringJudgment and Decision MakingWriting
Knowledge domains
Medicine and DentistryCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageBiologyPsychologyEducation and TrainingTherapy and CounselingComputers and Electronics
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionProblem SensitivityOral ExpressionWritten ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningInductive Reasoning
Work styles
Attention to DetailDependabilityCautiousnessIntegrityCooperationSelf-Control
Technology
Spreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwareWord processing softwareMedical softwareWeb page creation and editing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Evaluate the functioning of the neuromuscularskeletal system and the spine using systems of chiropractic diagn
  2. Diagnose health problems by reviewing patients' health and medical histories, questioning, observing, and exam
  3. Perform a series of manual adjustments to the spine or other articulations of the body to correct the musculos
  4. Obtain and record patients' medical histories.
CIP education codes
51.120151.120261.010161.019961.029961.100161.109961.170161.170261.179961.210161.210261.210361.219961.270161.270261.270361.270461.270661.270761.270861.279961.280161.289961.9999

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.