Education
COM: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM)
Residency Program: FM at Oklahoma State University
Where do you currently practice, and what is the setting and population you serve?
I practice predominantly emergency medicine in a variety of settings. I work in three different states and cover community access hospitals to trauma centers in suburban/urban regions.
Why did you choose family medicine?
The flexibility. It is a field where you can be a jack of all trades and master of whatever you want. I'm enjoying my time in the emergency department, but look forward to other opportunities and the flexibility to move into different areas/roles as my life evolves.
What is a typical day like in your life as a new physician in practice?
Emergency medicine is mostly shift work, so I will work an average of 8-16 shifts per month that range in 8-hour to 12-hour shifts.
Are you currently involved in national ACOFP on a committee or volunteer role?
I currently serve as The Society of Military Family Medicine Chapter of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (Military-ACOFP) president and also an active member on the New Physicians Committee.
I've been heavily involved since my first year of medical school and have served as a Student Chapter President, Student Governor to the Board of Governors, resident liaison to the ACGME Milestones Committee, and a member of the ACOFP's Health and Wellness Committee. Each position opened my eyes to numerous issues and allowed me at the time to evolve as a leader. I was surrounded by numerous highly distinguished physicians that role modeled success and leadership in different ways. I was able to practice public speaking, draft official documents, and learn how to contribute positively in a variety of settings.
What is your advice to residents?
Embrace! Embrace peers you spend some of the longest days and nights with, the attendings you will learn invaluable academic and life lessons from, and the last season you'll have in a truly academic role as a learner before you go out on your own.
If you could meet one famous dead person, who would it be?
Winston Churchill
What would you title an autobiography or memoir?
Perseverance
This growing community supports osteopathic family medicine physicians, residents, and students with military service in any branch—active duty, reserve, or guard—while working to shape the future of military family medicine!
