Sincerely,
Resident Spotlight
James McSweeney, MD
Birth place: SoCal, CA. USA 🇺🇸
Fun fact: I can explain an acute GI bleed algorithm faster than most people can explain their coffee order.
Favorite dish: I love a good salad - the only thing I'm more passionate about than GI pathophysiology.
Interests: I love to talk film - discussing, critiquing, and defending hot takes on Marvel vs. Scorsese. When I'm not doing that, I'm fishing and boating, applying the same dramatic analysis to every splash in the water.
Post-residency plans: Transplant hepatology year then GI fellowship 🤞.
About the Program
Aerial view of SGMC in Valdosta, GASGMC Health's Internal Medicine Residency Program, partnering with Mercer University School of Medicine, delivers academic excellence and hands-on training to address primary care needs in rural and underserved Georgia communities.
Interesting Facts
- Number of current residents: 36
- Our diversity: Residents from more than 10 different countries
- Number of languages: We speak more than 12 different languages
- Partnership: SGMC's internal medicine residency program is a partnership with Mercer University School of Medicine (MUSM)
- Continuity clinic: The program operates a continuity clinic at SGMC Internal Medicine on Park Avenue in Valdosta.
GME Corner
SGMC Health GME Announces New Chief Residents for The Internal Medicine Residency Program
Outgoing Chief Residents Mariya Tom, MD, and Brandon Rockwell, MD; Internal Medicine Program Director Greg Beale, MD, and Associate Program Director Leslie Lamptey, MD; 2026 Chief Residents Ornob Rahman, MD, and Samuel Edusa, MDSGMC Health's Graduate Medical Education program announced the appointment of Samuel Edusa, MD and Ornob Rahman, MD as Chief Residents for the Internal Medicine Residency Program beginning in March 2026. Selected by their peers and approved by faculty, both physicians were recognized for exceptional leadership, professionalism, and clinical excellence.
During their one-year term, Dr. Edusa and Dr. Rahman will serve as liaisons between residents and faculty, lead educational conferences, coordinate schedules, supervise trainees, and champion resident well-being while overseeing both Internal Medicine and Transitional Year...
Intern Spotlight
Julio Cesar Morciego, MD
Sarah Sabol, MD
Recent Success
SGMC Residents Shine Bright at recent Georgia ACP Conference in Atlanta, GA
Residents with Dr. Sobukonla at the Georgia ACP conference in AtlantaOur residents shone brightly at the Georgia ACP conference in Atlanta! They presented compelling posters, delivered captivating oral podium presentations, and competed in the always-intense Jeopardy competition. The SGMC Internal Medicine Residency Program couldn't be prouder. Their outstanding performance brought recognition to our program and set a new benchmark for future residents. As we celebrate this year's achievements, we're already excited for an even stronger showing next year. Strong work 💪🏼 everyone!
Poster/Podium Presentation Highlights
Residents with Dr. Hayes
Community Service Corner
Addressing Farmer Health at the 47th Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition
Drs. Shaikh and Yasin with Dr. Beale at the ExpoThis year, SGMC Health had excellent representation at the Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition in Moultrie, Georgia. The Sunbelt Ag Expo is truly a spectacle to behold — rightfully crowned as "North America's Premier Farm Show." It's a melting pot of farmers, educators, policymakers, and ag-enthusiasts, all gathered to witness the latest innovations in agriculture. From cutting-edge technology demonstrations to the naming of the Southeastern Farmer of the Year, the expo is a celebration of all things agriculture.
As part of the healthcare initiatives at this year's expo, SGMC Health residents delivered presentations on pertinent...
Halloween 2025
House Staff Diaries
A Mid-Year Reflection for Our Interns
Look how far you've come.
Four months ago, I wrote to you about finding your footing—about those tentative first steps, the wobbles, and the falls that would teach you balance. Today, I'm writing to celebrate the progress you've made and to help you navigate what many call "intern winter" — that challenging middle stretch where the initial excitement has faded, but the finish line still feels distant.
You're No Longer Walking — You're Stepping Forward
Remember when Epic seemed like an impossible maze? Now you navigate it with muscle memory. Remember when every lab value required frantic...
Podcasts
What Brings You In Today? - Featured Podcasts
Episode #5 - Joseph Hayes, MD
Culturosity
Caribbean Soul Feast 🇯🇲🇭🇹
Savory dishes from Jamaica and HaitiOur Culturosity wellness program brought the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to life as residents Michael Heron, MD and Patrick Joseph, MD transformed our gathering into an island feast! Dr. Heron treated us to authentic Jamaican comfort food with tender, fall off the bone oxtail paired with perfectly seasoned rice and peas, steamed cabbage, and sweet fried plantains that transported taste buds straight to Kingston. Not to be outdone, Dr. Patrick Joseph shared the rich culinary traditions of Haiti with his flavorful rice and chicken that had everyone coming back for seconds. Between bites, both doctors shared stories of their...
Residency Highlights
Capturing the Smiles, Milestones, and Unforgettable Moments
Night medicine: After Hour Heroes
Upcoming Events
- Jan 27th, 2026 - Meet & Greet
Birthdays
No birthdays this month 😞
Things To Do In Valdosta
Wild Adventures Theme Park
Open year-round
Enjoy thrilling rides, exotic animals, and live entertainment at this popular theme park.
Learn MoreValdosta Wake Compound
Open seasonally
Experience wakeboarding and other water sports at this state-of-the-art facility.
Learn MoreSouth Georgia Military Aviation Museum
Open Tuesday-Saturday
Explore aviation history with vintage aircraft and memorabilia.
Learn MoreGrand Bay Wildlife Management Area
Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Hike, bird watch, and enjoy nature in this diverse ecosystem.
Learn MoreValdosta State University Fine Arts Gallery
Check website for current exhibitions
View rotating exhibitions of contemporary art by regional and national artists.
Learn More
News From The Clinic
Employee Spotlight
Felicia Farrell
Practice Manager
For the past eleven years, our Internal Medicine team has thrived under the steady leadership of Felicia Farrell, who brings both strategic vision and heartfelt dedication to her role as Practice Manager. What energizes her most is the collaborative spirit flowing through the practice, working alongside providers and nurses to build an environment where everyone feels supported. She finds deep satisfaction knowing that behind every compliance review and budget decision lies a tangible impact on community health and the lives of patients who walk through our doors.Family time anchors Felicia's life outside these walls, providing the balance that fuels her professional passion. When asked what makes her proud to serve here, she points to our unwavering commitment to patient-centered care and the team culture that puts collaboration first. She takes genuine pride in creating conditions that allow providers and staff to focus on what matters most: improving lives every day.Those who work with Felicia know she possesses a creative problem-solving streak that surfaces in unexpected moments, whether tackling workplace challenges or navigating everyday life. That same grounded approach, nurtured by her family connections, keeps her motivated and focused on what truly counts. Her eleven-year journey here reflects not just longevity but a deepening commitment to excellence and community health.