College of Idaho DMSc Student Publishes First Peer-Reviewed Research Article

The College of Idaho is proud to celebrate the academic achievement of Mary King, MSPAS, MPH, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry, a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) candidate in the College’s PA Fellowship track, whose first peer-reviewed research article has been published in Clinical and Translational Neuroscience.

King co-authored the narrative review, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Sport-Related Concussion in Athletes: Implications for Risk, Assessment, and Recovery, which examines the relationship between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sport-related concussion (SRC) in athletes. The review synthesizes current research on concussion risk, symptom presentation, diagnostic challenges, and recovery, emphasizing the importance of individualized, multidisciplinary care for athletes with ADHD.

Drawing from both her clinical experience as a physician assistant and her background as a former collegiate athlete, King explored how evidence-based approaches can improve concussion assessment and recovery while identifying opportunities for future research.

“This is my first published piece of research, and I couldn’t be more excited,” King said. “Preparing the manuscript strengthened my ability to critically evaluate scientific literature, identify evidence gaps, and effectively communicate research findings to diverse audiences. I also had the opportunity to present these findings at a professional conference for athletic trainers.”

King credits her experience in The College of Idaho’s Doctor of Medical Science program with helping prepare her for the publication process.

“The DMSc program materials were very helpful as I navigated the process,” she said. “I really enjoyed the experience because it directly aligned with concepts and applications I was learning in my doctoral coursework. This experience helped me move beyond understanding research to translating evidence into meaningful change across clinical, educational, and industry environments.”

The publication reflects the mission of The College of Idaho’s DMSc program to prepare physician assistants and healthcare professionals to become leaders in clinical practice, education, research, and healthcare innovation. Through rigorous coursework and scholarly opportunities, students develop the skills to critically evaluate evidence and apply research to improve patient outcomes.

King’s publication represents not only a personal milestone but also the growing impact of College of Idaho students who are contributing to the advancement of healthcare through scholarship and evidence-based practice.

Read the published article: https://doi.org/10.3390/ctn10020012