Andrew Charles Allen joined Desert Orthopedic Center in 2004 after receiving a Master’s of medical science from the Yale University School of Medicine in 2003. He is the physician assistant for Dr. Stephen O’Connell, who specializes in orthopedics of the hand and shoulder.
While at Yale, Andrew completed, with honors, rotations in general surgery, trauma surgery and orthopedic surgery, all of which included critical care/ICU experience. While a degree from Yale tends to impress, he explains his objectives in choosing a school were based more on practicality than image.
“I found the physician assistant role was perfect for me, so I sought out the best opportunity,” he says.
A native of Ohio, Andrew achieved the basis of his medical expertise as a hospital corpsman in the U.S. Navy from 1991 to 1996.
After leaving the service, Andrew attended the University of Southern California where he received a bachelor’s degree in gerontology in 2001. He then attended Yale. He earned academic honors at both USC and Yale and augmented his academic efforts with volunteer work and internships in medicine.
Andrew is a certified physician assistant and a member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants, American Association of Surgical Physician Assistants and the Gerontological Society of America.
“It’s a great opportunity to work as a physician assistant with a doctor who allows you to maximize your skills and develop the subtle nuances of treating a patient.”
