2026 Humanitarian Service Award Recipient is Committed to Serving Underserved Communities in Rural Alaska

Jamie Lytton is dedicated to serving underserved populations and addressing public health crises 

May 14, 2026

By Alex Morse

Jamie Lytton, DMSc, PA-C, is a published author, educator, healthcare policy advocate, and Air Force veteran. Through leadership and community engagement, Lytton works to address some of Alaska’s most pressing healthcare challenges, and is the recipient of AAPA’s 2026 Humanitarian Service Award 

The Humanitarian Service award recognizes a PA or group of PAs that demonstrates clear, lasting dedication to expanding access to care for vulnerable and underserved populations, and/or populations in crisis.  

As president of the Alaska Academy of PAs, Lytton focuses on fostering a strong, engaged physician associate community and advocating for the future of the profession. “I value advancing the PA profession through advocacy, collaboration, and continuous learning,” she said.  

Lytton’s advocacy work is matched by direct community action, particularly in addressing Alaska’s growing opioid crisis. In response to rising fentanyl overdose deaths, Lytton led a 12-member team in partnership with Project HOPE to create 1,200 Narcan kits, which contributed to saving over 300 lives. According to Lytton, two individuals specifically credited kits from their distribution site with saving a neighbor and a family member. 

In addition to responding to the opioid crisis, Lytton has worked to improve access to healthcare services for Alaskans who face persistent barriers to care. She is a volunteer with Remote Area Medical, a nonprofit provider of mobile medical clinics delivering free dental, vision, and medical care to under-served and uninsured individuals in Alaska.  Lytton contributed to or supported screenings for more than 700 uninsured Alaskans. 

“PAs are highly trained, compassionate providers who play a vital role in delivering accessible, high-quality healthcare,” Lytton said. “At the heart of our profession is a dedication to meeting patients where they are and helping them achieve better health outcomes.” 

As Chair of the Associate Board of Ambassadors for the American Cancer Society of Alaska, Lytton has played a key role in advancing cancer awareness and support across Alaska. Through coordinated events and sponsorship initiatives, she has helped raise more than $100,000 for cancer patients.  

During her two terms as Mrs. Alaska America, she organized mammogram outreach events, collaborated on breast cancer awareness campaigns to promote education and screening guidelines, and conducted public service announcements on statewide radio stations reaching approximately 60,000 listeners. 

Lytton’s volunteer leadership also extends to military and civic service. She serves on the Serve Alaska Board, supporting AmeriCorps programs in rural and urban communities, ensuring funding reaches vulnerable youth and families. Through Young Lives Alaska, she mentored teen mothers and supported programming for more than 400 families in multiple communities. And as a Key Spouse Mentor, she supported over 265 Airmen and organized morale-building events for military families.  

“I believe that when you love what you do, you never work a day in your life,” Lytton said. “I have had the best time helping people achieve functional levels they never thought possible. Faith, hope, and love are the building blocks of healing, and joining my patients on that journey is both a privilege and a joy.” 

Alex Morse is AAPA’s Communications Manager. She can be reached at [email protected].