Erika McClain, APA-C

Physician Assistant
Army - Active Duty
Jacksonville, FL 32219
Erika McClain, APA-C

Erika McClain is an active duty Physician Assistant 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, launching 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, where she supports 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 to soldiers in high-demand operational environments, ensuring they remain medically fit to perform critical missions. Currently stationed in Germany, she plays a key role in supporting ongoing operations to include Operation Epic Fury, delivering care to those directly involved in complex and often 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 her adaptability and resilience, and her continued service overseas reflects a deep commitment to caring for those who serve.

• 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
Q

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