Dr. Gary B. Tooley, DHSc, PA-C Emeritus, DFAAPA

Dr. Tooley started his medical career as a combat medic with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. Here he was introduced to the PA profession by one of the first graduates of the Army PA program. During this time, he became one of the first emergency medical technicians in the US (Washington State).

He left active duty to attend physician assistant training in 1975 at the University of Florida PA Program as a member of the 4th class of the program. Dr. Tooley has been a physician assistant for over 40 years and practiced with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, predominantly in emergency medicine for over 35 years. During this time, he precepted many physician assistant students during their clinical rotations. He retired from the VA in 2012. In addition, he served as a military physician assistant with the U.S. Army in various assignments, culminating in two tours in Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) as a senior medical advisor to the Afghan National Army. During his second tour, he wrote the white paper which provided the impetus for the development of the first military PA program in Afghanistan. He retired from the Army in 2012 at the rank of Colonel with 33 years of service.

In 2011, Dr. Tooley was recruited to the Christian Brothers University PA program as the Director of Academics. He is also a veteran of many faith-based international medical mission trips. In his spare time, Dr. Tooley enjoys traveling, taking care of a home on eight acres, seeing his grandchildren, and music.

Research: Cultural awareness and competency in healthcare delivery

Teaching: Primary areas of instruction include general medicine, physical examination, and emergency medicine