The life-saving impact of a PA career

The University of Iowa Physician Assistant Studies and Services Program has a long history of producing outstanding medical professionals, and Stephen Rumelhart, PA-C, is a shining example of this tradition. A proud alum, Rumelhart’s journey through the world of medicine has been marked by dedication, hard work, and a commitment to patient care.

Rumelhart’s interest in a medical career began in the mid-1970s when he observed physician assistants (PAs) working in Broadlawns Hospital. This early exposure to the PA profession led him to apply to the UI PA program, which he says was a perfect fit for his career goals and lifestyle.

"I came to the University of Iowa because it had a great PA program right in my backyard," Rumelhart recalls. "I applied, got in, and the rest is history."

Rumelhart has witnessed significant growth and changes at the University of Iowa. Reflecting on his time, he notes the expansion of facilities, including the addition of the Stead Family Children's Hospital, which has been a great asset to his field of pediatrics. His first job in emergency medicine at St. Paul-Ramsey Hospital (now Regions Hospital) in Minnesota provided a broad and rigorous introduction to the medical field. However, seeking continuity and a return to Iowa City, he transitioned to the university's Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology in 1987. He has been here ever since, making invaluable contributions to patient care and the medical community. One of the most rewarding aspects of Rumelhart's work, he says, is treating children who live with cancer and then seeing them grow into adulthood.

Rumelhart’s long tenure at the University of Iowa has allowed him to become deeply embedded in the institution’s fabric. His work in bone marrow transplants has been particularly rewarding, providing life-saving treatments and long-term care to patients.

"It's the destination hospital of the state, a tertiary care center where everything is under one roof," he says.

Rumelhart emphasizes the importance of teamwork in medicine, highlighting his early experiences working alongside PAs in a clinic and the collaborative nature of his PA school environment. He values the interdisciplinary approach, where PA students train hand-in-hand with medical students, fostering a sense of preparedness and mutual respect. Throughout his career, he has aimed to embody and promote these principles, stressing the significance of being a good team player, treating everyone with respect, and maintaining a level head even in high-pressure situations. Rumelhart believes that teamwork and collaboration are essential for providing excellent patient care and achieving satisfaction in one's career.

Mentorship has played a significant role in Rumelhart’s career. He fondly remembers the guidance of Denis Oliver, PhD, and Janet Steenlage, who were positive influences during his training. This mentorship has shaped his own approach to guiding learners, emphasizing the importance of “not sweating the small stuff, staying organized, and looking at the big picture," he says.

Throughout his career, Rumelhart has embraced challenges and opportunities, including contributing to peer-reviewed journals and performing a variety of medical procedures. His advice to current students and recent graduates is to "jump in the pool and splash around," encouraging them to embrace every learning opportunity and not shy away from new experiences.

Rumelhart’s commitment to medicine and his alma mater is evident in his ongoing contributions. This spirit of giving back reflects his deep appreciation for the education and opportunities he received.

"It's a really worthy program, and I'm proud to be a graduate," he says. 

As Rumelhart contemplates retirement, his legacy as a dedicated PA and a respected mentor remains strong. His journey through medicine, marked by continuous learning and patient-centered care, serves as an inspiration to all current and future students of the UI PA program.

Credit to Marc Doobay, MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA, for authoring the original story.