As we continue celebrating 50 years of the North Carolina Academy of Physician Associates, we turn our focus to the members who helped shape the profession through their work, leadership, and commitment to care.
The Focus on Fifty series is about the people behind the progress—those who stepped into new spaces, expanded what was possible, and helped define the role of PAs across North Carolina.
This month, we’re proud to highlight Elmira Powell, PA-C, a pioneer in women’s health within the PA profession.
A Career Built on Involvement
Elmira Powell’s journey with NCAPA began at the very start of her career.
After graduating from PA school in 1986, she quickly became involved in the Academy, encouraged by classmates who recognized the importance of engagement and advocacy early on. What she found was an organization driven entirely by volunteers—but structured, purposeful, and committed to moving the profession forward.
Even in its earlier stages, NCAPA stood out.
“We were kind of in an adolescent stage as an academy,” she reflects. “Since that time… the academy has kind of taken off.”
Over the years, Elmira has witnessed that growth firsthand—from a volunteer-led organization to a mature, forward-thinking Academy with a clear identity and expanding influence.
Finding a Passion in Women’s Health
While her original interest was in surgery, Elmira’s path shifted through experience.
After working in student health, emergency medicine, and public health, an opportunity in an OB-GYN practice introduced her to a new specialty—one that would ultimately define her career.
What began as an unexpected opportunity became a lasting passion.
In women’s health, Elmira found a space where she could do more than treat patients—she could educate, empower, and build trust.
“I appreciate being able to… educate them on their bodies, on what’s available for them… the choices that they have.”
For many patients, these conversations go beyond clinical care. They create a space where women feel comfortable discussing topics they may not share anywhere else—making the PA’s role both deeply personal and impactful.
Expanding the Role of PAs
When Elmira entered the profession, opportunities for PAs in obstetrics and gynecology were limited.
Historically dominated by other provider types, the specialty did not always include a strong PA presence. But that has begun to change.
“There are not a lot of PAs in obstetrics or gynecology… but more and more physician assistants are moving into that area.”
As more PAs enter the field, they bring new perspectives and help shape how care is delivered—ensuring the specialty continues to evolve alongside the profession.
A Foundation Built to Last
Throughout her career, Elmira has remained confident in the direction of both NCAPA and the profession as a whole.
“We established a solid foundation. We created great credibility,” she says.
That foundation—built through thoughtful leadership, careful decision-making, and a commitment to doing what’s right for patients and providers—continues to guide the Academy today.
Looking Ahead
Focus on Fifty is about recognizing the individuals who helped shape where we are—and understanding how their work continues to influence where we’re going.
Elmira Powell’s career reflects the impact of stepping into new spaces, building trust with patients, and helping expand the role of PAs in meaningful ways.
As the profession continues to grow, so does its reach—into new specialties, new communities, and new opportunities to improve care.
Fifty years in, that work continues—guided by those who helped build the path forward.
Written by Thomas Wellenhofer
NC Academy of PAs Marketing & Communications Coordinator
