Breaking Barriers: COL(R) Pauline Gross, PA-C, on Transforming Military Medicine and Empowering Women
- wardocspodcast
- Aug 7
- 4 min read
Retired Army Colonel and Physician Assistant Pauline Gross shares her remarkable journey in military medicine, from her early days in the Women's Army Corps to becoming a trailblazer in the field. With a career spanning over 44 years, Pauline Gross offers invaluable insights into the evolution of women's health in the military and the critical role of leadership and mentorship in overcoming barriers.
Her Journey in Military Medicine and Women’s Empowerment
COL(R) Gross began her military career in the Women's Army Corps in 1974. She recounts her transition into the broader Army environment, highlighting the skepticism and limitations she faced early in her career. Through resilience and determination, she navigated a male-dominated military world, paving the way for aspiring female medical professionals. Her story underscores the importance of leadership and mentorship in breaking barriers and advancing the role of Physician Assistants (PAs) in military medicine.
Advancing Military Healthcare
COL(R) Gross’ journey from combat medic to Physician Assistant is nothing short of inspiring. Despite initial misconceptions and challenges, she persevered, supported by colleagues and mentors. Her deployments to Honduras and Korea exposed her to unique medical cases, enriching her experience and reinforcing the importance of sponsorship in career growth. Her efforts in improving healthcare access for female soldiers, particularly at Fort Bliss, showcase her commitment to enhancing patient care through innovative approaches and collaboration.
Trailblazing Healthcare and Women's Leadership
A strong advocate for women's health services, COL(R) Gross emphasizes the significance of building professional relationships in a medical setting. Her involvement with various committees and her dedication to networking and advocacy have led to improved medical services and patient outcomes. Her story illustrates how teamwork and perseverance can overcome obstacles in a traditionally male-dominated environment.
Overcoming Barriers in a Male-Dominated Military World
Throughout her career, COL(R) Gross faced challenges and skepticism, particularly regarding the capabilities of female PAs. Her determination to change perceptions and push boundaries led to significant advancements in the PA profession, including their recognition as key figures in military medicine. Her experiences highlight the importance of standing up for oneself, embracing mentorship, and challenging limitations imposed by rank or gender.
Lessons in Resilience and Advocacy in Healthcare
COL(R) Gross’ journey is a testament to the power of resilience and advocacy. Her involvement with the Quilts of Valor Foundation, honoring military personnel and veterans, reflects her commitment to service and community. Her legacy in military medicine is one of dedication, resourcefulness, and an unwavering willingness to help others. She offers inspiring advice for aspiring medical professionals, emphasizing the value of maintaining clinical skills, challenging limitations, and pursuing one's goals with confidence and resilience.
HOW TO LISTEN AND WATCH
The episode featuring COL(R) Gross is available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. Here are some popular links that will bring you directly to the episode:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/zOGZtOnFkNw
COL(R) Gross Biography
Colonel Pauline Gross joined the Army in the 1970s as part of the Women’s Army Corps, completing Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson, SC. She trained as a Combat Medic (91B) and Operating Room Technician (91D) before being selected for the Army Physician Assistant (PA) Program at Fort Sam Houston in 1982, one of only two women in her class. Despite limited PA roles for women at the time, she excelled, graduating in 1984 and earning promotions from Warrant Officer 1 to Chief Warrant Officer 2. In 1992, as the Army transitioned PA warrant officers to commissioned officers, she was promoted to Captain. Gross served in diverse roles, including Staff PA, Clinic Officer in Charge, Phase 2 Clinical Coordinator/Instructor for the Military PA Program, Senior Battalion PA, PA Program Manager at US Army Recruiting Command (USAREC), and Career Manager/Assignments Officer at Human Resources Command. She broke barriers as the first female PA deployed to Palmerola Air Force Base, Honduras, in 1986, and the first PA to serve as Clinic Officer in Charge in South Korea in 1997. At USAREC, she facilitated the inclusion of US Army Reserve Soldiers in the Interservice PA Program. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, her assignment at Human Resources Command extended to four and a half years, leading to her promotion to Lieutenant Colonel. Later, Gross served at the Office of the Surgeon General, supporting soldiers across all Army components. As Branch Chief, she oversaw the hiring of civilian PA instructors and expanded clinical training sites. In 2015, she became the Installation Management Command Surgeon, advising the IMCOM Commander. Her trailblazing career, marked by leadership and innovation, significantly advanced opportunities for women and PAs in the Army.
Honoring the Legacy and Preserving the History of Military Medicine
The WarDocs Mission is to honor the legacy, preserve the oral history, and showcase career opportunities, unique expeditionary experiences, and achievements of Military Medicine. We foster patriotism and pride in Who we are, What we do, and, most importantly, How we serve Our Patients, the DoD, and Our Nation.
Find out more and join Team WarDocs at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/
Check our list of previous guest episodes at https://www.wardocspodcast.com/our-guests
Listen to the “What We Are For” Episode 47. https://bit.ly/3r87Afm
WarDocs- The Military Medicine Podcast is a Non-Profit, Tax-exempt-501(c)(3) veteran-run organization supported by volunteers. All donations are tax-deductible and go to honoring and preserving the history, experiences, successes, and lessons learned in Military Medicine. A tax receipt will be sent to you.
Make a Tax-Deductible Donation to Support WarDocs
WARDOCS documents the experiences, contributions, and innovations of all military medicine Services, ranks, and Corps who are affectionately called "Docs" as a sign of respect, trust, and confidence on and off the battlefield, demonstrating dedication to the medical care of fellow comrades in arms.
Follow Us on Social Media
Twitter: @wardocspodcast
Facebook: WarDocs Podcast
Instagram: @wardocspodcast
LinkedIn: WarDocs-The Military Medicine Podcast
WarDocs on YouTube
We Are WarDocs: https://youtu.be/IOC3sCNF9RI?si=NGNwguReefbVMgPW
Comments