Education and Training

Leighton Parkins is a certified Physician Assistant with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and advancing medical education. With a career spanning clinical practice, research, and academia, Leighton combines hands-on experience with a passion for mentoring future healthcare professionals.

Leighton earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Psychology from St. Thomas University, followed by a Master of Science in Forensic Science from Florida International University. He later completed the Physician Assistant Program with Honors at Miami Dade College, solidifying his foundation in medical practice and patient care.

Teaching Interests

Currently serving as Full-Time Faculty and Professor in the Physician Assistant Program at Larkin University, Leighton plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of PAs. His responsibilities include advising students, managing course compliance with ARC-PA accreditation standards, and leading testing and remediation efforts to maintain the exceptional standards of Larkin University. His dedication to academic excellence and student success reflects his commitment to the profession.

In addition to his academic role, Leighton has been a practicing clinician in the Pediatric/Family/Urgent Care setting since 2020, where he provides comprehensive medical care services to diverse patient populations. He also brings five years of clinical research experience, contributing to studies focused on improving patient outcomes and advancing evidence-based practices in primary and urgent care settings. This research background enhances his ability to integrate scientific rigor into both clinical and educational environments.

Leighton’s career is driven by a passion for lifelong learning, professional growth, and improving healthcare outcomes. His expertise spans patient care, medical education, clinical research, and program development, making him a respected leader in the Physician Assistant community.