Jose Hernandez, PA-C, began his journey in medicine as a teenager. His father’s health was deteriorating with a condition that led to a leg fracture which rendered him unable to walk. It required orthopedic surgery and the physician’s assistant gave his family endless education and support as he recovered. Hernandez never forgot.

He first became a certified medical assistant and worked for Kodiak Area Native Association where he served as an MA, community health aid, laboratory lead and a member of the quality assurance leadership team. Along the way he earned his associate’s degree from the University of Alaska at Anchorage then his bachelor’s of Clinical Heath Services from the University of Washington in Seattle.

Today he is a vital member of the OPA team, helping Alaskans live their lives to the fullest – while enjoying a full life with his family out fishing and hiking. When he’s not working he also enjoys cooking, hunting and putting his healing and recovery skills to work on his vehicles.