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03/23/2026

Ohio's Michell McDiffett, DMSc, PA-C Honored as an AAPA Distinguished Fellow (DFAAPA)

 

The American Academy of Physician Associates has named Ohio's Michell McDiffett, DMSc, PA-C, as an AAPA Distinguished Fellow!

Recognized for their commitment to advancing the PA profession and the health of their communities, Distinguished Fellows are AAPA's most dedicated members. AAPA established the Distinguished Fellow program in 2007 in order to recognize PAs’ exceptional contributions to the profession through professional achievement, leadership, professional interaction, learning, and community service. Fewer than two percent of the entire AAPA membership have earned the distinction of Distinguished Fellow.

McDiffett Headshot 2024Michell McDiffett, DMSc, PA-C, has recently been honored as a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Physician Associates (DFAAPA). She is a healthcare leader, clinician, and educator with more than 15 years of experience in psychiatry, addiction medicine, and primary care. She serves as Associate Medical Director of Residential Services at Signature Health, Inc., where she leads clinical operations, supports program development, and provides direct patient care for individuals with complex medical and behavioral health needs.
 
PA McDiffett has also contributed to PA education as a former Assistant Clinical Professor and Research and Outcomes Coordinator at Lake Erie College. In this role, she led accreditation efforts, advanced curriculum development in psychiatry and substance use disorders, and supported student success and wellness initiatives. She currently serves as a preceptor for the Lake Erie College PA Program.
 
A dedicated advocate for the PA profession, she has held multiple leadership roles within the OAPA and has been actively involved with national organizations. Her work spans clinical care, education, research, and public health initiatives aimed at improving access and outcomes in underserved populations.
 
PA McDiffett holds a Doctor of Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg, a Master of Science in Health Sciences and Physician Assistant Certificate from Cleveland State University and Cuyahoga Community College, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The Ohio State University.
 
In reflecting on her accomplishment, McDiffett stated "Being named a Distinguished Fellow of the AAPA is an honor and a reflection of the collective work of the mentors, colleagues, and patients who have shaped my journey. This recognition highlights the responsibility we have as PAs to lead, educate, advocate, and innovate beyond the bedside. Our impact grows when we step into roles that influence systems of care, support our communities, and advance the profession for those who follow."

OAPA celebrates the good work of our members and congratulates Michell on this major professional achievement!

Learn more about the AAPA Distinguished Fellows program and see the list of other honorees on the AAPA website.

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