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Why did you choose to pursue a career in health care?
The reason I went into health care was to help people. I initially started out in emergency medical services then continued my education by getting my nursing and physician assistant degrees.
What has attracted you to live and practice in a rural area?
I grew up in Dooly County, and the hospital there was one of the first to close in the state. There are so many areas in our state that have no hospitals or providers, leaving a huge void. I like being part of the solution in providing care.
What excites you most about the future of rural medicine?
Telemedicine is opening so many doors, and an example is the REACH Stroke Program that the smaller hospitals have with the larger hospitals. A stroke patient can have the computerized tomography scan performed, evaluation by a neurosurgeon, and treatment with a thrombolytic, if indicated, all via telemedicine. More and more specialties are starting to assist in rural areas giving access to care that would previously take hours to obtain in the past.
What advice would you offer to a practitioner considering rural medicine?
It can be frustrating at times because our limited resources. However, it is very rewarding to know that you are filling a void in a community you will love and become a part of. By practicing in rural Georgia, you will make a difference.
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