Claiborne Memorial Medical Center and the Willis-Knighton Health Rural Family Medicine Residency Program are preparing to welcome two new physicians who will begin their residency training in Claiborne Parish this summer.
Hospital officials recently announced that Dr. Edgar Diaz and Dr. Carmen Linares will join the Rural Family Medicine Residency Program as first-year residents beginning in July.
The residency program, a partnership between Claiborne Memorial Medical Center and Willis-Knighton Health, is designed to train physicians in the practice of family medicine while emphasizing the unique healthcare needs of rural communities. Residents receive hands-on clinical experience while caring for patients throughout the region under the guidance of experienced medical professionals.
Program leaders expressed enthusiasm about the addition of Dr. Diaz and Dr. Linares, noting their dedication to patient care and commitment to serving underserved and rural populations.
“Their passion for patient care, dedication to family medicine, and commitment to serving rural communities make them outstanding additions to our program,” residency officials stated.
Over the next three years, both physicians will undergo extensive training in a variety of healthcare settings, gaining experience in preventive care, chronic disease management, pediatric care, women’s health, emergency medicine, and other aspects of family practice.
Healthcare leaders say rural residency programs play a vital role in addressing physician shortages by preparing doctors to practice in smaller communities where access to healthcare services is often limited.
The Claiborne Memorial Medical Center Rural Family Medicine Residency Program has become an important resource for both physician training and patient care in North Louisiana, helping ensure that local residents have access to quality healthcare close to home.
Hospital officials are encouraging community members to join them in welcoming Dr. Diaz and Dr. Linares to Claiborne Parish as they begin the next chapter of their medical careers.
As they embark on their residency journey, the two physicians will become part of a growing network of healthcare professionals dedicated to improving the health and well-being of families throughout the region.
Medical center leaders say they look forward to watching the new residents grow as physicians, community leaders, and advocates for the patients they will serve during their time in Claiborne Parish and beyond.