The Mississippi Family Physician Volume 58 Winter 2025
James Ervin, MD, FAAFP PRESIDENT
Walter Burnett, MD, FAAFP PRESIDENT-ELECT
Bruce Longest, MD, FAAFP VICE PRESIDENT
Chrystal Sumrall, MD, FAAFP SECRETARY
Emily Landrum, MD, FAAFP TREASURER
John Vanderloo, MD, FAAFP IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
Jennifer Gholson, MD AAFP DELEGATE
Lucius Lampton, MD, FAAFP AAFP DELEGATE
Dustin Gentry, MD, MBA, FAAFP ALTERNATE DELEGATE
Katherine Royals, MD ALTERNATE DELEGATE
DIRECTORS
Rickey Chance, DO, FAAFP - District 1
Steven Burkett, DO, FAAFP - District 2
Anna Marie Hailey Sharp, MD - District 3
Anthony Cloy, MD - District 4
Anuj Marya, MD, FAAFP - District 5
Eric Wilkerson II, MD - District 6
Kristie Alvarez, MD - District 7
Christopher Park, DO - District 8
Patrick Whipple, MD, FAAFP - At-Large
Jonathan Buchanan, MD, FAAFP - At-Large
Taylor Ladner, MD - Resident Member
Madison Bellais - Student Member
Onaola Adedeji,MD - Alt. Resident Member
Tyler Holland - Alt. Student Member STAFF
Beth Embry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR beth@msafp.org
Blake Butler
PUBLIC AWARENESS DIRECTOR publicawareness@msafp.org
Beth Wilson
FOUNDATION AND WORKFORCE DIRECTOR foundation@msafp.org
Hope Ladner
ADVOCACY DIRECTOR hope@clayfirm.com
THE MISSISSIPPI FAMILY PHYSICIAN
MAFP Board of Directors 2025-26
Rickey Chance, DO Biloxi
Steven Burkett, DO Ovett
Anna Marie Sharp, MD
Wilkerson, MD Greenville
Director District 7
Kristie Alvarez, MD Batesville
Director District 8
Christopher Park, DO Pontotoc
Director At Large
Jonathan Buchanan, MD Carthage Director
Patrick Whipple, MD Madison
Taylor Ladner, MD Jackson
Onaola Adedeji, MD Meridian
2025 –2026 MAFP Leaders Elected
MAFP’s leadership for 2025-26 (pictured, facing page) was elected by the membership at the Annual Business Session in 2025.
Academy Officers
MAFP’s top officers for 20252026 elected at the Annual Meeting in July 2024 to serve 1year terms include:
President: James W. Ervin, MD, FAAFP, Family Med Clinic, Crystal Springs
President-Elect: Walter Burnett, MD, FAAFP, Baptist Primary Care Clinic, Yazoo City
Vice President: Bruce Longest, MD, FAAFP, Bruce Family Medical Center, Bruce
Secretary: Chrystal A. Sumrall, MD, FAAFP, Laurel Family & Immediate Care, Laurel
Treasurer: Emily Landrum, MD, FAAFP, The Family Clinic of Starkville, Starkville
Immediate Past Pres: John Vanderloo, MD, FAAFP, Vanderloo Family Medicine, Madison Delegates, Alternates
In addition to the officers, rounding out the MAFP Executive Committee are the 2025-26 AAFP Delegates and Alternate
Delegates who serve 2-year terms:
Delegate: Jennifer Gholson, MD, Mississippi Department of Health, Jackson
Delegate: Lucius Lampton, MD, FAAFP, Beacham Memorial Hospital, Magnolia
Alternate: Katherine Royals, MD, Hattiesburg Clinic Orleans Park, Hattiesburg
Alternate: J. Dustin Gentry, MD, MBA, FAAFP, Winston Medical Clinic, Louisville
New District Directors
District Directors elected in July 2025 at the Annual Meeting to serve 2-year terms:
District 1: Rickey L. Chance, DO, FAAFP, Memorial Physician Clinics, Biloxi
District 2: Steven Burkett, DO, Hattiesburg Clinic Richton Family Medicine, Ovett (1 year term)
District 3: Anna Marie Sharp, MD, Rush Medical Clinic DeKalb, DeKalb
District 5: Anuj Marya, MD, FAAFP, St. Dominic Hospital, Flowood
District 7: Kristie Alvarez, MD, Alvarez Family Medical, Batesville Member at Large: Patrick Whipple, MD, FAAFP, MEA
Primary Care Plus Canton, Madison
Remaining District Directors
District Directors elected in July 2024 and serving terms that end in 2026 are:
District4: J. Anthony Cloy, MD, Mississippi Physician Health Program, Jackson
District6: Eric Wilkerson II, MD, Family Medicine Residency Clinic, Greenville
District 8: Christopher Park, DO, Park Medical Clinic, Pontotoc
Member At Large: Jonathan Buchanan, MD, FAAFP, Baptist Medical Clinic, Carthage
Resident and Student Members
Resident Member: Taylor Ladner, MD, Jackson
Resident Alternate: Onaola Adedeji, MD, Meridian
Student Member: Madison Bellais, Jackson
Student Alternate: Tyler Holland, Jackson
Family Medicine Physicians: Everyday Superheroes
Dr. James Ervin Elected MAFP President 2025-26
A proud native of Crystal Springs, Dr. James Ervin was installed as President of the MAFP at the annual meeting in July. Dr. Ervin earned his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in 1986 and completed his family medicine residency at the University of Alabama – DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa.
After practicing in Vicksburg and Amory, Dr. Ervin returned to his hometown of Crystal Springs in 1996 to become the initial physician in the Methodist Family Care Clinic. In 2004, Dr. Ervin and his wife, Joan, bought the practice and established Family Medical Clinic of Crystal Springs PLLC.
He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians (FAAFP) and is double board-certified in family medicine and obesity medicine. Dr. Ervin also holds certifications as a clinical bone densitometrist and a medical review officer.
“For 76 years, the MAFP has been a voice for family doctors, provided educational growth to hone their skills, and a community where we can share common ideas and challenges."
Dr. Vanderloo passes the gavel to new President Dr. Ervin.
Dr. Ervin’s family had these fun “Mr. President” shirts made especially for him to surprise him at the summer meeting!
On why he belongs to MAFP, he stated, “MAFP provides me the opportunity to spend time with other physicians who share the same goals and objectives that I have. Knowing that there are other physicians dedicated to maintaining and improving their skills while navigating the complexity of managing a medical practice gives me great encouragement”.
In his installation address at Annual Assembly, Dr. Ervin compared his fellow Mississippi Family Physicians to Marvel Superheroes. He sees family physicians as superheroes to their patients, communities, the MAFP, and to the entire House of Medicine.
"Our friends at Marvel have shown that superheroes can be even more effective when working together. But MAFP demonstrated this even before Marvel.”
When he’s not working, he is serving his community. Dr. Ervin is the current President of the Chautauqua Arts Foundation, Inc., Board Member of the Copiah Animal Shelter, Past President of the Crystal Springs Chamber of Commerce, and Past Board President of Copiah Educational Foundation. He enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, college athletics, and fishing in his free time.
Dr. Ervin is sworn in as MAFP President during the 2025 Annual Assembly.
Pictured with Dr. Ervin is his family L-R: Eric Ervin, Lindsey Ervin, Joan Ervin, Dr. Ervin and granddaughter Eliza, Dr. Savannah Stockton Ervin, and Will Ervin.
MAFP Attends AAFP National Conference
Six MAFP members represented Mississippi in Kansas City April 23-26 at the AAFP National Conference of Constituency Leaders (NCCL) and Annual Chapter Leaders Forum (ACLF). MAFP President John Vanderloo, MD, FAAFP, of Madison and MAFP Foundation & Workforce Director Beth Wilson attended the Leadership Conference.
Members of the NCCL delegation included:
• Kristi Alvarez, MD of Oxford - Representing Women Physicians
• Daniel Hogue, MD, FAAFP of SouthavenRepresenting LGBTQ and Allies
• Chloe Kilman, MD, FAAFP of JacksonRepresenting New Physicians (Up to 7 Years Out of Residency)
• Anuj Marya, MD, FAAFP of Jackson - Representing IMG Graduates
• Chad Ross, MD of Southaven - Representing Minorities
The group attended a welcome reception Thursday night with leadership and caucus sessions Thursday, Friday, and Saturday with family physicians from around the country.
As a first time attendee, Dr. Chloe Kilman shared about the conference. “I loved meeting other family medicine doctors from other places and sharing our experiences. It was cool seeing the delegates enact change from the ground up. I had no idea how that worked before. I thought it was a very valuable experience ”
Dr. Kristi Alvarez spoke on her experience at NCCL "Prior to this conference I had no idea the work that was put into place for change to take place. This was an amazing opportunity to learn, absorb, and work together to write resolutions from the heart that can make a difference in our lives and our patients’ lives!"
This is a great opportunity to understand how AAFP policies are created and how we can work together to ensure that all family physicians have their voices heard. The MAFP is looking for representatives to attend the 2026 Conference. Please contact Beth Wilson at foundation@msafp.org. The dates for the 2026
Do you want to represent MAFP at the 2026 AAFP NCCL in Kansas City, Missouri?
2026 Conference Dates: April 23—25, 2026
Beth Wilson at
Our MS delegation with AAFP Board Member Dr. Brent Smith and AAFP President Dr. Jen Brull.
Our delegation enjoyed networking at dinner during the conference.
Pictured L-R: Drs. Chad Ross, John Vanderloo, Kristi Alvarez, Chloe Kilman, Daniel Hogue, and Anuj Marya. We love the MAFP swag!
Dr. Vanderloo and Dr. Marya discuss the sessions.
MAFP Delegation meet to plan their day.
MAFP Leadership: Building A Strong Strategic Vision
Beth Embry
MAFP Executive Director
The MAFP is fortunate to have a dedicated board and effective leaders. As a member, you can take pride in knowing that the MAFP board meets 4–5 times a year to support and promote the interests of Mississippi family doctors. The board is tasked with understanding its role and developing a strong strategic vision to strengthen member value and engagement.
As your Executive Director, I truly enjoy working with our board members because they genuinely care about the MAFP, our family physician members, and your patients. When I think of our leadership team and board, four qualities stand out:
· Passion – Committed to the MAFP, its mission, and its membership.
· Respect – Value others’ opinions and maintain professionalism, even in disagreement.
· Engagement – Attend meetings, come prepared, and follow through on commitments.
· Advocacy & Ambassadorship – Promote the MAFP, recruit members, and build relationships across the profession.
Every three years, the board and former presidents review and refine the MAFP Strategic Plan. This ensures a strong roadmap that began in 2011 when MAFP invested in professional strategic planning with Bob Harris of Harris Management Groups.
In December of 2024, our strategic planning team included students, residents, life members, new physicians, residency directors, direct primary care doctors, and large and small independent physician practices. This diverse group helped set the direction for 2025–2027 which can be found on page 11.
History and MAFP Data
Founded in 1949, the MAFP is an affiliated chapter of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). As a medium-size chapter (401–1,001 Active members), MAFP currently has 1,309 total members including:
· 577 Active members
· 164 Resident members
· 450 Student members
· 118 Life and Supporting members
The retention rate for Active members is 93.9%, and 66.7% of graduating Resident members convert to Active membership. MAFP Member Market share is 87.1%. First-year new physicians receive a 50% membership discount to encourage early engagement. MAFP annual dues are $325 with AAFP dues at $510. The AAFP bills and collects the dues for the state chapters.
The IRS designates MAFP as a 501(c)(6) trade association affiliated with the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians Foundation which is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Of course, MAFP events always include a little fun. During the December planning meeting, board members and spouses enjoyed d Capitol Inn in Jackson. Saturday morning began with games and icebreakers before the strategic planning session commenced.
MAFP Former Presidents pose for a photo.
Dr. Gholson is a winner!
The Whipples in their festive attire.
Members Recognized for Anniversaries
commemorative pin to proudly wear. We extend our deepest gratitude to each of you for your years of committed membership to MAFP. Your dedication has played an essential role in advancing family medicine in Mississippi. See page 13 for the full list of anniversaries
Being recognized for membership anniversaries by President Dr. John Vanderloo at our 2025 Annual Assembly Awards luncheon are: Drs. Anthony Cloy, Chrystal Sumrall, Katie Royals, Eddy del Rio, Susan Chiarito, Jennifer Gholson, Patrick Whipple, and William Jackson.
MAFP Celebrates Membership Anniversary Milestones
Elmo (Bo) Gabbert, MD, FAAFP
Walter Rose, MD, FAAFP
John Paul Lee, MD
Sidney A Chevis, MD, FAAFP
Charles D Guess, MD, FAAFP
William B Larkin Jr, MD, FAAFP
John Russell Barnes MD, FAAFP
Clifton C Cartwright MD
William G Jackson MD, FAAFP
David Son Joe MD, FAAFP
Hernando Cartes Payne MD, FAAFP
T Ray Perrine MD, FAAFP
Sidney Prosser MD, FAAFP
Troy R Cappleman, MD
David W Bell MD, FAAFP
Susan Ann Blanchard MD, FAAFP
Sandra F Burford, MD
Walter M Burnett MD, FAAFP
Lisa Clark Bushardt MD, FAAFP
William Wade Dowell, MD
Robert Lee Giffin, MD
Thomas Eric Hale, MD
Jack G Hudson MD, FAAFP
Randall T Huling Jr, MD, FAAFP
John Jeffrey Johnson, MD
Word M Johnston MD, FAAFP
John William Lewis, MD
Michael R O'Neal, MD
Jeffrey Neal Potter, MD
Richard C Randolph MD, FAAFP
Roger Hoyel Reed MD, FAAFP
Stephen Kirk Senter, MD
Richard Harold Smith, MD
Mary Anne Frank-Tarsi, MD
Willie Lee Wells, MD
William E Yoe MD, FAAF
Ralph Armstrong, MD
Susan Archer Chiarito, MD, FAAFP
James Anthony Cloy, MD
Joseph Danford, MD
Diana Lynn Entrekin, MD
Todd Fulcher, MD
Barbara B. Goodman, MD
Katherine E. Hankins, MD, FAAFP
John Coleman Jennings, MD
Warren Allen Jones, MD, FAAFP
Seth Ashley Scott, MD
Roderick Shields, MD
Crystal Lane Tate, MD
Howard Westbrook, MD
Thomas Blackledge, MD
Lara Jean Teal Clement, MD
Thomas Forks DO, FAAFP
Scott Hambleton, MD
Mike Steven Huber, MD
Kevin Koehler, MD
Donald Richard McGukin, MD
Joyce Olutade, MD, FAAFP
Chrystal A Sumrall, MD, FAAFP
Rochel Y Thornton-Walker, MD
James Keenan Wilson, MD
Erica Lynn Yates, MD
Raymond R Arriola, MD
Kimberly A Bibb, MD
Bruce Tinsley Black, MD
Christopher D Boston, MD
Krista L Boyette, MD
Jennifer J Bryan, MD
Anthony Lawrence Buckles, MD
Erin DeWitt, MD
Jennifer Dianne Gholson, MD
Gary Lamar Gibson, MD
Charles Randall Griffith, MD
Stephen Scott Hathcock, DO
Kevin R Johnson, DO
Scott Matthew Kelly, MD, FAAFP
Christopher Sean Reynolds, MD
Clifton Rodgers, MD, FAAFP
Rambod Rouhbakhsh, MD, MBA, FAAFP
Christopher L Shelby, MD
Tanya Renee Anderson, MD
Eddy Manuel del Rio, MD, FAAFP
Kimberly J Estes, MD, FAAFP
James Wallace Griffin Jr, MD
Reese Gibson Lindsey, DO
Jennifer Dawn Lowery, MD
Trinity Jack McKenzie MD
Andrea Means Morgan, MD
Bobby E Proctor, MD
Sonya Shipley MD, FAAFP
Harpal Singh, MD
Patrick Dale Whipple, MD, FAAFP
Brian D Williams, MD, MPH
Kevin M Young, MD
Kevin William Abel, MD
Edward Burris Eldred, DO
Hoyet A Hand, MD
William Thomas Jennings, MD
Jean Marie Miller, DO
Benita J Myles, MD
Katherine O'Neal Royals, MD
Kristi Kay Trimm, DO
James Lee Valentine, DO
Christopher Shane Blomberg, MD
William Kendrick Currie, MD
William Allen Martin, DO, FAAFP
Jessica Lynn Douglas, MD
Kimberly Diane Gabriel, MD
Gloria Alejandra Graham, MD
Hunter Haley, MD
Benjamin Lambert, MD
Brad A Murray, MD, BSN
Brandon Levi Mizell, MD
Charvi Patel, MD
Charles Douglas Pearson, MD
Jonathan Sappington, MD
Michael John Kwon-Qune YeungLai-Wah, MD
MAFP Reminds Legislators
“There’s No Place Like The SIP”
F
amily Physicians and pediatricians from across Mississippi gathered at the State Capitol on Tuesday, February 6, for Primary Care Day at the Capitol, a morning devoted to highlighting the importance of primary care.
T
he day began with registration in the Capitol rotunda where more than 70 attendees visited the MAFP booth, proudly wearing their “There’s No Place Like The Sip” buttons. Physicians met with legislators to emphasize the need for every Mississippian to have access to a family doctor and the importance of training and retaining those physicians here in our state.
Dr. John Vanderloo, Representative Bubba Carpenter, and Miss Mississippi, Becky Williams.
Representative Missy McGee visits with Dr. Brent Smith.
Pictured l to r: Miss Mississippi Becky Williams, Rep. Beth Waldo, and Drs. Jennifer Gholson, Chrystal Sumrall, James Ervin, and John Vanderloo.
MAFP members shared information about the Academy with lawmakers, and were then introduced in the Senate gallery. The group later gathered for lunch to hear from Representative Sam Creekmore, Chair of the House Public Health Committee who provided updates on key state health issues.
“Building these relationships truly makes a difference, “
MAFP Advocacy Director Hope Ladner
Partner organizations joining the event included:
• MAFP Foundation, promoting Smoke-Free Mississippi alongside special guest, Miss Mississippi Becky Williams who traveled statewide teaching 4th and 5th graders about the dangers of tobacco use.
• Seven Mississippi Family Medicine Residency Programs, bringing their residents to meet with legislators.
• Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program, showcasing its success in training and placing more than 75 new primary care physicians in rural communities since its creation in 2007.
• American Academy of Pediatrics Mississippi Chapter, with pediatrician members joining to advocate for children’s health.
• Office of Mississippi Physician Workforce, highlighting its effort in moving Mississippi’s ranking for primary care physicians per 100,000 residents from 50th to 44th, now has a total of 26 unique programs outside of UMMC, housed at 17 training sites, and hosting 202 first-year training positions.
Drs. Crystal Sumrall and Jennifer Gholson pose with Representative Sam Creekmore.
Senator Mike McLendon visits with Dr. Ervin.
Mississippi Family Medicine Physicians attended the 157th Annual Session of the Mississippi State Medical Association House of Delegates. This session brings together physicians from across the state to discuss critical issues facing the medical community. Family Medicine physicians caucused on Saturday August 9th during the annual session. MAFP submitted resolutions all of which address direct patient care or the administrative burden to Physicians and were passed with the intent to be taken to the AMA as well as action items within the state.
Resolutions introduced by MAFP during the MSMA Annual Session
Subject: Eliminating Prescription Drug Adherence (PDA) as a quality metric tied to physician ratings or compensation
RESOLVED, that the American Medical Association advocate against the use of patient Prescription Drug Adherence (PDA) as a quality metric tied in any manner to physician ratings or compensation.
Subject: Prohibiting denial of otherwise-covered medications prescribed by out of network (OON) physicians
RESOLVED, that the American Medical Association advocate against health insurance plans from denying coverage of prescription drugs strictly because the prescribing physician was out of network - with emphasis on traditional and managed Medicare plans.
Subject: Preventing hospital-based 340B programs from unfairly competing with independent physicians RESOLVED, that the American Medical Association advocate for the patients of any physician practicing in the same county (or equivalent region) that contains a covered 340B entity to receive reduced cost medications under the 340b program through the covered entity’s contracted pharmacy.
Subject: Advocating against automatic refill requests
RESOLVED, that the American Medical Association communicate effectively with large pharmacy chains and conglomerates for the purpose of explaining the unnecessary administrative burden of automatic, non-patient-initiated refill requests and petitioning them to require all medication refill requests to be patient-initiated.
RESOLVED, that the American Medical Association petition the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to restrict participating pharmacies from sending medication refill requests to physicians unless they are patient-initiated.
Subject: Changing the Mississippi Medical License duration to 2 years with commensurate increase in fee RESOLVED, that the Mississippi State Medical Association petition the Mississippi Board of Medical Licensure to adjust the duration of a medical license and frequency of renewal from 1 year to 2 years which would match the CME requirements in a budget neutral manner.
2025 Advocacy Overview
The 2025 Regular Session of the Mississippi Legislature convened on January 7 and quickly proved to be one of the most eventful in recent memory. Major developments included court-ordered redistricting, sweeping tax and retirement reforms, and most notably adjournment without passing a state budget. Meanwhile, three major health-policy issues dominated debate but ultimately saw limited resolution: independent practice authority for APRNs, Medicaid policy disputes, and efforts to reform pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs).
Redistricting: Court-Directed Revisions
A federal court ruling in 2024 found that Mississippi’s 2022 legislative maps violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, forcing lawmakers to adopt new House and Senate maps in 2025. These changes affected districts across northeast Mississippi, the Hattiesburg region, and DeSoto County, prompting numerous special elections.
In the House, the new map created one additional majorityminority district (District 22). Five incumbents ran for reelection; all won except Jonathan Lancaster (R), who was narrowly defeated by Democrat Justin Crosby. The Senate map produced new lines in both Hattiesburg-area districts and parts of DeSoto County, with several incumbents shifting districts or retiring. The redrawn District 45 now majority-minority was won by former Hattiesburg mayor Johnny DuPree (D). Other affected incumbents largely retained their seats, with the exception of Senator Robin Robinson, who lost in the primary.
Additional special elections throughout 2025 filled vacancies created by retirements, deaths, and municipal races. Notable among these were Lane Taylor’s (R) win to replace Jenifer Branning in Senate District 18 and Otha E. Williams’ election to the House. Two Senate seats will be decided in December runoffs.
Tax Reform: Continued Move Toward Eliminating Income Tax
The Legislature’s primary tax package, HB 1, enacted significant changes to sales, excise, and income taxes. The grocery sales tax drops from 7% to 5%, with increased distributions to local governments to cushion revenue losses. The bill also includes a phasedin nine-cent increase to the gasoline excise tax over three years, tied to future indexing.
HB 1 continues Mississippi’s long-term effort to eliminate the state personal income tax. After the current rate drops to 4% in 2026, HB 1 schedules annual reductions beginning in 2027, eventually targeting full elimination if fiscal stability thresholds are met.
continued on page 18.
During the MSMA meeting, two MAFP members received awards.
Dr. Craig Moffett was the recipient of the prestigious James C. Waites Leadership Award. This honor recognizes a physician under the age of 50 who exemplifies outstanding leadership in organized medicine and makes a lasting impact in the community.
Dr. Ardarian Gilliam-Pierre (below) was this year’s Excellence in Health Promotion Award recipient. This honor recognizes her outstanding commitment to advancing health and wellness through leadership, advocacy, and community engagement.
Hope Ladner
MAFP Advocacy Director
Public Employee Retirement Reform
HB 1 also made significant changes to the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). Beginning in 2026, newly elected legislators and new state employees (excluding Highway Safety Patrol) will join a Tier 5 hybrid plan, combining definedbenefit and defined-contribution elements. The goal: slow growth of the system’ s unfunded liability. Higher education employee contributions under the Optional Retirement Plan will also be adjusted to help stabilize funding.
Budget Standoff and Special Session
In an unprecedented move, the Legislature adjourned without passing a budget after negotiation deadlines passed during “conference weekend.” The situation required a special session on May 28 during which lawmakers passed more than 100 appropriations bills. The result was a $7.135 billion general budget for FY 2026, with total state support reaching $7.861 billion. Unlike previous years, no local projects received funding due to disagreement between chambers.
Independent Practice Debate
Scope of practice particularly independent practice for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) was one of the session’s most contentious health policy issues. The House passed HB 849 allowing independent practice for APRNs meeting specified hour thresholds. However, the chamber added an unusual “trigger” requiring the state to fully fund at least 100 Rural Physicians Scholarship Program slots before the bill could take effect.
While scholarship expansion is a shared goal, tying it to independent practice raised concerns regarding physician workforce development. Mississippi has invested heavily in increasing graduate medical education and rural placement pipelines, producing more than 60 rural physician scholarship graduates and 20 new residency programs. Medical leaders argued that APRN independence could undermine these efforts and dilute patient safety standards.
HB 849 ultimately died in the Senate Public Health Committee though the strong push from advocates ensures the issue will return.
Medicaid Policy and Program Disputes
After last year’s last-minute failure of Medicaid expansion, 2025 again brought speculation that expansion might re-emerge. Both chambers passed placeholder bills, but no comprehensive expansion measure advanced.
The main Medicaid bill SB 2867 aimed to make several technical revisions but included two contentious provisions: opening the Medicare Upper Payment Limits Program to all hospitals and freezing Medicaid’s supplemental payment distribution methodology. Citing these provisions, the Governor vetoed the bill.
Lawmakers attempted a workaround by inserting most of SB 2867’s language into a separate bill (SB 2386) but again left the payment-methodology freeze intact. The Governor vetoed the second attempt as well, leaving Medicaid reform unresolved for another year.
PBM Transparency Efforts Falter
Efforts to reform and increase transparency in the pharmacy benefit manager system gained momentum early. HB 1123 sought to prohibit pricing practices unfavorable to pharmacies and implement new reporting requirements on rebates and pharmacy affiliations. While lawmakers appeared aligned on improving fairness for independent pharmacists, a procedural point of order killed the bill on the final floor stage.
Looking Ahead
With major financial reforms enacted and several major health-related debates left unresolved, the 2025 Session set the stage for continued policy battles in 2026. As budget pressures, workforce issues, and healthcare access remain at the forefront, active engagement from medical professionals will be essential. Mark your calendars now for MAFP Capitol Day 2026 scheduled for February 3. Share your experiences, stay involved, and help ensure Mississippi’s family physicians remain a leading voice for patientcentered, solutions-focused policy.
MAFP Collaborates with Neighboring States
Each year one of the twelve southeastern states hosts the Southeastern Family Medicine Forum. The 2025 SEFM took place August 14 - 16 in Charleston, SC, where attendees strengthened relationships with colleagues, collaborated on key issues, and learned best practices to bring back to their home states. Your MAFP leaders, MAFP President Dr. James Ervin and MAFP President-Elect Dr. Walter Burnett shared resolutions, joined discussions on legislative issues, and networked at social events. Beth Embry, MAFP Executive Director, joined the delegation and participated in sessions with We thank the South Carolina Academy for hosting a wonderful event.
MAFP Dines with Representatives from the Tennessee Academy of Family Physicians.
Dinner in Charleston pictured l to r: Dr. James Ervin, Joan Ervin, Beth Embry, Dr. Walter Burnett, and Marilyn Burnett.
Dr. Burnett and Dr. Ervin twinning at SEFM.
Dr. Burnett, Beth Embry, and Dr. Ervin pose for a photo at SEFM.
FamDocPAC Continues To Grow
The PAC is governed by a Board of Trustees consisting of nine members, including:
Chair– Dr. Katherine Royals, Hattiesburg
Vice Chair– Dr. Sue Simmons, Maben
Secretary/Treasurer – Beth Embry, MAFP Executive Director
Congressional District 1 – Dr. Craig Moffett, Maben
Congressional District 2 – Dr. Brent Smith, Cleveland
Congressional District 3 – Dr. Dustin Gentry, Louisville
Congressional District 4 – Dr. Jeremy Wells, Hattiesburg
At-Large Trustee 1 – Dr. Scott Carlton, Brandon
At-Large Trustee 2 – Dr. James Griffin, Hattiesburg
Ex-Officio – Dr. James Ervin, Crystal Springs
Ex-Officio – Dr. Jennifer Gholson, Summit
2025 PAC Donors
Rotunda Level
Scott Carlton, MD
Anthony Cloy, MD
James Ervin, MD
Anuj Marya, MD
Brent Smith, MD
Chamber Level
Walter Burnett, MD
Rickey Chance, DO
Susan Chiarito, MD
Dustin Gentry, MD
Lee Giffin, MD
James Griffin, MD
Luke Lampton, MD
Bruce Longest, MD
Craig Moffett, DO
Paul Pavlov, MD
Hannah Ray, MD
Katherine Royals, MD
Sue Simmons, MD
Kelly Tullos, MD
Jeremy Wells, MD
Patrick Whipple, MD
Gallery Level
Jennifer Gholson, MD
Anna Marie Sharp, MD
John Vanderloo, MD
Capitol Steps Level
Kristie Alvarez, MD
Steven Burkett, DO
Mona Castle, MD
Barbara Goodman, MD
Chrystal Sumrall, MD
Crystal Tate, MD
David Wheat, MD
Eric Wilkerson, MD
FamDocPAC is the political action committee founded by the MAFP to promote the effective citizenship of FamDocPAC members and associate members through the financial participation in the electoral process of the State of Mississippi, and to assist in the nomination and election of candidates for the Mississippi House of Representatives, the Mississippi Senate, and other Mississippi Statewide Elected Offices. Currently, our FamDocPAC balance totals $51,691. Scan the QR Code to make a contribution
Mississippi Delegation Active in Policy
The Congress of Delegates (COD) of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) met October 4 to 6, 2025, in Anaheim, California. The COD is the national house of leadership of the AAFP and meets annually to consider resolutions of importance to family physicians from around the country as well as to elect its Board of Trustees and other officers of the association, including President-Elect, Speaker, and Vice-Speaker. Mississippi’s delegation included Delegates Drs. Jennifer Gholson of Summit and Luke Lampton of Magnolia and Alternate Delegates Drs. Dustin Gentry of Louisville and Katie Royals of Hattiesburg. Joining them were MAFP president Dr. James W. Ervin, Jr., of Crystal Springs. Also present prominently was Dr. Brent Smith of Greenville, a member of the AAFP Board of Directors. Other MAFP members present were past-AAFP President Dr. Warren Jones of Ridgeland.
As its tradition, MAFP brought multiple resolutions which received national attention before the Congress of Delegates. The AAFP Congress of Delegates elected Dr. Kisha Davis of Maryland to serve as the Academy’s President-Elect while Drs. Tracy Hendershot of West Virginia, Robyn Liu of Oregon, and Douglas Spotts of Pennsylvania were elected to the AAFP Board of Directors.
The new President, who was elected President-Elect last year, is Dr. Sarah Nosal of New York while Dr. Jen Brull of Colorado will serve as new Board Chair in her role as past President. Other officers elected were Dr. Russell Kohl of Kansas as Speaker of Congress and Dr. Daron Gersch of Minnesota as Vice-Speaker, both of whom announced they would not be running next year for reelection.
Smith Goes to Washington
In February, MAFP member and AAFP Board of Directors member, Dr. Brent Smith, was on Capitol Hill with other members of the AAFP Board of Directors advocating for the protection of Medicaid, ensuring THCGME funding, and enacting Medicare physician payment reform. They had more than 45 meetings with members of Congress and their staffs. Thank you, Dr. Smith, for representing our family physicians and our specialty.
Dr. Warren Jones stands with our MS Delegation and AAFP Board Member, Dr. Brent Smith to pose for a quick photo .
Mississippi delegation working on substitute language to present to the Congress.
Your Mississippi Team working to push issues and set the pace for our Academy.
2026
Future in Family Medicine
Spring Fling will be held April 18, 2026!
MAFP’s Spring Fling event for residents and students was held on Saturday, April 12, 2025. With more than 50 attendees present, the groups met in separate breakout rooms hearing specialized speakers tailored to student and resident needs. They attended procedural workshops on casting/splinting and ultrasound. During the day, they elected student and resident board members.
2025 Spring Fling Student Sponsors
Steven Burkett, DO
Anthony Carter, MD
Susan Chiarito, MD
Anthony Cloy, MD
Renee Dyess, MD
Cierra Green, MD
Emily Landrum, MD
Carlos Latorre, MD
Paul Pavlov, MD
James D. Polk, MD
Michael Sanders, MD
Brent Smith, MD
Chrystal Sumrall, MD
Jeremy Wells, MD
Eric Wilkerson II, MD
Scott Wolfe, MD
The contributions of the MAFP Student Sponsors allow us to invite students and residents to attend MAFP events free of charge to engaged them early in family medicine.
Residents and Students enjoy the casting workshop led by Dr. Jeremy Wells.
Residents pause for a photo during Spring Fling!
MAFP Foundation Hosts First Poster Contest
The MAFP Foundation was proud to host its first-ever ResearchPoster Contest at the 2025 Spring Conference & Spring Fling! We had 15 medical students and 9 residents participate, showcasing their incredible work. Our physicians truly enjoyed viewing all the entries and learning about the research behind each project. The future of family medicine is bright!
Student winners were l to r: Randi Beiner, Nikita Calvin, and Gregory Peacock, from William Carey and Keyona Sutton (not pictured), from UMMC.
Resident winners were l to r: Drs. Charles Adedara,UMMC; Honorine Kebe, MS Delta; Onaola Adedeji, EC-HealthNet; and Manjot Mashiana, from North Mississippi.
The new physician panel was a hit during the 2025 Spring Fling!
Academy Ambassadors Prove Strong At Sandestin
As part of the Academy Ambassador program, medical students attend the MAFP Annual Convention, in exchange for their assistance with planning and putting on the event in Destin. MAFP chooses student applicants who are interested in family medicine and pays for their registration, hotel room and meals for the week. Family Medicine Residencies usually host lunches and dinners for the Ambassadors. During the meeting, the students network with practicing physicians and exhibitors and have free time to have fun together.
These future physicians went above and beyond at the 2025 MAFP Annual Conference in Sandestin, FL helping us bring this year’s theme, “Stronger Together – The Building Blocks of Family Medicine,” to life.
From supporting event logistics to connecting with exhibitors and engaging with physicians from across the state, our Ambassadors played a key role in making the conference a success. We’re proud to support these passionate medical students as they explore the world of family medicine and we’re grateful for their energy, professionalism, and teamwork all week long!
Thank you for helping build a stronger future for family medicine: Madison Bellais, UMMC; Tyler Holland, UMMC; Anie Mitchell, WCUCOM; Jacori Daniels, UMMC; Jenna Purvis, WCUCOM; and Jeffrey Ellison, WCUCOM.
Our students loved our LEGO theme!
Students work the Future in Medicine booth.
LEGO Lady helps sell MAFP swag with the students.
Jacori Daniels and Jeffery Ellison sell Split the Pot tickets. Students take a break during Family Fun Night.
Our students are the coolest!
“Mississippi Row” at AAFP FUTURE
Mississippi brought its signature southern hospitality and family medicine pride to Kansas City for the AAFP FUTURE Conference. Several Mississippi family medicine residency programs were on hand to connect with eager medical students, including:
• Baptist Memorial Hospital
– Desoto, Southaven
• EC-HealthNet, Meridian
• Forrest General, Hattiesburg
• MS Delta Family Medicine Residency, Greenville
• North Mississippi Medical Center,Tupelo
• Southwest Health, McComb
• University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
The FUTURE Conference offers students and residents the chance to explore residency options, meet program leaders, and engage with the latest in healthcare education and resources.
UMMC Family Medicine Resident Dr. Charles Adedara Shares the Importance of FUTURE
Key Highlights of My Participation:
• Resident Delegate: Represented Mississippi at the Resident Congress and contributed to policy discussions.
• Reference Committee Member: Served on one of three committees, helping review and accept a resolution addressing International Medical Graduate (IMG) visa restrictions.
• Resolution Co-Author: Co-authored and supported the successful passage of “Healthcare as a Human Right for ALL” at the Student Congress.
• Workshops: Attended sessions focused on leadership development, advocacy, and innovative approaches to family medicine.
Exhibit Hall Participation: Assisted as part of the welcome team at the Mississippi booth, connecting with students and physician attendees and sharing information about our programs.
“This experience gave me a firsthand look at how resolutions shape AAFP policy, provided opportunities to network with leaders in family medicine, and reinforced the importance of resident voices in these conversations.”
Residency Learning Network Continues Meeting
In 2025, the Mississippi Family Medicine Residency Learning Network continued meeting during the MAFP Spring Conference and Annual Scientific Assembly. The MAFP Foundation hosted two Residency Coordinator meetings and one Residency Director meeting this year. During the Residency Coordinator meeting, the main focus was organizing and planning to attend the AAFP FUTURE National Conference which proved a success. Story on page 26.
MAFP Welcomes WCUCOM
Each month during the school year, WCUCOM student MAFP members gather for testing at the MAFP headquarters upstairs in the Dr. and Mrs. D. Stanley Harness, Jr. Conference Room. This space provides a welcoming environment for the students, reflecting MAFP’s commitment to supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals. The monthly visits foster a sense of community and strengthen the bond between the students and the MAFP.
Pictured from left to right are Courtney Watts, Leanne Bowlin, Leslie Smith, Angie Burks, MaChandra Forest-Wilder, Deena Carpenter, Jennifer Hall, and Lorie Cospelich.
The Residency Directors met during the Spring Conference with the main focus to further collaborate on GME innovation, AAFP FUTURE National Conference, and faculty development and recruitment.
William Carey students pose before testing.
From NP to Family Physician: Dr. Shelby White’s Journey
For Dr. Shelby White, becoming a family physician wasn’t just a career change it was a transformation in how he viewed medicine. After more than a decade as a nurse practitioner, he chose to attend medical school, gaining a deep appreciation for the breadth and depth of physician training. “I chose family medicine because it’s the broadest specialty a physician can pursue,” Dr. White said. Practicing in a rural area, he values the variety and problem-solving that family medicine offers and believes true medicine is never “cookie-cutter.”
Having trained and practiced as both a nurse practitioner and a physician, Dr. White notes the vast difference in preparation around 700 clinical hours as an NP verses nearly 10,000 hours as a physician. “Becoming a physician involves at least ten times more clinical training,” he said. Dr. White is a third year resident at EC-HealthNet Family Medicine Residency Program.
He credits confidence, patience, and resilience as essential qualities for family doctors. Outside of medicine, he enjoys motorsports, travel, and spending time with his wife, children, and grandchild.
Dr. White’s journey is a testament to the dedication and training that define family physicians and the vital role they play in keeping Mississippi healthy
MAFP On The Move
In an effort to expand tobacco-free education across the state, MAFP Foundation Director Beth Wilson coordinates and visits each family medicine residency programs throughout the year to equip residents with the knowledge and tools to share with impactful curriculum. By empowering these future family physicians to deliver Tar Wars and tobacco cessation initiatives in their communities, MAFP is ensuring that tobacco prevention education reaches more Mississippi youth, laying the foundation for healthier futures. Thank you to AAFP Board Member Dr. Brent Smith for volunteering his time to share AAFP oppor-
Memorial Hospital at Gulfport FMR Program ,Gulfport
Boa Vida Family Medicine Residency Program, Aberdeen
This map illustrates the locations of Mississippi’s 2 medical schools and 9 Family Medicine Residency Programs.
North Mississippi Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program, Tupelo
Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto Family Medicine Residency Program, Southaven
UMMC Family Medicine Residency Program, Jackson
Southwest Health Family Medicine Residency Program, McComb
Forrest General Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program,Hattiesburg
A SUCCESS!
More than 109 family physicians, family medicine residents, and medical students joined us in Flowood for MAFP’s Spring Conference April 11-13, 2025. The conference featured CME, workshops, social events, and 38 exhibitors. The CME sessions were held Saturday and Sunday morning. Highlighting the conference was Saturday night social of a rooftop reception and dinner that included the Battle of the White Coats Trivia event.
The MAFP Board of Directors and MAFP Foundation Board of Trustees met during the weekend to plan for future events and discuss issues. Attendees enjoyed both the splinting and casting and the portable ultrasound procedural workshops. MAFP Foundation hosted collaboration meetings among Mississippi family medicine residency coordinators and family medicine directors during the conference.
Drs. Pavlov, Burnett, and Ervin take a break for a photo.
MAFP Past Presidents attend 2025 Spring Conference!
All smiles from Drs. Longest and Whitlock. Rock, Paper, Scissors Competition was fierce.
Dr. Cloy and one of our wonderful exhibitors!
Drs. Dyess and Nash in between CME Sessions.
Drs. Brandon & Latorre in their Magnolia jackets. Drs. Armstrong and Chiarito love MAFP!
A full room of Mississippi Family Physicians!
Dr. Hailey-Sharp leads our devotional.
Winners of the “Battle of the White Coats” Trivia night at Spring Conference!
Stronger Together: The Building Blocks of Family Medicine
During the MAFP Annual Meeting, we enjoyed embracing our LEGO Building Blocks theme inspired by 2024-2025 President, Dr. John Vanderloo. Together, we’re proving that when we connect, collaborate, and create, we’re truly Stronger Together and the future of Family Medicine is strong.
Dr. Vanderloo and his family welcomed our families to the annual MAFP Family Fun Night held at the Marina Beach. The kids were given building-block themed goodies at the entrance, and the evening was filled with water toys, sand building, face painting, airbrush tattoos, dancing, and kid friendly food.
Our doctors earned up to 13 CME credits this year with the potential to earn an additional 8 from our KSA on Diabetes. We also sold out the exhibit hall with 88 exhibits joining us this year! As our attendees know, our exhibit hall helps enhance our meeting with extra activities for our members and families, so we genuinely appreciate their support. From the Scavenger Hunt, "Where is Vanderloo", Mini Massages and Manicures, to the ever favorite "Loot & Scoot", the exhibit hall was the place to be!
Dr. Vanderloo and our “LEGO Lady” mascot.
Dr. Ervin serves as Moderator.
Dr. Hammack enjoys round table discussions.
Dr. Whipple visits Becky Well with MSMA in the exhibit hall.
Drs. Scott, Ogunleye, and Adedeji are all smiles.
MAFP President, Dr. Vanderloo, and Family!
Future Doctor having fun at Marina Bay!
Dr. Sue Simmons poses with her grandson.
Ready for the annual Crab Hunt!
Families enjoying a sandcastle building class!
Dr. Huff and his kids having fun!
MAFP loves their students and Residents!
Nalini Latorre is a Bingo Winner!
Paddleboarding at Marina Bay!
Attendees at the 2025 Annual Scientific Assembly in Sandestin, FL.
Dr. Carlton and Dr. Wilkerson discuss what they’ve learned.
MAFP kids love face painting!
Family Physicians Receive Degree of Fellow
MAFP is pleased to have seven members achieve the Degree of Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Conrad Flick of Raleigh, NC, former American Academy of Family Physicians Board of Directors, presented the Degree of Fellow during the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians Annual Meeting in July.
Established in 1971, the AAFP Degree of Fellow recognizes family physicians who have distinguished themselves through service to family medicine and ongoing professional development. This year ’s fellowship class brings the total number of AAFP Fellows to more than 18,000 nationwide. AAFP Fellowship entitles the physician to use the honorary designation, “Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians,” or “F.A.A.F.P.”
Criteria for receiving the AAFP Degree of Fellow consist of a minimum of six years of membership in the organization, extensive continuing medical education, participation in public service programs outside medical practice, conducting original research and serving as a teacher in family medicine.
The next convocation ceremony will be July 21 at the 2026 MAFP Annual Meeting in Sandestin, Florida
Degree of Fellow
The Degree of Fellow recognizes AAFP members who have distinguished themselves among their colleagues, as well as in their communities, by their service to family medicine, by their advancement of health care to the American people, and by their professional development through medical education and research. Fellows of the AAFP are recognized as champions of family medicine. They are the physicians who make family medicine the premier specialty in service to their community and profession. From a personal perspective, being a Fellow signifies not only 'tenure' but additional work in your community, within organized medicine, within teaching, and a greater commitment to continuing professional development and/or research.
Scan the QR Code for more information.
ABFM Certification
The American Board of Family Medicine is home to more than 100,000 board-certified family physicians and has more than 50 years of experience providing certification. Established by family physicians, board certification is a voluntary specialty credential beyond state medical licensure requirements. As the mark of excellence, board certification demonstrates to your patients and the public that you have met specific family medicine residency training requirements and that you are committed to maintaining this high standard throughout your entire career. It demonstrates your professional and personal commitment to meeting the standards of ethics set by your peers and to lifelong learning, continuous improvement, and assessments of knowledge.
Scan the QR Code for more information.
The following members received the Degree of Fellow at the 2025 meeting: Drs. Eddy del Rio of Gulfport; Paul Pavlov of Biloxi; Claire Harper Moore of Biloxi; Bruce Longest of Bruce; Rickey Chance of Biloxi; Rasheeda Hall of Sumrall; and Chloe Kilman of Jackson.
2024 Fall Intensive Offered Great CME
More than 50 family physicians attended the 2024 MAFP Fall Conference at Embassy Suites in Ridgeland where attendees earned 12 hours of CME. We were also proud to welcome 10 past presidents back for this CME sessions covered several timely topics, including Understanding Autism & IDD, Interpreting Thyroid Labs, Updates in Dermatology, Risk Factors in Prescribing Opioids, and Managing Diabetic
In the afternoon, Drs. John Mitchell, Lee Greer, and Emily Landrum led a Knowledge Self-Assessment (KSA) on Asthma. KSAs are designed to evaluate and strengthen family physicians’ knowledge in core areas of family medicine.
One first-time exhibitor shared this feedback:“Thank you for inviting me to such a fantastic event. I truly enjoyed every moment and came away with even more value than I had anticipated. The doctors were incredibly engaging, and your team’s warmth and hospitality made the experience all the more memorable. I hope to have the opportunity to attend future events.”
MAFP President kicks things off!
Drs. Brandon and Bullock pause for a photo.
Drs. Griffin and Jeff enjoying Fall Intensive.
Drs. Latorre and Landrum catching up.
MAFP Past Presidents in attendance at Fall Intensive 2024.
Dr. Dwight McComb & Jamison McComb with Dr. David Lott.
Fall Conference on the Coast 2025
Our 2025 MAFP Fall CME Conference at The Lodge at Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores was a hit! We had a fantastic time embracing our “No Tricks, Just Treats for MAFP” theme during Friday evening’s reception followed by Game Day CME sessions on Saturday. With a KSA on Heart Disease and seven engaging CME sessions throughout the weekend, attendees gained valuable knowledge to better serve patients across Mississippi.
Dr. Bushardt enjoying the Exhibit Hall.
Our attendees loved the Scavenger Hunt!
MAFP Staff had fun wearing their team colors!
Dr. Catherine Moring was a favorite presenter!
Drs. Burnett and Duffield visit with Journey Wealth in the Exhibit Hall.
Dr. Landrum kicks off the KSA on Heart Disease.
Drs. Vowell, Royals, Burkett, and Sumrall pose in the Exhibit Hall .
No Tricks, Just Treats for MAFP
Our opening reception was full of festive fun from creative costumes and fall-inspired treats to our one-of-a Oyster Art Experience! Attendees and exhibitors enjoyed great fellowship, hands-on creativity, and a perfect start to the Fall Conference. Attendees competed for costume contest titles, and our exhibitors were in the running for best and most spirited booth. The outstanding CME sessions and great speakers made the fall conference one to remember.
“Ana and Olaf” were a hit at our Friday night event.
The Gentry’s “Little Princesses” were the big winners of our Costume Contest!
Dr. Landrum and family enjoy creating their oyster art!
Drs. Gholson and Sumrall getting creative with their oyster art!
Our costume and booth winners showing off their trophies!
Dr. Simmons Named Family Physician of the Year
Dr. Sue Simmons of Maben was honored with the 2025 Family Physician of the Year award, at its Annual Meeting in July.
The award is presented annually to the family physician contributing the most to the development of family medicine in Mississippi. It recognizes a physician who provides his or her community with compassionate and comprehensive medical service on a continuous basis.
Dr. Simmons graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center and then interned at the Medical Center. Afterward, she set up family practice and owned and operated her own hospital, delivering nearly every baby in town.
After returning to her hometown, she worked in county health departments before opening her own Family Clinic where she still practices today. Our honoree currently serves as Southern Regional Medical Director of North MS Medical Clinics.
Dr. Simmons has served as President and Secretary of the MS Academy of Family Physicians and is a former member of the Mississippi State Medical Association.
Today, after 50 years, she remains a beloved family doctor. She has been known to say, Who else gets paid for visiting their friends every day?” Outside the clinic, she spends time with her growing family which includes more than ten grandchildren who call her “Honey”. She is a member of First Baptist Church Maben, and it is said that for her a simple trip to the grocery store turns into a social event. Her dedication, compassion, and pioneering spirit have left an indelible mark on her community.
Dr. Simmons with her husband, Cecil.
Dr. Simmons with her family who attended the Awards Luncheon to celebrate. Back Row pictured l to r : Haley Simmons, Kevin Simmons, Dr. Sue Simmons, Cecil Simmons, Lamar Simmons holding Lindie Sue, and Maranda Simmons.
Front Row pictured l to r: Halle Jo Simmons, Walt Henry, Witt Simmons, and Mayes Simmons
Dr. Hannah Ray Awarded 2025 MAFP New Physician Award
Dr. Hannah Ray, from Indianola was honored as 2025 New Physician of the Year. The New Physician of the Year award is given to one outstanding family physician each year who completed residency training within the last seven years.
In practice for seven years, Dr. Ray completed her undergraduate degree from Louisiana Tech University (Ruston, LA) and earned her M.D. from the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at New Orleans. She completed her residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Since completing residency, she has practiced at Indianola Family Medical Clinic and South Sunflower County Hospital.
Recognizing the importance of competent family physicians, Dr. Ray continues to provide residency training and remains a staunch advocate for women’s health issues. She has already become heavily involved in community service as a way of “paying it back” to her patients. She has championed her hospital’s campaign against Covid, teaches Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics, and conducts several women ’s health outreaches in her community.
Dr. Ray stated, “I was greatly honored and humbled to receive this award. I love the MAFP, and the community it provides for family physicians in Mississippi, and the advocacy it helps us achieve for our patients and communities. I am blessed to be a part of MAFP and blessed to serve my community as a family Physician”.
2024 Winner, Dr. Emily Landrum, presents Dr. Ray with her award.
Dr. Ray’s parents, Mike and Linda Ray, were able to surprise her with their presence at the luncheon. Scan the QR Code to nominate a physician.
Dr. Sheffield Named Humanitarian Award Winner
Paul Sheffield, MD, FAAFP from Jackson, was honored with the prestigious 2025 Humanitarian Award during its Annual Meeting held in July. This esteemed award is reserved for physicians who not only embody the principles of family medicine but who also go above and beyond in addressing critical health care needs, particularly for underserved populations across Mississippi. Recipients of this award are distinguished by their unwavering commitment to patients and communities in need, their leadership in confronting issues of social justice related to health care access, and their dedication to nurturing the next generation of health care professionals.
“Empathetic” and “caring” are words used to describe Dr. Sheffield. What began as a partnership with the Jackson Free Clinic soon morphed into a blessing for patients and staff alike. He dedicates many of his weekends supervising students at the clinic, ensuring that uninsured patients receive quality healthcare. He models the mission of the Free Clinic, combatting injustices in our systems and expanding healthcare access. According to his nominator, “You can find him in the clinic teaching students, chatting with patients, or draining abscesses!”
After receiving his undergraduate degree from Mississippi College, he attended the University of Mississippi Medical Center where he received his Doctor of Medicine. He stayed at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) to complete his residency. During his career, he has been a Family Medicine Preceptor at UMMC as well as a Student Learning Facilitator at UMMC, Mississippi University for Women School of Nursing, and Hinds Community College School of Nursing.
Dr. Sheffield’s efforts go beyond the clinics into his community and even the world. He is a member of Daniel Memorial Baptist Church and has given his time to Lifeline Children’s Services and Bridging the Gap Ministries. He has also participated in numerous medical mission trips to Honduras, Nicaragua, Uganda, and Montana.
Dr. John Mitchell presented Dr. Sheffield with his award.
Dr. Paul Sheffield and his wife, Laurie, after the awards luncheon.
Dr. Smith Honored with Patterson Award
“I’m honored for my name to be mentioned alongside of Katie Patterson’ s, as she was a role model, a mentor, and a friend. I hope by the end of my career we have done as much as we can to carry on her legacy and further her work”.
Brent Smith, MD, FAAFP, from Cleveland, was honored as the 2025 Katie Patterson Award recipient. Dr. Katie Patterson of Indianola was one of the best cheerleaders and mentors for family medicine. After her death in September, 2022, the MAFP created an award in her honor and memory to be given to a physician who provides guidance and encouragement to medical students and residents. This award is given to one outstanding family physician each year who actively provides guidance and encouragement to medical students or residents and contributes to the personal and professional development of future leaders in the field of family medicine.
Dr. Smith grew up in the Mississippi Delta and is a first-generation physician whose parents instilled in him the value of hard work, servant leadership, and community-minded activism. His passion for Family Medicine was kindled during his third year of med school and set fully ablaze after attending an American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) National Resident and Student Conference. That fire continues to burn brightly as he now serves on the AAFP Board of Directors.
After completing residency, he finished his clinical education with a primary care sports medicine fellowship at the University of Alabama, combining an admiration for sports with a desire to treat the entire spectrum of medical conditions affecting athletes. During residency, fellowship and his early career, Smith worked to broaden his education by completing a Bachelor of History from Ouachita Baptist University, a Master of Science in Clinical Education through the University of Edinburgh, and a Master of Legal Studies in Healthcare Law through the University of Oklahoma. Dr. Smith is currently the Program Director for the Mississippi Delta Family Medical Residency Program in Greenville. His dedication to mentoring future family physicians and his statewide outreach to residency programs demonstrate his genuine passion for advancing our specialty.
Dr. Smith is pictured here with Katie’s husband, David, and their sons, Samuel, Reilly, Nicholas, and John Kastens.
Dr. Smith’s family who was in attendance included l to r: Chad Smith, Penny Smith, Dr. Smith, Bailey Smith, and Paige Smith.
Drs. Patterson, Smith and Pavlov share a laugh at the 2022 Annual Session.
David G. Hall Scholarship Recipient
Alice Biglane of Hernando was selected as the recipient of a $1,000 college scholarship in memory of David G. Hall, M.D. Biglane is a 2025 graduate from Northpoint Christian School and attends the University of Mississippi where she plans to major in Exercise Science.
This scholarship was open to all Mississippi seniors who possess an aptitude in the sciences and show an interest in pursuing a career in the field of medicine. To qualify for the scholarship, the student is asked to write an essay describing the impact of a Family Physician in his or her life and/or the role of the Family Physician in the community.
Dr. Adedara Receives Dewitt G. Crawford Scholarship
The Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians Foundation announced Charles Adedara, MD, as the recipient of the 2025 Dewitt Crawford, MD, Scholarship. This annual scholarship made possible through a generous endowment by Mrs. Dewitt G. Crawford, in memory of her husband, supports one deserving resident each year to attend the MAFP Annual Meeting. It honors individuals who exemplify strong leadership through life experience and demonstrate a commitment to future leadership within MAFP.
Dr. Adedara is a first-year resident at the University of Mississippi Family Medicine Residency Program. A passionate advocate for equitable healthcare, Dr. Adedara has expressed a clear vision for engaging with MAFP.
Drs. Hartness and Gentry Receive Alumni Awards
Dr. Stanley Hartness of Jackson, a 1968 graduate of UMMC School of Medicine, has been inducted into the 2025 Medical Hall of Fame.
For more than 40 years, Dr. Hartness dedicated his career to family medicine in Kosciusko delivering babies, caring for nursing home patients, serving in the ER, mentoring future physicians, and making a lasting impact on his community. His leadership extended statewide as president of both the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians (MAFP) and the Mississippi State Medical Association.
In 1998 Dr. Hartness received the Family Physician of the Year Award from the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians, and in 2013, the MAFP Conference Room was dedicated to he and his wife, Beth, for their service to MAFP and in the profession of medicine in Mississippi.
Dr. James Dustin Gentry of Louisville was recognized with the Early Career Achievement Commendation. The Early Career Achievement Commendation highlights an “accomplished young alumna/ alumnus who has made outstanding contributions to the health care field within 15 years of receiving their medical degree.
From being named Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians New Physician of the Year in 2021 to serving on boards, advocacy committees, and pandemic response efforts, Dr. Gentry continues to demonstrate exceptional dedication to his patients, his community, and the medical profession.
Alice receives her scholarship at Awards Day.
Robin Jackson congratulates Dr. Adedara.
Foundation Board of Trustees, 2025-26
During the Annual Meeting in July 2025, members of the MAFP Foundation Board of Trustees elected new officers to serve 1-year terms, including: President: Alex Huff, MD, Pearl River Family Clinic, Poplarville ; Vice President: Anthony Carter, MD, Delta Regional Medical Center, Greenville; Secretary/Treasurer: Susan Chiarito, MD, FAAFP, Mission Primary Care Clinic, Vicksburg
Also elected were Foundation Trustees to serve a 3-year term as follows: Tonya Creech, DO, EC-HealthNet Family Medicine Residency, Meridian; Susan Chiarito, MD, FAAFP, Mission Primary Care Clinic, Vicksburg; and Jessica Jenkins, MD, Madison MEA Medical Clinic, Madison.
Other physicians on the Foundation Board include: Drs. Renee Dyess, MD, Flowood; Barrett Jones, MD, Jackson; Tobe Momah, MD, Jackson; and Carrie Nash, DO, Brandon
Resident Members serving are Drs. Max Bloomingburg , Forrest General FMR and Sneha Hirulkar, MS Delta FMR. Student members elected were Jenna Purvis, WCUCOM; and Khadeejah Franklin, UMMC.
Secretary/Treasurer
President Alex Huff, MD Poplarville, MS Vice President Anthony Carter, MD Greenville, MS
Susan Chiarito, MD, FAAFP Greenville, MS
Ex-Officio John Vanderloo, MD, FAAFP Madison, MS
Trustee Tonya Creech, DO Meridian, MS
Trustee Renee O. Dyess, MD Flowood, MS
Trustee Jessica Jenkins, MD Madison, MS
Trustee Barrett Jones, MD Jackson, MS
Trustee Tobe Momah, MD Jackson, MS
Resident Member Max Bloomingburg, MD Forrest General FMR
Resident Alternate Sneha Hirulkar, MD MS Delta FMR
