Orthopedic surgeon jobs in Edinburg, TX - 21 jobs

DOCS Health is seeking talented General Dentists, Endodontists, and Oral Surgeons to bring essential dental care directly to our Military Service Members. Join our team in a unique opportunity to conduct dental exams and treatments that ensure soldiers are deployment-ready. Travel nationwide for weekend events dedicated to serving those who protect our country, and you will have the option to practice with the full support of DOCS Health's malpractice coverage. Why Join Us? Serve with Purpose: Provide vital care to members of the U.S. Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Forces Reserve, Coast Guard Reserve, National Guard, and Air National Guard. Malpractice Coverage: Practice with confidence under DOCS Health's comprehensive malpractice insurance (optional) Nationwide Deployment Impact: Participate in events that support soldiers' readiness across the country. Fully Equipped Support: DOCS Health supplies all necessary materials, equipment, and resources to enable seamless mobile dentistry. Leader in Mobile Health: With over 30 years of experience, DOCS Health is a trusted provider, setting a new care standard through our mobile, telemedicine, and fixed-clinic models. Your Role: Conduct exams, screenings, and comprehensive dental treatments (restorative, endodontics, oral surgery) for military personnel. Utilize mobile equipment to deliver quality care in non-traditional settings. Requirements Qualifications: Licensure & Certification: Active, unrestricted state dental license and CPR/BLS certification. Preferred Skills: Experience with mobile dental equipment, military experience a plus, and computer proficiency. Availability: Participation is flexible and completely up to you-choose events that fit your schedule, with a focus on weekend availability to support military readiness *Verification of licensure and a Malpractice check will be conducted for all providers. About Us: DOCS Health is driven by clinicians and logistical experts who believe in doing the right thing for those we serve. With over three decades of dedicated service, we are a leader in healthcare delivery. Join us in our mission to build a bridge to better health for our nation's service members Apply today and make a difference with your skills in service of those who serve. With over three decades of experience, we are a trusted industry leader. Our experienced team of clinicians and logistics professionals are dedicated, and strive to do the right thing for our partners and their members every time. Because of this commitment, we've set a new standard of care delivery through our fixed-clinic, mobile treatment center, telemedicine, and portable deployment models. Join our team, and become a part of a bridge for better health. ________________________________________ If you are made a conditional offer of employment, you will be required to undergo background check (including criminal record check) and drug screening. We use E-Verify in our hiring process. DOCS Health is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunity. All employment decisions, policies, and practices are in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. DOCS Health will not engage in or tolerate unlawful discrimination (including any form of unlawful harassment) on account of a person's sex (including pregnancy), age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender nonconformity, status as a transgender individual, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, family responsibility, armed services, or any other status protected by law.

Opportunity Details Orthopedic Total Joint Surgeon opportunity in the thriving McAllen/Edinburg, Texas area! Join our established private practice orthopedic group with 4 experienced surgeons specializing in comprehensive musculoskeletal care. Rio Grande Valley: 1.8 million Patients. 3 Airports. Endless Sunshine. Physician Shortage. Your Medical Practice Awaits. Practice Highlights Private practice orthopedic surgery opportunity Join team of 4 established surgeons Total joint surgery focus with high case volume Orthopedic practice with strong referral network Immediate patient volume - busy from day one McAllen/Edinburg orthopedic surgery in high-demand market Advanced orthopedic surgery center and hospital affiliations Loan Assistance offered Requirements Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon or Board Eligible Texas medical license (or ability to obtain) Spanish not required South Texas Advantages No State income tax and tort reform state Lower cost of living with year-round warm climate 80 miles from South Padre Island Three regional airports for easy travel Family-friendly community with rich cultural heritage STHS is owned and operated by a subsidiary of Universal Health Services (UHS), one of the nation's largest healthcare management companies Located in the vibrant Rio Grande Valley, McAllen/Edinburg offers a multicultural and bilingual community with over 1.8 million residents. Experience a high quality of life with a low cost of living, making it one of the least expensive metro areas in the nation. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life, safe neighborhoods, and a welcoming communal environment. With year-round sunshine and tropical breezes, enjoy mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, golfing, and relaxing on South Padre Island's beaches. The region also offers easy access to national and international destinations with three airports nearby. If you are interested in this opportunity, please email me with your CV. Samantha Barnett In-house Physician Recruiter *************************** ************

Requirements Qualifications: Licensure & Certification: Active, unrestricted state dental license and CPR/BLS certification. Preferred Skills: Experience with mobile dental equipment, military experience a plus, and computer proficiency. Availability: Participation is flexible and completely up to you-choose events that fit your schedule, with a focus on weekend availability to support military readiness *Verification of licensure and a Malpractice check will be conducted for all providers. About Us: DOCS Health is driven by clinicians and logistical experts who believe in doing the right thing for those we serve. With over three decades of dedicated service, we are a leader in healthcare delivery. Join us in our mission to build a bridge to better health for our nation's service members Apply today and make a difference with your skills in service of those who serve. With over three decades of experience, we are a trusted industry leader. Our experienced team of clinicians and logistics professionals are dedicated, and strive to do the right thing for our partners and their members every time. Because of this commitment, we've set a new standard of care delivery through our fixed-clinic, mobile treatment center, telemedicine, and portable deployment models. Join our team, and become a part of a bridge for better health. ________________________________________ If you are made a conditional offer of employment, you will be required to undergo background check (including criminal record check) and drug screening. We use E-Verify in our hiring process. DOCS Health is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunity. All employment decisions, policies, and practices are in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. DOCS Health will not engage in or tolerate unlawful discrimination (including any form of unlawful harassment) on account of a person's sex (including pregnancy), age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender nonconformity, status as a transgender individual, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, family responsibility, armed services, or any other status protected by law.

Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist Position! We are looking for a caring and compassionate Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist. We are a well -established and thriving Private Podiatry Practice. We have a highly trained staff to help support you. We are committed to delivering high -quality healthcare services to all of our patients. Our practice treats Adult patients. We are looking for either a Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist! We are open: Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm Closed on the weekends! We are offering: $150K - $250K + Benefits! Requirements Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) Degree. Board Eligible or Board Certified in Podiatry. Texas Podiatrist License in good standing. Experienced Podiatrists and Recent Graduates are welcomed! We provide support and mentorship for Recent Grads. BenefitsFull Benefit Package including Medical, Dental, Vacation, PTO, 401K Plan, Etc.

Urologist - McAllen, TX We are in a search for an Employed Urology Opportunity with our client in McAllen, TX. The Urologist will have the option of being employed by the hospital or receiving an income guarantee. This is a great opportunity to start your own practice in an area that is experiencing tremendous growth and a strong economy. Call will be shared with other Urologists in the area. The hospital will offer a very generous compensation package. The primary care and other specialist physicians in the community and around welcome a new Urologist to the hospitals. It is expected the practice will develop a strong referral base quickly.

Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist position in Weslaco, TX. Are you looking to make a change? Are you unhappy, not fulfilled, unmotivated, bored or simply just ready for the next chapter? Don't get stuck in a rut or be unhappy, life is too short! We have a fantastic opportunity for you! We are seeking a Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist to join us! We are an established Private Outpatient Practice that treats Adult patients. We are open to Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist candidates. We offer great flexibility! Our practice hours are: Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm We are closed on the weekends! We are paying $150K - $250K per year + Full Benefits! Our Requirements are: Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree. Texas Podiatrist License in good standing. We prefer previous Podiatry experience. We are open to Recent Graduates, we offer support and training. Apply now with your CV or resume for more details! Package Details

Please be advised, if you are viewing this position on Indeed, that the salary rate/range set forth herein was provided by Indeed. Concentra's market specific rate/range will be provided during the interview process. Concentra, one of the largest health care companies in the nation, is looking for an orthopedic surgeon to come on site to our location as a 1099 independent contractor. This role is a contract position and is meant to compliment your current practice. A typical partnership will involve treating patients on site at Concentra for approximately a 4-hour shift on a weekly or biweekly basis. Concentra Advanced Specialists assist in the management of medically complex patients, expedite return to work and functional restoration. Working collaboratively with medical and therapy providers, you will provide specialist services, both non-surgical and surgical, for orthopedic and neuromusculoskeletal work related injuries. In addition, you will communicate with employers and take an active role in the case management. The treatments you provide will make a tremendous difference in the lives of those who look to us for care and comfort. Responsibilities Half a day per week or biweekly Flexible scheduling with consideration of your private practice This position is an independent contractor role for Concentra. Compensation for services is determined by a revenue share model. Qualifications Preferred experience in treating patients with work related injuries Licensure requirements of the state of practice Graduate of accredited MD or DO program of accredited university Unrestricted DEA license for state of jurisdiction Board Certification or Board Eligibility in Orthopedic Surgery Must have Medical Malpractice Insurance which will cover you while on site Additional Data Concentra is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination, and will make decisions regarding employment opportunities, including hiring, promotion and advancement, without regard to the following characteristics: race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, military status, marital status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local fair employment practice laws.

HealthPlus is assisting one of the largest Healthcare groups in the U.S with their search for an Urologist to work at one of their facilities.This is an employed opportunitythat offers the opportunity to own your own practice.. The position offers amazing benefits such as paid malpractice, sign-on bonus, and CME allowance. Compensation will be based on the MGMA physician compensation number fup to the 75th %tile. Requirements: Board Certified or Board Eligible in Urology. Licensed in TX or willing to obtain license. Available to work 4-5 days per week Bilingual preferred - not required If interested in this opportunity please reach us at Recruitment@HealthPlusStaffing.com or 561-291-7787. The HealthPlus Team

Please be advised, if you are viewing this position on Indeed, that the salary rate/range set forth herein was provided by Indeed. Concentra's market specific rate/range will be provided during the interview process. Concentra, one of the largest health care companies in the nation, is looking for an orthopedic surgeon to come on site to our location as a 1099 independent contractor. This role is a contract position and is meant to compliment your current practice. A typical partnership will involve treating patients on site at Concentra for approximately a 4-hour shift on a weekly or biweekly basis. Concentra Advanced Specialists assist in the management of medically complex patients, expedite return to work and functional restoration. Working collaboratively with medical and therapy providers, you will provide specialist services, both non-surgical and surgical, for orthopedic and neuromusculoskeletal work related injuries. In addition, you will communicate with employers and take an active role in the case management. The treatments you provide will make a tremendous difference in the lives of those who look to us for care and comfort. Responsibilities Half a day per week or biweekly Flexible scheduling with consideration of your private practice This position is an independent contractor role for Concentra. Compensation for services is determined by a revenue share model. Qualifications Preferred experience in treating patients with work related injuries Licensure requirements of the state of practice Graduate of accredited MD or DO program of accredited university Unrestricted DEA license for state of jurisdiction Board Certification or Board Eligibility in Orthopedic Surgery Must have Medical Malpractice Insurance which will cover you while on site Additional Data Concentra is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination, and will make decisions regarding employment opportunities, including hiring, promotion and advancement, without regard to the following characteristics: race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status, military status, marital status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local fair employment practice laws.

The UTRGV SOM seeks a Board-Certified Fellowship trained Hand Surgeon to expand our specialty practice and be Core Faculty in a developing Orthopedic Residency. As a Core Faculty member, selected candidate will participate in direct patient care, scholarly activity, faculty development, patient safety and quality improvement initiatives, prepare and provide didactics, participate in the evaluation of the residents & the program, and prepare for and participate in ACGME and other accreditation and non-accreditation site visits. As faculty, they will also administer and maintain a professional educational environment conducive to educating residents in each of the ACGME competencies and in assisting them to reach their individual Milestones. Academic rank and title will be awarded commensurate with academic qualifications and certification. Minimum Qualifications MD degree with Board Certification or Board Eligible (fellowship trained) Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery (American Board of Orthopedic Surgery). Must possess or be eligible for a Texas Medical license. Discipline Specific Required Qualifications Preferred Qualifications Experience in a GME Accredited Residency or Fellowship Program. License or Certification Required? Yes Salary Desired Start Date 10/01/2026

Full-Time Mohs Surgeon Position in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas Job-7691 **Accepting 2026 Mohs Fellow applications! **Dermatologists Seeking a Career Pivot into Mohs - Training Available! A physician-owned, mission-driven dermatology group in South Texas' culturally rich Rio Grande Valley is growing - and they're inviting Mohs surgeons (or dermatologists passionate about becoming one) to shape the future with them. This is not a plug-and-play position. It's a highly flexible, purpose-built role within a respected practice that puts mentorship, autonomy and lifelong learning at the heart of its culture. What Makes This Opportunity Stand Apart... Tailored to You: Full-time or part-time schedules available - this role flexes around your lifestyle and professional goals. Mohs with Meaning: Join a team where your surgical skills are valued, and your impact is multiplied by teaching and mentoring the next generation. Derm-to-Mohs Training Track: For dermatologists eager to specialize, this group offers robust, hands-on training in Mohs surgery. Academic Engagement: A rare private practice with a strong academic component - guide residents and fellows while staying rooted in real-world care. APP Leadership: Oversee advanced practice providers with a stipend to recognize your leadership and collaboration. Top-Tier Compensation: Enjoy a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, 401(k), paid time off anda path to partnership. About the Practice: This is a group where collegiality is more than a buzzword - it's how they operate. Expect a culture built on shared learning, clinical integrity and the kind of deep support that lets you thrive both professionally and personally.Physicians here are known for their longevity, satisfaction and impact. Why the Rio Grande Valley? Think: 365 days of sunshine, a richly diverse community, vibrant cross-cultural living and a cost of living that lets your career take you further. The region offers family-friendly communities, growing economic opportunities and no state income tax . Whether you're into food, festivals, birding or borderland charm, this is a place that celebrates life - and welcomes newcomers with open arms. This is more than just another Mohs position - it's your opportunity to build something truly your own, with the backing of people who believe in you! Interested in learning how this role can be shaped around you? Let's connect. Apply online today or email your confidential CV to Nancy@my DermRecruiter.com for immediate consideration. There's never a fee for career seekers, and you can trust that all inquiries are held strictly confidential. Nancy Agee Dermatology Recruitment Specialist ************** Ext. 111 Nancy@my DermRecruiter.com Download the app (Listed compensation is estimated and may change based on days worked, experience, production and bonuses.)

Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist Position! We are looking for a caring and compassionate Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist. We are a well -established and thriving Private Podiatry Practice. We have a highly trained staff to help support you. We are committed to delivering high -quality healthcare services to all of our patients. Our practice treats Adult patients. We are looking for either a Full Time or Part Time Podiatrist! We are open: Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm Closed on the weekends! We are offering: $150K - $250K + Benefits! Requirements Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) Degree. Board Eligible or Board Certified in Podiatry. Texas Podiatrist License in good standing. Experienced Podiatrists and Recent Graduates are welcomed! We provide support and mentorship for Recent Grads. BenefitsFull Benefit Package including Medical, Dental, Vacation, PTO, 401K Plan, Etc.

Job DescriptionHealthPlus is assisting one of the largest Healthcare groups in the U.S with their search for an Urologist to work at one of their facilities.This is an employed opportunitythat offers the opportunity to own your own practice.. The position offers amazing benefits such as paid malpractice, sign-on bonus, and CME allowance. Compensation will be based on the MGMA physician compensation number fup to the 75th %tile. Requirements: Board Certified or Board Eligible in Urology. Licensed in TX or willing to obtain license. Available to work 4-5 days per week Bilingual preferred - not required If interested in this opportunity please reach us at Recruitment@HealthPlusStaffing.com or 561-291-7787. The HealthPlus Team

Opportunity Details South Texas Health System Clinics is seeking a dedicated Board-Certified Pediatric Surgeon to join our comprehensive children's hospital program in Edinburg/McAllen, Texas. This exceptional pediatric surgery opportunity offers the chance to establish a thriving pediatric surgery practice in the rapidly growing Rio Grande Valley. This pediatric surgeon position offers immediate patient volume with comprehensive children's surgical services including neonatal surgery, pediatric trauma, and minimally invasive pediatric surgery. Rio Grande Valley: 1.8 million Patients. 3 Airports. Endless Sunshine. Physician Shortage. Your Medical Practice Awaits. Program Highlights New GME Program with General Surgery Residency starting 2027 Pediatric trauma surgery supports trauma research opportunities Teaching hospital environment with pediatric surgery residency potential Academic pediatric surgery position with research support At South Texas Health System, we provide complete pediatric subspecialty care including: Pediatric intensive care with board-certified pediatric intensivists Pediatric hospitalist services and pediatric emergency medicine Pediatric anesthesiology and pediatric pain management Pediatric physical therapy and rehabilitation services Pediatric sleep medicine and pediatric pulmonology Pediatric cardiology and congenital heart surgery support Pediatric orthopedics and pediatric sports medicine Pediatric infectious disease and pediatric neurology Pediatric ENT surgery and pediatric audiology Pediatric behavioral health and child psychiatry programs Pediatric hematology-oncology partnerships and childhood cancer care Requirements Board Certified Pediatric Surgeon Pediatric surgery fellowship completed Texas medical license (or ability to obtain) Spanish not required but a plus Benefits Full health, dental, vision coverage Life & disability insurance Generous PTO package 401(k) with company match Employee stock purchase plan Loan Assistance offered South Texas Advantages No State income tax and tort reform state Lower cost of living with year-round warm climate 80 miles from South Padre Island Three regional airports for easy travel Family-friendly community with rich cultural heritage South Texas Health System (STHS) is a regional multi-hospital system with an established reputation for excellence in providing quality healthcare to Rio Grande Valley residents. STHS offers comprehensive medical services including cardiovascular care, maternity and women's health, emergency and surgical care, plus specialty programs in chest pain, pediatrics, diabetes, wound care, bariatric surgery, orthopedics, neurosurgery, rehabilitation and behavioral health services. STHS is owned and operated by a subsidiary of Universal Health Services (UHS), one of the nation's largest healthcare management companies Located in the vibrant Rio Grande Valley, McAllen/Edinburg offers a multicultural and bilingual community with over 1.8 million residents. Experience a high quality of life with a low cost of living, making it one of the least expensive metro areas in the nation. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life, safe neighborhoods, and a welcoming communal environment. With year-round sunshine and tropical breezes, enjoy mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, golfing, and relaxing on South Padre Island's beaches. The region also offers easy access to national and international destinations with three airports nearby. If you are interested in this opportunity, please email me with your CV. Samantha Barnett In-house Physician Recruiter *************************** ************

Minimum Qualifications MD degree with Board Certification or board eligibility in General Surgery and completion of an ACGME residency program. Must possess or be eligible for a Texas Medical License and qualified to hold a faculty appointment in the Surgery ISU as the UTRGV School of Medicine and appropriate hospital staff appointments. Preferred Qualifications The ideal candidate should have a proven record of clinical excellence, experience in an educational environment, outstanding communication skills, and demonstration of strong commitment to the education of residents and medical students. In addition, the preferred candidate will be fellowship trained in vascular surgery and/or Breast surgery.

Opportunity Details South Texas Health System Clinics is seeking a dedicated Board Certified Urologist to join our prestigious multi-specialty medical group in Edinburg/McAllen, Texas. This exceptional urologist opportunity offers the chance to establish your urology practice in the thriving Rio Grande Valley and achieve immediate patient volume from day one! Rio Grande Valley: 1.8 million Patients. 3 Airports. Endless Sunshine. Physician Shortage. Your Medical Practice Awaits. Position Requirements Board Certified Urologist or Board Eligible Texas medical license (or ability to obtain) Spanish not required Opportunity Highlights Hospital employed urologist position available Urology practice with shared call coverage Practice development support and marketing assistance High demand area for urological services Comprehensive urology program with advanced technology State-of-the-art surgical suites and urological equipment 3 da Vinci robotic surgery systems available Comprehensive robotic surgery program Physician partnership opportunities Compensation Highly competitive salary for urologist Performance-based incentives and productivity bonuses Physician signing bonus & relocation package CME allowance for continuing medical education Malpractice insurance coverage provided Benefits Full health, dental, vision coverage Life & disability insurance Generous PTO package 401(k) with company match Employee stock purchase plan Loan Assistance offered South Texas Advantages No State income tax and tort reform state Lower cost of living with year-round warm climate 80 miles from South Padre Island Three regional airports for easy travel Family-friendly community with rich cultural heritage South Texas Health System (STHS) is a regional multi-hospital system with an established reputation for excellence in providing quality healthcare to Rio Grande Valley residents. STHS offers comprehensive medical services including cardiovascular care, maternity and women's health, emergency and surgical care, plus specialty programs in chest pain, pediatrics, diabetes, wound care, bariatric surgery, orthopedics, neurosurgery, rehabilitation and behavioral health services. STHS is owned and operated by a subsidiary of Universal Health Services (UHS), one of the nation's largest healthcare management companies Located in the vibrant Rio Grande Valley, McAllen/Edinburg offers a multicultural and bilingual community with over 1.8 million residents. Experience a high quality of life with a low cost of living, making it one of the least expensive metro areas in the nation. Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life, safe neighborhoods, and a welcoming communal environment. With year-round sunshine and tropical breezes, enjoy mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, golfing, and relaxing on South Padre Island's beaches. The region also offers easy access to national and international destinations with three airports nearby. If you are interested in this opportunity, please email me with your CV. Samantha Barnett In-house Physician Recruiter *************************** ************

Minimum Qualifications MD degree with Board Certification in General Surgery or board eligible and completion of an ACGME residency program. Must possess or be eligible for a Texas Medical License. Experience in Medical Education. Preferred Qualifications Fellowship in Surgical Critical Care, Trauma.

Seeking Physician Assistants (PA) to join our growing Trauma Team STHS McAllen. This role offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits for qualified healthcare professionals. NIGHTS ONLY Full-Time PA Trauma Surgery Opportunity STHS * Manage pre-operative and post-operative patients in coordination with the trauma surgeons. * Performs tertiary examinations of trauma registered patients and provides episodic care or problem-oriented care under the direction of trauma surgeons. * Assist the trauma department with quality performance improvement projects. * Conduct complex, standardized patient care procedures which require experience and specialized training which would otherwise be performed by a trauma surgeon, but which do not constitute the practice of medicine. * Assess patient's medical complaints and provide appropriate treatment. * Perform various minor surgical procedures as delegated by the supervising physician. * Utilize advanced assessments skills to anticipate complex patient problems specific to trauma while communicating information to the trauma surgeon * Order appropriate laboratory test and exams and interpret data with trauma surgeon. * Monitors treatment program of the patient to inform trauma surgeon of pertinent medical/surgical information. * Responds to emergency trauma alerts * Performs other duties as assigned. South Texas Health System Clinics, a comprehensive network of care, includes six hospitals, several freestanding emergency rooms, multiple physician practices, and a wide range of outpatient services. Contract Samantha for more information ***************************

Minimum Qualifications MD degree with current Board certification, or eligibility for certification in Vascular Surgery. Must possess or be eligible for a Texas Medical Board full license/ ABS board certification in Vascular Surgery/Residency completed at an ACGME accredited residency program and qualified to hold a faculty appointment in the Department of Surgery at the UTRGV School of Medicine and appropriate hospital staff appointments. Preferred Qualifications The ideal candidate should have: · A proven record of clinical excellence · Experience in an educational environment · Outstanding communication skills · Demonstration of strong commitment to the education of residents and medical students is essential.