Sarah Bolander DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA
Sarah Bolander started caring for patients at Cactus Pediatric Orthopaedics in 2008. She is also faculty in the Physician Assistant program at Northern Arizona University and adjunct faculty in the University of Lynchburg Doctor of Medical Science program. Sarah lectures nationally on pediatric orthopaedic topics and has published on several musculoskeletal conditions.
In 2026, Sarah was recognized as one of America’s Top PAs by the Point of Care Network. She is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Physician Associates (DFAAPA). Sarah is actively involved in PA leadership, mentorship, and continuing education, serving as Chair of the American Academy of Physician Associates Commission on Continuing Professional Development and Education and Co-Chair of the PAs in Orthopedic Surgery National Conference. She has also represented Arizona in the AAPA House of Delegates and is a past president of the Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants.
Professional Memberships
- American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)
- Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants (ASAPA)
- Physician Assistants in Orthopaedic Surgery (PAOS)
- Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA)
Certifications/Licensures
Certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, 2007 – present
Licensed by the Arizona Regulatory Board of Physician Assistants, 2007 – present
Education
Doctor of Medical Science, University of Lynchburg, 2020
Master of Medical Science in PA Studies, Midwestern University, 2007
Master of Science in Recreation Management, Arizona State University, 2005
Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science, BYU–Hawaii, 2003
Awards and Honors
2026 – America’s Top PA, Point of Care Network (POCN)
2026 – Scholar of the Year, NAU College of Health and Human Services
- 2025 – Pi Alpha Honor Society, PAEA
- 2024, 2018 – Best Article by a PA Award, JBJS Journal of Orthopaedics for PAs (JOPA)
2019 – Distinguished Fellow, AAPA (DFAAPA)
