WVU Physician Assistant Studies program appoints new medical director
Jeremiah Hayanga, M.D., MPH, has been appointed as the medical director for the WVU School of Medicine Physician Assistant Studies program.
Dr. Hayanga will support the development of the Physician Assistant Studies program, ensuring that the program meets current practice standards as they relate to the role of physician assistants. He will play an important role in ensuring that program graduates are prepared to meet the evolving needs of clinical practice.
“I am deeply honored and immensely grateful to be selected as the medical director of the WVU PA Studies program,” said Hayanga. “I have watched the growth and success of the Program over the past two years and commend the leadership for their outstanding graduates. This new role is a significant milestone that provides the opportunity for me to contribute to the growth and success of our clinical services throughout the system through active participation and collaboration. I will do all I can to advance the excellence and impact of the program, fostering an environment of innovation, learning and patient-centered care.”
Hayanga, a cardiothoracic surgeon, brings a wealth of experience to the Physician Assistant Studies program through his clinical experience and hospital and healthcare leadership. He is a professor in the Division of Thoracic Surgery, the vice chair of academic affairs for the Department of Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery, and he holds several leadership roles within the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute.
"Dr. Jeremiah Hayanga strongly supports physician assistants and recognizes their positive impact on WVU Medicine and the surrounding community,” said Forrest Olgers, MBA, PA-C, director of clinical education. “Despite his busy clinical practice, he takes the time to educate physician assistant clinicians and students, showcasing his altruistic personality. His leadership traits, clinical excellence and research achievements will enhance the program's current success. His charismatic personality will impact the students' careers as much as it did my personal clinical career.”
The Accreditation and Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) requires that all physician’s assistant programs include a medical director among their faculty. Hayanga’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the WVU Physician Assistant Studies program, as the program was recently awarded Accreditation-Continued status after a multi-stage application and review process.