Erika McClain, PA-C
Erika McClain is an active duty Physician Assistant (PA-C) in the U.S. Army with four years of experience, currently specializing in aviation medicine as an Aero Medical PA. After completing her Physician Assistant training at Florida State University, she was directly commissioned into the Army, beginning a career defined by both clinical excellence and global service. Her role as a flight surgeon-qualified provider places her at the intersection of medicine and mission readiness, supporting the health and operational capability of service members.
Throughout her military career, Erika has cared for a wide range of patients, including active duty soldiers, as well as reserve and National Guard personnel activated for duty. Her expertise in combat and aviation medicine allows her to provide specialized care in high-demand operational environments, ensuring service members remain medically fit to perform critical missions. Currently stationed in Germany, she plays a key role in supporting ongoing operations, including Operation Epic Fury, delivering care to personnel involved in complex and high-tempo assignments.
Erika’s journey into the PA profession was shaped by her desire for both flexibility and impact within the medical field. Originally considering medical school, she ultimately chose the PA path for its versatility and work-life balance, particularly as she looks toward building a family in the future. Her first assignment in South Korea laid the foundation for adaptability and resilience, skills that continue to define her military service overseas.
In addition to her clinical practice, Erika maintains a commitment to professional development and service. She is PA-C certified, flight surgeon-qualified, and a former member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA). Her areas of specialization include aviation medicine, military medicine, and operational readiness, reflecting her dedication to supporting the health, safety, and mission capability of service members around the globe.
• Florida State University
• PA-C
• Flight Surgeon Qualified
• AAPA (former member)
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Aviation Medicine
- Aero Medical PA
- Flight Surgeon Qualified
- Active Duty Military Medicine
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
I've always enjoyed medicine. What drew me to becoming a PA specifically was discovering that you get a lot more laterality and ability to switch out from specialties when you're bored, whereas when you're a doc, you're kind of stuck in it if you don't like it. That flexibility really appealed to me. I also felt that as a female who wants a family, being a PA was a better gig for balancing those priorities.
Locations
Army - Active Duty
Jacksonville, FL 32219