David Knechtel serves as clinical coordinator of physician assistant studies. He is a pulmonary physician assistant with Pulmonary Associates of East Tennessee, with previous experience in Family Practice and Internal Medicine. Knechtel obtained a Doctorate of Medical Science (DMSc) and a certificate in Healthcare Administration from the University of Lynchburg. He also earned a Master of Physician Assistant Studies and a Bachelor of Science in health science from Duquesne University. He is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Tennessee Academy of Physician Assistants. In addition, Knechtel is an elder at Covenant Presbyterian Church, and he has served on local committees for a number of years to raise money for children’s charities.
In July 2022, Knechtel was recognized among the region’s top 25 “Healthcare Heroes” by The Business Journal of the Tri-Cities TN/VA.