By Ryan Clark
CHS Communications Director

Micah Bragdon knew from an early age that he wanted to find a job where he could help others.

“Growing up, I had the privilege of watching my brother become a successful nurse,” said the 25-year-old Lancaster, Ky., native. “The immense satisfaction he had from being able to help people when they were in their most vulnerable states was the key inspiration that sparked my desire to pursue the healthcare field.”

But he struggled to decide where he would fit in the healthcare system.

“I found myself intrigued by the field of radiology and proceeded to pursue this path,” he said. “Because of this, I was able to work directly with a physician assistant. This opportunity was pivotal in my career because I was able to experience what a PA does and what the career encompasses.”

It changed his life.

“I witnessed firsthand the impact a PA has on their patients, their independence, and their direct involvement in diagnosis and treatment that I was missing as a radiologic technologist,” he said. “My lure to the profession became stronger as I researched the career, observed, and worked alongside numerous physician assistants.”

It led to enrolling in Kentucky’s Physician Assistant Studies program. During that time, he also worked at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center as a CT Tech, where for more than four years he was able to work with Ashley Price, PA-C, in the emergency room, where she is a healthcare provider. (I perform exams on many of her patients, so we interact frequently,” he said.) 

Ashley also happens to be a graduate of the Physician Assistant Studies Program, in 2014.

Friday, Micah and his classmates will be honored at the Physician Assistant Studies White Coat Ceremony 2022, held at 2 p.m. at the Gatton Student Center, Worsham Cinema.

It will be even more special for Micah, because Ashley will be there to present him with his White Coat.

“To me, the White Coat Ceremony symbolizes the start of our journey as medical professionals,” Micah said. “It represents the professionalism, authority and respect that we are to have for our future patients, ourselves and the field of medicine. It is a tremendous honor, and truly humbling to be represented during this ceremony. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to have Ashley Price present to assist during the ceremony. She is someone that has received my utmost respect over the past four years in working with her.”

Micah said that because she is also a graduate of the UKPA program, she was able to help show him the way.  

“She has helped me along the way with any advice and answered any questions I have had,” he said. “Without a doubt, it is my desire that I could become, at least, half the physician assistant that she is, as she is respected and loved by so many in her field and community.”

Ashley said the honor was all hers.  

“It is my honor to present Micah with his white coat,” she said. “I have watched his hard work and determination pay off for this opportunity and am thankful to be here in support of his dreams. Micah will be an excellent asset to our profession and look forward to working with him in the future.”

She added one last comment for Micah before the ceremony:

“The entire ER at Ephraim McDowell is proud of you Micah!” she said. “Keep working hard and come back home!”