B. Austin Hettinger, PA-C

Austin earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Albany, NY, before going on to complete his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY.

Prior to PA school, he worked as a Trauma Technician in the Emergency Room in Binghamton, NY, where he gained valuable hands-on patient care experience. During that time, he shadowed an Orthopedic PA, which sparked his interest in the specialty and set the course for his career.

After graduation, Austin joined EmergeOrtho and spent two years in surgical orthopedics under a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with expertise in shoulder procedures and general orthopedics. In this role, he assisted in total joint replacements, open reduction internal fixations (ORIFs), and arthroscopic surgeries. In early 2024, he transitioned to orthopedic urgent care, expanding his practice to include the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of acute musculoskeletal conditions.

A native of Endicott, NY, Austin grew up playing youth football and baseball before becoming a year-round competitive swimmer, specializing in butterfly and distance events. He also enjoys golfing as a hobby. His lifelong passion for health and wellness extends beyond the clinic—he enjoys spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, swimming and relaxing at the beach. Most of all, he values time with his wife and daughter. A frequent visitor to the Outer Banks, Austin is excited to bring his skills, dedication, and experience to patients in North Carolina.