This week, McCamey County Hospital District proudly celebrates Physician Assistant Week, honoring the compassionate, highly skilled professionals who help make timely, patient-centered care possible across our community.
At McCamey, our PA is a vital part of the team. Whether they're diagnosing conditions, creating treatment plans, or caring for patients in an emergency, they bring deep clinical knowledge and a personal commitment to those they serve.
"PAs are at the frontlines of care — trusted clinicians who bring experience, versatility, and compassion to every patient interaction," said John O'Hearn, FACHE, Interim CEO of McCamey County Hospital District. "We're incredibly proud of the work they do for our hospital and clinic."
What Is a Physician Assistant?
Physician assistants are licensed medical professionals who practice medicine in collaboration with physicians. They can:
- Conduct physical exams
- Diagnose and treat illnesses
- Order and interpret diagnostic tests
- Prescribe medications
- Assist in surgery
- Deliver patient education and follow-up care
To earn certification, PAs complete extensive training: a bachelor's degree, a master's-level PA program, at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and successful completion of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). They must also complete ongoing education and pass periodic recertification exams.
Meet One of Our Own: John Adams, PA-C
Our talented PA serving McCamey is John Adams, PA-C, who works in our Emergency Department. John served for nine years in the U.S. Army as a medic before becoming a registered nurse, earning his Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) credential, and going on to complete the PA program at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
John brings a unique blend of experience, skill, and calm under pressure to every shift. He is certified in:
- BCLS – Basic Cardiac Life Support
- ACLS – Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support
- PALS – Pediatric Advanced Life Support
- ATLS – Advanced Trauma Life Support
He has worked in emergency departments, rural clinics, and radiology departments — making him a well-rounded and trusted presence for patients and staff alike.
Thank You We are honored to celebrate John this week and every week. His dedication, professionalism, and heart are felt across every corner of our hospital and clinic.
If you see John this week, take a moment to say thank you.
📅 Physician Assistant Week: October 6–12, 2025
💙 Thank you for helping us care, close to home.
