Cutting Edge Care: PA in the Surgical Suite

Want to get into the OR as a PA—but not sure how to start? Feeling the gap between PA school and surgical confidence? Wondering how to switch specialties and keep your life in balance?In this special bonus episode of The PA Playbook, Joshua and Eileen bring you David Bunnell, PA-C— he’s been a cardiothoracic and electrophysiology PA, researcher, educator, father, and a longtime leader in PA advocacy. From his stories about being a paramedic at 18, to harvesting organs, to shaping the future of PA education through game-changing research about building clinical competency, Bunnell brings wisdom, warmth, and real-world experience. He’s lived the balance. Now, he’s ready to lead. He’s helped shape national PA policy. He’s mentored future clinicians. And now, he’s running for AAPA President.From high-stakes surgeries to high-impact leadership, David shares how he’s balanced a demanding career with real life—and how you can build surgical skills, shift specialties, and step confidently into the future of PA practice.With AAPA elections just weeks away, now’s the time to hear from a candidate who’s walked the walk—and has a bold vision for where we go next.