He would start dialysis units in Columbus, Starkville, Macon and Louisville.
Reed has been a constant figure at Baptist Golden Triangle since he joined the hospital’s medical staff in June 1976. He served as its first Chief Medical Officer and currently holds the title of Chief Medical Officer Emeritus.
After 10 to 15 years on the medical staff, Reed said he realized the need for the residency program when he saw how hard it had become to recruit young doctors to Columbus. Working with a team from the hospital, the group submitted an application to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education for an Internal Medicine Residency Program in the fall of 2015.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. James Martin told the crowd of about 100 that Dr. Reed was passionate about bringing a residency program to Columbus for years. The program became accredited for a Community Based Program for 18 residents in July 2016, becoming the first Internal Medicine Residency program in the Baptist Memorial Health Care system
The first class of six residents started in July 2017 and since then, the program has made a definite impact on the physician shortage in the state. Of the 27 graduates, 13 will practice in Mississippi, including five at Baptist Golden Triangle.
"A physician shortage is a real problem all across the US. What better way to address a physician shortage than to train your own physicians and have them stay in Mississippi?" Martin said.
Hospital CEO Rob Coleman recognized Dr. Reed, along with Dr. Chris LeBrun, the program's first director; Dr. Martin; and Dr. Christina Collins, the current program director. "Your unwavering support and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. We could not have done it without you," Coleman said.
"The journey to today's dedication has been filled with hard work, determination and a shared dream. This building and what it has become is more than just bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of the collective efforts and aspirations," Coleman added. "As we dedicate this building today, let us remember that it is the people within who will continue to bring it to life. May we continue to inspire new ideas, cultivate meaningful connections and support the aspirations of all who walk through these doors."
Since the program started with its first class of six residents in July 2017, it has graduated 20 residents, Seven additional physicians are to graduate in June. Many of these doctors are staying in the state. In addition to the five who are practicing in Columbus, three will be practicing in Oxford; three are going to Tupelo; one will go to Jackson; and one is moving to the Gulf Coast, according to Martin.