Alicia Pate, PhD, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C

Dr. Alicia Pate, PhD, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, is a highly accomplished Physician Assistant with more than 22 years of experience in cardiothoracic surgery. Her career reflects a strong commitment to advancing cardiac care through clinical excellence, education, and innovation. She has dedicated her professional life to improving outcomes for patients undergoing complex cardiovascular procedures.

She began her academic journey at John A. Logan College, where she earned her Registered Nurse credential, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. She later completed her Master’s degree at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and most recently achieved her PhD in Doctor of Medical Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences in December 2025, focusing on novel techniques in cardiothoracic surgical training and aortic valve replacement innovation.

Dr. Pate spent over 18 years providing direct patient care in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery across multiple hospital systems, including St. Vincent Medical Group, Heartland Regional Medical Center, and Cardiothoracic Surgery Associates. Throughout her clinical career, she developed deep expertise in surgical assistance, perioperative care, and complex cardiovascular procedures, earning recognition for her skill, leadership, and dedication to patient outcomes.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Pate has contributed to medical education and industry advancement. She served as an Associate Professor at Southern Illinois University, helping train future physician assistants. She currently serves as a Cardiac Surgery Account Executive and Clinical Trainer with CORCYM, where she supports surgeons in the use of advanced heart valve technologies, including sutureless and minimally invasive cardiac devices. She is also a Fellow Member of the Association of Physician Assistants in Cardiovascular Surgery and an active member of the Society of Critical Care Medicine.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr. Pate is passionate about education, mentorship, and being a role model, particularly for her two daughters. She is driven by a desire to inspire others in healthcare and is actively pursuing future opportunities in academic teaching and advanced surgical training. Her career is defined by a blend of clinical excellence, leadership in innovation, and a strong commitment to lifelong learning.

• University of Pittsburgh School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences - Ph.D., Doctor of Medical Sciences (DMSc), 2025
• University of Nebraska Medical Center - M.P.A.S., 2007
• Southern Illinois University, Carbondale - B.S., 2004
• John A. Logan College - Registered Nurse, 2000

• PA-C (Certified Physician Assistant)
• DMSc (Doctor of Medical Science)
• PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)
• Fellow Member, Association of Physician Assistants in Cardiovascular Surgery (AACVS)

• Recognition as one of the most accomplished and aspiring women in the United States (as stated in public post)

• Association of Physician Assistants in Cardiovascular Surgery (Fellow Member)
• Society of Critical Care Medicine

• American Heart Association
• Local community causes

Reposts and professional commentary on FDA-cleared cardiac device innovations (e.g., TriMemo™ announcement)
University of Pittsburgh doctoral research on cardiothoracic surgical training innovations in aortic valve replacement therapy