POTSDAM -- Jeremy M. Welsh, clinical assistant professor of physician assistant studies and director of clinical education at Clarkson University, recently became one of the first PAs to earn a new specialty credential from the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

Welsh was awarded a Certificated of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Emergency Medicine, a distinction earned by meeting license, education and experience requirements and then passing an exam in the specialty. He is one of only 234 certified PAs to earn a CAQ in the program's first year.

CAQs were offered to certified PAs in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedic surgery, emergency medicine, nephrology, and psychiatry.

Certified PAs are licensed and certified health care professionals who practice medicine with physician supervision and bring a breadth of knowledge and skills to patient care. Though their role in any particular workplace is determined in consultation with the supervising physician, certified PAs can take histories, conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventative health care, assist in surgery, perform a variety of procedures and write prescriptions.

Welsh received his bachelor of science degree in biology from Utica College of Syracuse University, his physician assistant certification from Le Moyne College, his master of physician assistant studies from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and his doctor of health services from A.T. Still University.

He is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Society of Emergency Medicine Physician Assistants.

Welsh practices at Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Massena Memorial Hospital.

Clarkson University’s new physician assistant training program is finishing its first semester of operation.

For more information about certified PAs or the CAQ program, visit http://www.nccpa.net.