Federation Continues Rural Medicine Commitment

By Maggie Gaddy

The Alabama Farmers Federation continued its investment in rural health care Aug. 19, supporting the 21st cohort of the Auburn University Rural Medicine Program (RMP).

For more than two decades, the Federation has helped equip emerging physicians whose careers could ultimately strengthen rural communities. This year, nine students received book scholarships from the Federation during the program's annual white coat ceremony in Auburn.

Federation External Affairs Department Director Brian Hardin congratulated students on reaching this important milestone as they begin their journey to becoming physicians.

"As students aspiring to serve in rural medicine, you are helping advance the Federation's mission by lending your talents and training to underserved areas of Alabama," said Hardin, whose son-in-law is an RMP graduate. "Yours is a higher calling - not merely to gain knowledge or achieve professional success but to bring healing and hope to our fellow citizens. I know this firsthand having grown up in a rural county."

RMP prepares students with rural backgrounds and interests for careers serving communities where access to health care is often limited. The program is a partnership between Auburn University's College of Sciences and Mathematics and UAB's Heersink School of Medicine.

During the event, students received stethoscopes, white coats and scholarships.

RMP Medical Co-Director Dr. Ashley Lane said the symbols carry an additional meaning.

"They represent a commitment to listen to, care for and serve rural communities across Alabama," Lane said. "These are communities where a dedicated physician can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of individuals, families and generations to come."

Members of the 21st Rural Medicine Program cohort are:

• Tyler Allen, Talladega
• Morgan Atkins, Jasper
• Will Caneer, Arab
• Jack Day, Andalusia
• Jordan Fluker, Pell City
• Mimi Lunsford, Cullman
• Kristen Marshall, New Market
• Sawyer Waldrep, Valley
• Annie Wingate, Eufaula