AZALEA REPORT

SGMC Health Internal Medicine Residency Newsletter

Edition 1, October 2024

Welcome

We are excited to launch the inaugural edition of Azalea Report, a resident-led digital newsletter for the Internal Medicine Residency program at South Georgia Health in Valdosta, Georgia. We chose the name "Azalea Report" to honor Valdosta's nickname as the "Azalea City," reflecting our aim to flourish and showcase the best of our program, much like the vibrant azaleas that bloom across our city each spring. In this first edition, we're excited to spotlight outstanding residents, share program achievements, and hear from our newly appointed Chief Residents about their plans for the coming year. We'll also feature a section on community engagement, highlighting how our residents contribute to Valdosta and surrounding areas. Whether you're a current resident, faculty member, or prospective applicant, we invite you to learn more about our residency program through the Azalea Report and join us on this exciting journey of growth and excellence in medical education.

Sincerely,

The Azalea Report team

Resident Spotlight

Michael Heron, MD

Birth place: Kingston, Jamaica

Fun fact: I run the 100m in 11 seconds when I was 15 🏃🏾

Favorite dish: Oxtails or Shrimp Alfredo

Interests: Soccer & fitness ("nothing beats a good workout after a long day of work")

Post-residency plans: I aspire to assume leadership roles within internal medicine and contribute to advancements in clinical guidelines and patient care.

About the Program

Aerial view of SGMC in Valdosta, GA

SGMC Health's Internal Medicine Residency Program, in partnership with Mercer University School of Medicine, combines academic excellence with hands-on experience, leveraging SGMC Health's highly capable healthcare delivery system to meet the primary care and healthcare needs of rural and medically underserved areas of Georgia.

Program Statistics

Number of current residents: 24
Our diversity: Residents from 10 different countries
Number of languages: We speak 12 different languages

The Chiefs' Corner

Monica Kovuri, MD

Dr. Monica Kovuri joins our team of Chief Residents, bringing a wealth of diverse experience and a passion for endocrinology. A graduate of Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Dr. Kovuri has demonstrated exceptional clinical skills and leadership throughout her residency. "I'm honored to serve as a Chief Resident and excited to contribute to our program's growth," says Dr. Kovuri. "My goal is to foster an environment of continuous learning and...

Venkata Gandi, MD

Dr. Gandi joins our team of Chief Residents, bringing a unique international perspective and a keen interest in pulmonary critical care. A graduate of St. Matthew's University School of Medicine in Grand Cayman, Dr. Gandi has consistently demonstrated exceptional clinical acumen and leadership throughout his residency. "As a Chief Resident, my primary goal is to be a strong advocate for our residents at both the GME and attending physician...

Message from the Program Director

Gregory Beale, MD

Program Director, Internal Medicine Residency

"Hard to believe that we are now 2 1/3 years into our IM residency program. I am proud of each and every one of you. Keep up the hard work and independent education. ABIM will come quicker than you think."

Recent Success

SGMC Residents Shine Bright at recent Georgia ACP Conference in Savannah, GA

Residents, leadership and faculty at the Georgia ACP conference

Our residents shone brightly at the Georgia ACP conference in Savannah! Poster presenters wowed audiences with their research and clinical insights, while our Jeopardy team - Drs. McSweeney, Silverio-Lopez, and Mohan - clinched an impressive 5th place out of 15, surpassing several highly-ranked programs. The SGMC Internal Medicine Residency Program couldn't be prouder of all participants. Their outstanding performance has not only brought recognition to our program but also 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 Presentation Highlights

Dr. Sharma presents an intriguing HIV neuropathy case

Dr. Gandi presents an intriguing case of Renal Subcapsular Hematoma following transradial catheterization

Dr. Silverio presents case of Chagas cardiomyopathy in US resident from Central America

Dr. Munir presents a rare case of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis

Dr. Rockwell presents case of Sweet syndrome

Dr. Sharma presents an intriguing HIV neuropathy case

Community Service Corner

The Eye of the Storm - Humanity Unveiled

By: Samuel Edusa, MD

Outside the shelter before the storm hit

As Hurricane Helene howled outside, an unlikely assemblage of strangers sought sanctuary within the walls of a local church. I found myself there, a resident physician volunteering alongside Red Cross staff, about to witness an extraordinary display of human resilience and connection.

SGMC Health had prepared the shelter to accommodate patients requiring oxygen support. Among them were Ron, a young man with autism, and his mother. Her constant justification for their presence struck a chord. It was a poignant reminder of the difficult choices we face during crises, when the lines between necessity and precaution...

Through the Lens: Residency Highlights

Capturing the Smiles, Milestones, and Unforgettable Moments

Jeopardy team at Georgia ACP conference, Savannah

Code Blue averted: Docs escape (the escape room) without a consult! (Georgia ACP 2024, Savannah)

Brandons' hand (an expression of how to seize the moment) (Georgia ACP 2024, Savannah)

Leadership & faculty cheer residents on at Georgia ACP, Savannah

Happy Birthday Dr. Chaudhary

Upcoming Events

Oct 14, 2024 - First day of interviews
Oct 15, 2024 - Dr. Bipin Patel retirement celebration (2.30-4.30 PM at Main campus cafeteria)
Oct 15, 2024 - Medical staff meeting in the evening
Oct 15 - 17, 2024 - Moultrie PCOM Sun Ag Expo
Oct 25, 2024 - Dr. Kinley Shook-Chacon's baby shower
Oct 26, 2024 - Halloween Party at Dr. Bias'

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 More
Valdosta Wake Compound
Open seasonally
Experience wakeboarding and other water sports at this state-of-the-art facility.
Learn More
South Georgia Military Aviation Museum
Open Tuesday-Saturday
Explore aviation history with vintage aircraft and memorabilia.
Learn More
Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area
Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Hike, bird watch, and enjoy nature in this diverse ecosystem.
Learn More
Valdosta 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

Melissa Wilkerson

Medical Assistant

Employee Spotlight

Meet Melissa Wilkerson, one of our devoted medical assistants who has been with our clinic since its opening in August 2022. Melissa is passionate about her work and equally dedicated to her family life. When not providing excellent care to our patients, she can often be found cheering on her daughter at softball games. Melissa also enjoys quality time with family and friends. Her long-standing commitment and experience make her an invaluable member of our team.

Wellness corner

Quick Tips for Healthy Eating at Work

Good nutrition is key to mental and physical health. Here are some tips to eat healthier at work:

Plan ahead: Set time each week to plan meals and shop for groceries.
Stock up: Keep healthy basics at work (e.g., whole grain crackers, fruit, yogurt)
Prep smartly: Use food containers to keep ingredients separate until eating
Pack essentials: Bring fresh bread, lean meats, salad extras, and healthy snacks

Remember, the food you eat affects how you feel and perform. Start small and build healthier habits over time!