Paul Harrelson, MPAS, PA-C
CEO | Physician Assistant Certified
As CEO and Physician Assistant Certified (PA-C) at Clarus Surgery, Paul Harrelson works alongside Dr. John Porterfield to deliver exceptional, patient-centered surgical care. With a career that bridges clinical practice and medical education, Paul brings decades of expertise and leadership to the Clarus Surgery team.
Paul’s calm, knowledgeable presence in the operating room and commitment to compassionate care embody Clarus Surgery’s dedication to precision and patient trust.
Background & Expertise
Paul began his medical career as a registered nurse in the operating room in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, before advancing to become a Physician Assistant. His deep understanding of surgical procedures and patient care led him to a successful tenure in academia, where he served as the founding Chair and Program Director of the Samford University Physician Assistant Program. After retiring from higher education in 2025, Paul returned to clinical practice—bringing his extensive experience and mentorship back to patient care.
Approach to Care
Paul’s approach to patient care is rooted in empathy, education, and precision. He believes the best outcomes begin with trust—between both patients and the surgical team. Drawing from years of clinical and teaching experience, he takes time to explain procedures, answer questions, and ensure each patient feels informed and supported. By combining advanced surgical expertise with genuine compassion, Paul embodies Clarus Surgery’s mission to deliver clarity and confidence in every step of care.
Beyond the Practice
Outside of his clinical work, Paul enjoys life on his farm, where he maintains several beehives as a dedicated apiarist. He finds balance in nature, tending to his bees and dreaming of one day traveling to New Zealand to fly fish.
