Tony Adkins

Maurice Tony Adkins, MPH, PA-C, MCHS, is a certified physician assistant specializing in pediatric neurosurgery at Children's Hospital of Orange County in California. Adkins, often referred to as the Dancing PA, incorporates dancing into his patient visits to help boost morale and reduce stress for pediatric neurosurgery patients. His approach to patient care has gained attention for its impact on children facing serious health conditions.

Adkins grew up in South Central Los Angeles, where he witnessed many peers and family members become involved with gangs and legal troubles. Seeking a different path, he enlisted in the Army after high school and served for nine years. Adkins credits his military experience with instilling a commitment to service and perseverance. He earned a bachelor's degree in neurosciences and a master's degree from Loma Linda University in global health and epidemiology, followed by a master's degree from the University of Washington in health sciences to become a physician assistant. After completing his education, Adkins worked as an orthopedic spine physician assistant with adult patients before transitioning to his current role in pediatric neurosurgery.

The Dancing Doc phenomenon began when Adkins danced for a young patient to lift his spirits, an act that was recorded and shared on social media. The video gained widespread attention, highlighting the positive effects of music and movement for children with neurological conditions. Adkins has stated that celebrating patients through song and dance brings them joy and helps distract from their illnesses. His work has been featured in media outlets such as Good Morning America, and he has built a significant social media following, using his platform to encourage healthcare providers to adopt creative approaches to patient care.

In addition to his clinical work, Adkins is a keynote speaker on topics including diversity and inclusion, health and wellness, overcoming adversity, veterans' issues, and neuroscience. He shares his personal story of using dance as a positive outlet during challenging times, emphasizing the importance of positivity and joy in medicine and life. Adkins also mentors residents and students, contributing to the professional development of future healthcare providers.