North Mississippi Healthcare Guide
LETTER FROM LEADERSHIP
Building a Healthier Future for North Mississippi
On behalf of our board of directors, medical staff, and dedicated employees, thank you for choosing Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi as your healthcare provider. We greatly appreciate your trust and ask for your continued support in 2025.
Since assuming the role of CEO at Baptist North Mississippi, I have listened and learned that this community values and appreciates our long legacy of great health care. As a regional referral center, we are deeply committed to honoring the trust you place in us. Our goal is to be more than just a healthcare facility—we strive to be a trusted partner in the community we serve and a leader in advancing healthcare.
From the moment I joined the team, I have been deeply inspired by the unwavering dedication, passion, and expertise of our physicians and staff members at every level. Their steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional care and advancing innovation in healthcare is truly remarkable. They come together quickly when called to action, consistently going above and beyond to ensure the safety of our patients and our communities.
Our success is driven by our high-quality staff, whose passion and expertise make exceptional care possible. We are committed to supporting our team members and building an environment where they feel valued and empowered. This commitment has placed us in the top 25% of healthcare teams nationally for team member engagement and satisfaction. At Baptist, we strive to create a workplace that employees are proud to be a part of and where their contributions are recognized, and their well-being is a priority.
An example of this dedication to exceptional care is the prestigious award our hospital received from Vizient Inc., ranking us among the top 10% of large medical centers nationally for quality care. Thanks to the outstanding efforts of our medical staff and
team members, we achieved better outcomes for our patients than renowned institutions like Mayo Clinic and Intermountain Healthcare, earning national recognition for our commitment to quality and safety.
We strive to cultivate a culture of service excellence, ensuring you receive the best possible care every time you visit our facility.
We are proud to introduce new services, including the Watchman procedure for atrial fibrillation, Aquablation therapy for men with enlarged prostates (BPH) and many other advanced treatments.
With the exceptional quality of physicians in our community, the hospital’s ongoing investments in expanding services, integrating advanced technology, and fostering partnerships with local organizations, Baptist has positioned Oxford as a premier destination for healthcare in the region.
Baptist is committed to upholding the highest standards of patient care, operational efficiency, and staff satisfaction. Together, I believe we can navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring that our hospital remains a beacon of health and wellness in the community.
Once again, thank you for trusting Baptist with your care. We are honored to serve you and are devoted to making a meaningful, lasting impact on the lives of those in our community.
Committed to care,
Brian Welton CEO & Administrator Baptist North Mississippi
ACUTE REHABILITATION
★ Brett Lampton, MD
★ Devin Wells, MD
★ Josh Minga, NP
1100 Belk Boulevard
662-636-4233
ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY
MISSISSIPPI ASTHMA & ALLERGY CLINIC
★ Claire Rosenblatt, MD
★ Winn Walcott, MD 1190 South 18th Street
662-236-7522
ANESTHESIOLOGY
★ Scott Steed, MD
★ Greg Thompson, MD 1100 Belk Boulevard 901-9132-9229
CARDIOLOGY
STERN CARDIOVASCULAR
★ Thomas Flautt, DO
★ Eric Johnson, MD
★ Samuel Latham, MD
★ Justin May, DO
★ Alison Spangler, DO
★ Joeli Link, NP
★ Hope Ross, NP
★ Raquel Vaughan, NP
★ McKenzie Williamson, NP
100 Baptist Memorial Circle, Suite 201 | 662-636-2400
STERN CARDIOVASCULAR
★ Mark Campbell, MD
★ Cal Laney, MD
★ Mark Strong, MD
★ Tiffany Leister, NP
2209 Jefferson Davis Drive
662-281-1115
CARDIOVASCULAR AND THORACIC SURGERY
BMG: OXFORD
CARDIOVASCULAR AND THORACIC SURGERY
★ Ian Lyn, MD
★ Sonquanetta Owens, NP
★ Katy Waters Shields, NP
100 Baptist Memorial Circle, Suite 120
662-636-2452
DERMATOLOGY
OXFORD DERMATOLOGY
★ Philip Loria, Jr., MD
★ Jenna Cooper, PA
2204 Jefferson Davis Drive 662-236-6850
DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES OF OXFORD
★ Ann Chancellor Roberson, MD
★ Lindsay Shipp, MD
★ Whitney Crow, NP
★ Mary Chris Moore, NP
★ Kimberly Guyton, PA
★ Katie McDaniel Jenkins, PA 1626 Highway 30 E, Suite 105 662-371-1326
ENDOCRINOLOGY
BMG - OXFORD ENDOCRINE
★ Anitha Gondhi, MD
★ Raveena Nalla, MD
★ Margaret Embry, NP 551 Azalea Drive 662-636-5335
EMERGENCY MEDICINE
★ Patrick Carr, MD
★ Preston Gallaher, MD
★ Cas Heath, MD
★ Michael Koury, MD
★ Michael Magee, MD
★ Antone “Mac” Nichols, MD
★ Taylor Sawyer, MD
★ Thomas Smith, MD
★ Jason Waller, DO
★ Jamie Holloway, NP
★ Brody Horne, NP
★ Mindy Lafayette, NP
★ Courtney Sessums, NP
★ Melissa Williams, NP
★ Reed Knight, PA 1100 Belk Boulevard 662-636-1196
FAMILY MEDICINE
NORTH MISSISSIPPI FAMILY MEDICINE GROUP
★ Ana Maria Benefield, MD
★ Shaun Helmhout, MD
★ Kecia Kirk, MD
★ Jackey Turner, MD
★ Jene’ Smith, NP 1397 Belk Boulevard 662-236-4675
WHITE OAK FAMILY MEDICINE CLINIC
★ Erik Richardson, MD 1306 Belk Boulevard 662-236-1927
NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH SERVICES
★ Mona Castle, MD
★ Thomas Glasgow, MD 2161 South Lamar Boulevard 662-234-1791
WEBB FAMILY MEDICAL CLINIC
★ Kimberly Webb, MD 2222 Jackson Avenue West 662-380-5560
NORTH MISSISSIPPI HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATES
★ Neeli Kirkendall, NP
★ Leslie Sheffield, NP 2716 West Oxford Loop, Suite 171 662-715-3335
ONECARE EXPRESS MEDICAL CLINIC
★ Shelly Alamry, NP
★ Cassie Austin, NP
2706 West Oxford Loop, Suite 103 | 662-380-5445
GASTROENTEROLOGY
ONE GI
★ Kevin Batte, MD
★ David Bridgers, MD
★ S. Todd Threadgill, MD
★ Ernest Williams, MD
★ Leigh Beth Brown, NP
★ Leslie McCollum, NP
★ Sarah Morrow, NP 1208 Office Park Drive; 1204 Office Park Drive, Suite B
662-234-9888
GENERAL SURGERY
OXFORD SURGICAL & BARIATRIC CLINIC
★ Walker Byars, MD
★ Robert McAuley, MD
★ Carah Walker, NP
506 Azalea Drive
662-234-4744
BMG - NORTH MISSISSIPPI
SURGICAL ASSOCIATES
★ Alan Ellis, MD
★ Charles Hill, MD
81 Ed Perry Boulevard Suite 105 | 662-636-5550
HEMATOLOGY
BAPTIST CANCER CENTER
★ Clayton Allen, MD
★ Andrew Benefield, MD
★ Ryan Yates, MD
★ Grayson Sheley, NP
★ Anna Wiygul, NP
504 Azalea Drive 662-636-4444
HOSPITALIST
★ Mohammad Alkhatib, MD
★ Ala Alkofahi, MD
★ Nikki Cager, MD
★ Michael Chiadika, MD
★ Samuel Harris, MD
★ Chandra Krishna, MD
★ Joella Lambert, MD
★ Kosana Lee, MD
★ Margaret MacMillan, DO
★ Jacob Mercier, MD
★ Hafida Mumallah, DO
★ Kelton Pace, MD
★ Philip Paine, MD
★ Alexander Parr, MD
★ Ramsey Turner, MD
★ Jacob Whelan, MD
★ Catherine Bryant, NP
★ Malorie DeVaughn, NP
★ Chanelle Hunter, NP
★ Leanna Pearson, NP
★ Marilyn Smith, NP
1100 Belk Boulevard
662-636-5189
INTERNAL MEDICINE
INTERNAL MEDICINE
ASSOCIATES OF OXFORD
★ Jeffrey Dennis, MD
★ Charles Hill, MD
★ Eric Carlton, NP
★ Kathryn Elliott, NP
★ Meghan Mills, NP
★ Sharon Upton, NP
551 Azalea Drive
662-234-0332
BMG - INTERNAL MEDICINE
RESIDENCY CLINIC
★ Sumner Abraham, MD
★ Reed Davis, MD
★ Estefania Lara Garcia, MD
★ Johnny Green, DO
★ Damian Mercier, MD
★ Segar Morris, DO
★ Andrew Whittington, DO
81 Ed Perry Boulevard
662-636-5290
MEDICAL ONCOLOGY
BAPTIST CANCER CENTER
★ Clayton Allen, MD
★ Andrew Benefield, MD
★ Ryan Yates, MD
★ Grayson Sheley, NP
★ Anna Wiygul, NP
504 Azalea Drive
662-636-4444
NEPHROLOGY
NEPHROLOGY AND HYPERTENSION ASSOCIATES
★ Vikram Beemidi, MD
★ Nathan Bell, MD
★ Morris Hamilton, MD
★ Son Lam, MD
★ Chris Miller, MD
★ Kathy Thomas, NP 1790 Barron Street
662-236-2900
NEUROLOGY
OXFORD NEUROLOGY CLINIC
★ Megan Edwards, DO
★ Malcolm Roland, MD
★ Penny Burcham, NP
★ Anita Thomas, NP
2908 South Lamar Boulevard, Suite 100 | 662-281-0112
NEUROSURGERY
BMG - OXFORD NEUROSURGERY
★ Sonia Eden, MD
★ Natalie Nelson, NP
★ Tammi Lawrence, PA
100 Baptist Memorial Circle, Suite 202 | 662-636-2451
OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY
OXFORD OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY ASSOCIATES
★ Meredith Griffin, MD
★ Julie Harper, MD
★ Kaitlyn Mize, MD
★ Greg Patton, MD
★ Joseph Sams, MD
★ Shelby Walters, MD
★ Katie Sabatier, CNM 1204 Medical Park Drive 662-236-5717
OXFORD CLINIC FOR WOMEN
★ Sam Cole, MD
★ William Henderson, MD
★ Shelby Liddell, MD
★ Hannah Dye, NP
★ Deanna Mackie, NP
★ Mary Lela VonderHaar, PA 2610 South Lamar Boulevard 662-234-1731
OCULOPLASTIC SURGERY
RAYNER EYE CLINIC
★ Thomas Tann, III, MD 2606 South Lamar Boulevard 662-234-6551
OPHTHALMOLOGY
MISSISSIPPI EYE CONSULTANTS
★ James Shipp, MD
★ Katie Stuckey, DO
★ Lana Taylor, DO 1628 Highway 30 East 662-234-3937
RAYNER EYE CLINIC
★ Doty Farmer, MD
★ Cliff Guyton, MD
★ Thomas Tann, III, MD
★ Jonathan Zoghby, MD 2606 South Lamar Boulevard 662-234-6551
ORAL AND
MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
LIGON ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
★ Allen Ligon, DDS 1121 Mimosa Drive 662-236-5300
OXFORD ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
★ Scott Whitaker, DMD, MD 2886 South Lamar Boulevard 662-236-7888
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY AND SPORTS MEDICINE
OXFORD ORTHO AND SPORTS MEDICINE
★ Daniel Boyd, MD
★ Tyler Ellis, MD
★ Hunter Haley, MD
★ Kurre Luber, MD
★ Cooper Terry, MD
★ Chloe Lloyd, NP
★ Anna Burns, PA 497 Azalea Drive, Suite 102 | 662-513-2000
SPECIALTY ORTHOPEDIC GROUP
★ Cal Adams, MD
★ Sean Farrell, MD
★ Ed Field, MD
★ Gabriel Lensing, MD
★ Tyler Marks, MD
★ A. Ryves Moore, MD
★ Rowland Roberson, MD
★ Phillip Sandifer, MD
★ Miranda Bennett, NP
★ Courtney Pruitt, NP
★ Katie Soldevila, NP
★ Chase Crumpton, PA
★ Jordan Ellis, PA
100 Baptist Memorial Circle, Suite 330 | 662-371-1925
CAMPBELL CLINIC ORTHOPAEDICS
★ Chad Campion, MD
★ Christopher Holland, MD
★ Joseph Lamplot, MD
★ Andrew Murphy, MD
★ Ashley Lewis Park, MD
★ David Richardson, MD
★ Benjamin Sheffer, MD
★ Henry Sherman, MD
★ Cristina Leis, PA
2608 South Lamar Boulevard Suite 102 | 901-759-3100
OTOLARYNGOLOGY
EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT CONSULTANTS OF NORTH MISSISSIPPI
★ Ford Dye, MD
★ Scott Harrison, MD
★ John Laurenzo, MD
★ Pearson Windham, MD 497 Azalea Drive Suite 101 | 662-234-1337
PAIN MANAGEMENT
PROGRESSIVE HEALTH PAIN AND WELLNESS
★ Rex Williams, DO
★ Amanda Bagwell, NP
★ Teresa Hewlett, NP 662-638-0462
PATHOLOGY
PATHGROUP
★ Jared Cobb, MD
★ Barbara Proctor, MD 1100 Belk Boulevard 662-636-1051
PEDIATRICS AND ADOLESCENTS
OXFORD PEDIATRIC GROUP
★ Michael Dennis, MD
★ Meredith Jordan, MD
★ Doug Sanford, MD
★ Molly Singletary, MD
★ Trey Warrington, MD
★ Laken Hayden, NP
★ McKenzie Wills, NP 101 Farm View Drive 662-513-4399
LAFAYETTE PEDIATRIC CLINIC
★ Tanya Fitts, MD
★ Ann Glaser, MD 1300 Access Road Suite 400 | 662-236-3939
PHILLIPS PEDIATRICS
★ Catherine Phillips, MD
★ Brooke Underwood, NP 2682 West Oxford Loop 662-371-1543
CHILDREN’S CLINIC OF OXFORD
★ Joe Harris, MD
★ Paula Akers, NP 2888 South Lamar Boulevard 662-234-8286
PEDIATRIC HOSPITALIST
★ John Paul McLendon, MD 1100 Belk Boulevard
662-636-3200
PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION
BMG - OXFORD PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHAB
★ Devin Wells, MD
★ Josh Minga, NP
100 Baptist Memorial Circle Suite 202 | 662-636-2451
PLASTIC SURGERY
SHELL PLASTIC SURGERY
★ Dan Shell, IV, MD
★ Leslie Gordon, NP 2680 West Oxford Loop 662-236-6465
PULMONOLOGY AND CRITICAL CARE
BMG - OXFORD PULMONOLOGY
★ Jeffrey Evans, MD
★ Jennifer Gardner, DO
★ Stacey Miller, MD
★ Katy Minga, NP
100 Baptist Memorial Circle Suite 200 | 662-636-2450
RADIATION ONCOLOGY
BMG - BAPTIST
CANCER CENTER
★ John Cantrell, MD
★ Todd Mereniuk, MD
504 Azalea Drive
662-636-4300
RADIOLOGY
RADIOLOGY ASSOCIATES OF OXFORD
★ Mark Gunn, MD
★ Paxton Jones, MD
★ William King, MD
★ Keith Lawrence, MD
★ Chad Mann, MD
★ Lee Norris, MD
★ S. Todd Roth, MD
★ Allen Sneed, MD
★ Will Stewart, MD
1100 Belk Boulevard
662-636-1182
RHEUMATOLOGY
BMG - OXFORD RHEUMATOLOGY
★ Kirk Eddleman, MD
★ Lauren Hayward, MD
★ Micaela Perkins, NP
★ Leigh Anne VanDevender, NP
100 Baptist Memorial Circle Suite 200 | 662-636-4333
SLEEP MEDICINE
BMG - OXFORD PULMONOLOGY
★ Jeffrey Evans, MD
100 Baptist Memorial Circle Suite 220 | 662-636-2250
URGENT CARE
EXPRESS CARE
★ Bonnie Ellzey, NP
★ Katrina Fields, NP
★ Kristina Loprinzi, NP 1515 University Avenue 662-238-0011
OLE TOWN MED
★ Macey Chrestman, NP
★ Laura Hill, NP
★ Jason McCain, NP 2580 West Jackson Avenue Suite 44 | 662-234-9112
OXFORD URGENT
CARE CLINIC
★ Holly Armstrong, NP
★ Stephanie Barrett, NP
★ Michael Chandler, NP
★ Kathryn Sinn, NP
★ Tracey Smiley, NP 1929 University Avenue 662-236-2232
URGENT CARE CLINIC OF OXFORD
★ Will Dabbs, Jr, MD
★ Larken Ware, MD
★ Andrea Bynum, NP
★ Chastity Heath, NP
★ John Lewis, NP
★ Rachel Sledge, NP 1487 Belk Boulevard 662-234-1090
REDMED
★ Rhonda Baker, NP
★ Clara Beck, NP
★ Cathryn Goss, NP
★ Casey Tramel, NP
1902 B Jackson Avenue West 662-234-6464
UROLOGY
OXFORD UROLOGY ASSOCIATES
★ Andrew Gowdey, MD
★ Joshua Griffin, MD
★ Brent Hardin, MD
★ Land Renfroe, MD
★ Michelle Barbee, NP
★ Russ Billingsley, NP
★ Lisa Bradham, NP
★ Lisa Clark, NP
★ Jason Melton, NP
★ Chris Scruggs, NP
★ Darian Wales, NP
★ Anna Boudreaux, PA 2168 South Lamar Boulevard 662-234-1448
VASCULAR SURGERY
VASCULAR AND VEIN INSTITUTE OF THE SOUTH
★ Anton Dias Perera, MD, FACS
★ Prateek K. Gupta, MD, FACS
★ Daniel M. Alterman, MD, FACS, RPVI, FSVS
★ Gabor A. Winkler, MD, FACS
★ Samantha Hamblin, MSN, AGNP-C
★ Samantha Clark, FNP-C
★ Shelby McDonald, DNP, FNP-C
★ Sitra Yonis DNP, FNP-C
★ Dana Williams MSN, FNP-C
★ Amy Crowe, NP
2704 W Oxford Loop, Suite 110 901-390-2930 www.vvisouth.com
WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY
OXFORD SURGICAL AND BARIATRIC CLINIC
★ Walker Byars, MD
★ Robert McAuley, MD
★ Carah Walker, NP 506 Azalea Drive 662-234-4744
BAPTIST NORTH MISSISSIPPI LEADS THE WAY IN ADVANCED HEART CARE
The Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi Heart Care Center offers a full continuum of premier cardiac care, from heart surgery to cardiac rehabilitation. When seconds matter, this technology provides rapid diagnostics and better treatment.
Coupled with the Chest Pain Center, Baptist continues to provide comprehensive heart care services in one facility. The center is equipped with advanced technology and laboratories for heart catheterization, electrophysiology, and peripheral vascular procedures. It also offers a wide range of noninvasive diagnostics services to ensure comprehensive cardiovascular care. The center offers a two-phase cardiac rehabilitation program designed to restore patients to normal levels of activity and reduce future risk of heart problems.
Other diagnostic and noninvasive services include transthoracic echocardiography (M-mode, 2-D Doppler, strain imaging), transesophageal echocardiography (2D. 3D. and Doppler imaging), non-invasive vascular studies, stress electrocardiography (EKG, ECG), pediatric transthoracic echocardiography, coronary intensive care and Holter monitoring.
Invasive services include cardiovascular surgery, renal angiography, aortography, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty stents, pacemakers and internal defibrillator implantations.
The electrophysiology laboratory (EP lab) is used to assess and repair a heart’s electrical system and diagnose abnormal heartbeats such as bradycardia, tachycardia, atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrest. The EP lab allows physicians to perform cardiac ablations, electrophysiology studies, D mapping, and device implants such as pacemakers and defibrillators.
In 2024, the electrophysiology team performed several milestones including the first leadless Aveir pacemaker, a Vein of Marshall alcohol ablation and the first Watchman procedure, a minimally invasive, one-time procedure designed to reduce the risk of strokes that originate in the left atrial appendage. Left atrial appendage occlusion (Watchman) can allow patients to safely discontinue their blood thinner while simultaneously providing protection from strokes caused by atrial fibrillation.
Baptist North Mississippi was also the first hospital in north Mississippi to provide the new transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedure using the Evolut FX+ system.
Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Evolut FX+ transcatheter aortic valve replacement system offers larger coronary windows for any future heart catheterization procedures that may require percutaneous intervention of the coronaries. TAVR is a procedure that replaces a diseased aortic valve with a man-made valve.
The American College of Cardiology recently recognized Baptist North Mississippi for excellence in diagnostic catheterizations and percutaneous coronary interventions in its Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Accreditation.
Baptist North Mississippi earned the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain-MI Registry Platinum Performance Award for the fifth consecutive year. The center also holds accreditation in TEE and Eco Chest Pain Center Accreditations.
For more information, please visit www.baptistonline.org/locations/northmississippi or follow Baptist North Mississippi on Facebook @BaptistNorthMississippi.
Baptist North Mississippi campus located at 1100 Belk Boulevard in Oxford.
Lungcancerscreeningssavelives.Andthebesttimetohaveyourscreening isnow,especiallyifyouareathigh-riskfordevelopinglungcancer.
•Areyouatleast55yearsold?
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Ifyoucananswer‘yes’toanyofthesequestions,weencourageyoutotake ourlungcancerscreeningquizatbaptistcancercenter.com/lung,orcall 662-636-4252toscheduleyourscreening.
Earlydetectionisthebestdefenseinthefightagainstcancer.Schedule yourscreeningtoday.
662-636-4252 baptistcancercenter.com/lung
Chronic knee pain can be a debilitating condition, making everyday tasks like walking, standing, or even sleeping a challenge. Many individuals with severe knee pain due to degenerative arthritis are often left with limited treatment options—until now. The Vascular Institute, with a convenient office in Oxford, MS, is bringing cutting-edge care to North Mississippi with Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), a revolutionary, minimally invasive solution for knee pain relief.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
GAE is an advanced, non-surgical procedure designed to reduce knee pain by targeting the blood supply to inflamed knee tissues. According to Dr. Daniel Alterman, one of the vascular surgeons at the Vascular Institute, “GAE is a game-changer for patients
struggling with chronic knee pain. By reducing inflammation at the source, we can provide substantial relief without major surgery.”
The procedure involves inserting a tiny catheter into the genicular artery, through which microscopic beads are injected to block abnormal blood vessels that contribute to pain and inflammation. By reducing inflammation and eliminating pain signals, patients experience significant and lasting relief without the need for invasive surgery. GAE has a unique mechanism of pain relief compared with steroid injections or nerve blocks.
Genicular Artery
Who Can Benefit from GAE?
GAE is ideal for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain due to severe arthritis, especially those who have not found relief through traditional treatments such as pain medications, steroid injections, or physical therapy. It is also an excellent alternative for patients who are not yet ready for or eligible for total knee replacement surgery.
Dr. Alterman emphasizes the importance of this treatment option, noting,
“Many of our patients come to us after exhausting all other options. GAE offers a minimally invasive approach that helps them regain mobility and improve their quality of life.”
Clinical studies indicate that up to 85% of patients experience significant pain relief lasting between one to three years following the procedure.
The Benefits of GAE
Minimally Invasive: No surgical incisions, no extensive recovery time, and minimal risk of complications.
Precise Targeting: GAE directly addresses the source of knee pain by reducing inflammation at its root cause.
Outpatient Procedure: Patients return home the same day, making recovery fast and convenient.
Reduced Pain & Inflammation
: Significant pain reduction and improved mobility lasting up to 1-3 years enhance overall quality of life.
Experience Advanced Care at the Vascular Institute
The Vascular Institute is the largest group of board-certified vascular surgeons in the MidSouth, specializing in both minimally invasive procedures and open surgery. Founded by Dr. Anton Dias Perera and Dr. Prateek Gupta, the practice has grown to include four board-certified vascular surgeons, six nurse practitioners, and 11 locations across Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas.
For more information about GAE or to schedule a consultation, visit their website at www.vvisouth.com or contact them directly at 901-390-2930.
OXFORDCOMMONS
SPINE
Q&A CARE WITH DR. ROBERT INGRAHAM
Robert Ingraham, MD is a neurosurgeon at Oxford Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, the orthopedic team physicians for Ole Miss and Delta State Athletics. He treats all types of neck and back issues and is currently accepting new patients.
What is your background?
I graduated from Ole Miss with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Afterwards, I went to Tulane University for Medical School, and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences for a Neurosurgery residency. I completed my education with a Research Fellowship in Biomaterials with the Tulane Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. I have been in practice over 20 years now.
What type of patients do you see?
I treat a lot of folks with back issues, from herniated discs to those with chronic pain or conditions like spinal stenosis.
When do I need to see a specialist for my neck and/or back issues?
If you’ve got pain that doesn’t go away with rest or basic remedies, or if you’re experiencing symptoms like numbness or weakness, it’s time to see a specialist. If it’s affecting your daily life, don’t wait.
What are things I can do now to prevent future spine problems?
Keep moving! Core exercises and stretching are your friends. Also, maintaining good posture and not
smoking can do wonders for your spine.
Is looking down at my phone or sitting all day really that bad for my spine?
It can be pretty bad. Looking down at your phone strains your neck, and sitting all day isn’t much better for your back. Try to mix in some standing, walking, and eye-level screen time.
Are there treatment options other than spine surgery?
Yes, surgery is often a last resort. We start with things like physical therapy, medications, chiropractic care, or even acupuncture. Sometimes, just changing how you sit or sleep can help a lot.
What do you wish the Oxford community knew about spine health?
I wish people knew that your spine is the unsung hero of your body - it needs care and attention. Back pain isn’t something to endure; early action, good habits, and regular checkups can keep it in top shape.
WHEN TO SEEK CARE & HOW TO STAY HEALTHY
Best Health Practices Courtesy of Oxford Urgent Care
Making
informed decisions about your health starts with knowing when to seek urgent care and how to prevent illness.
Keep your family healthy year-round.
Know When to Seek Urgent Care vs. Emergency Care
Understanding where to go for treatment can save time and ensure proper care. Visit urgent care for:
• Cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms
• Cuts, Bruises & Burns
• Physical Exams
• On-site Lab, EKG, X-RAY
• Ear & Urinary tract infections
• Foreign body removal
For severe symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or major trauma, always go to the emergency room.
Prioritize Preventative Care
Many urgent care visits can be avoided with good preventive habits.
• Stay up to date on vaccinations (flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, tetanus, etc.).
• Wash hands frequently to prevent infections
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to strengthen your immune system.
Manage Minor Injuries At Home
For cuts and burns:
• Wash with soap and water.
• Apply antibiotic ointment and bandage.
• See a doctor if deep, infected, or not healing. For sprains and strains:
• R.I.C.E. - Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate
• Take pain relievers if needed.
• If pain or swelling persists, visit urgent care.
Stay Hydrated & Well Rested
Dehydration and lack of sleep can weaken your immune system.
• Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily
• Adults should get 7–9 hours of sleep per night
• Reduce caffeine and screen time before bed
Fight Off Allergy & Flu Season
Allergies and seasonal illnesses spike during certain months.
• Take allergy medications before symptoms start.
• Wear a mask or avoid peak pollen times
• Get an annual flu shot to reduce risk.
Act Quickly
If you feel symptoms of a cold, flu, or stomach virus, early intervention can prevent worsening.
• Stay hydrated and rest.
• Use over-the-counter remedies for symptom relief.
• Seek urgent care if symptoms persist.
Get Tested
Urgent care facilities can quickly test for:
• Strep throat
• COVID-19 and flu
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
If you experience persistent fever, sore throat, pain, or unusual symptoms, don’t wait—early testing can speed up recovery.
Urgent care facilities are here when you need fast, reliable treatment—but small lifestyle changes can prevent many common health issues. Prioritize prevention, know when to seek care, and take steps to support your overall well-being.
Pediatrician-Approved Advice For Growing
HAPPY HEALTHY THRIVINGKIDS HEALTHY THRIVING KIDS
Whenit comes to raising happy, healthy children, parents often find themselves juggling countless questions and concerns. To help navigate the journey, the doctors from The Children’s Clinic of Oxford, long-time trusted pediatricians, share expert advice on key aspects of child health and wellbeing.
Building Strong Immunity: A healthy immune system starts with good nutrition, regular sleep, and physical activity. Dr. Paula Akers emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. “Foods high in vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics can help keep your child’s immune system strong,” they say. Staying up to date with vaccinations is also crucial in preventing serious illnesses.
Encouraging Healthy Sleep Habits: Sleep plays a vital role in a child’s growth and development. According to Dr. Joe Harris, “Toddlers need about 11-14 hours of sleep per day, while schoolaged children should aim for 9-12 hours.” To promote better sleep, establish a
consistent bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, and create a calm sleeping environment.
Managing Common
Illnesses:
Colds, fevers, and stomach bugs are part of childhood, but knowing when to see a doctor is key.
“A fever under 100.4°F in an otherwise active child can usually be managed at home with rest and hydration,” says Dr. Akers. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or include trouble breathing or dehydration, seek medical attention.
Promoting Mental & Emotional Well-Being: Children’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. Dr. Harris encourages parents to create a supportive environment where kids feel comfortable expressing their emotions.
“Listen to their concerns, validate their feelings, and teach them coping strategies like journaling or deep breathing.”
Encouraging outdoor play, social interaction, and hobbies also helps build resilience.
Screen Time and Technology Balance: As digital devices become a part of daily life, setting limits is essential.
“For children aged 2-5, screen time should be limited to one hour per day of high-quality programminn,” says Dr. Akers.
“Older kids should balance screen use with physical activity, homework, and family time.”
Set boundaries by creating tech-free zones, especially at the dinner table and bedtime.
Encouraging An Active Lifestyle: Regular physical activity is essential for a child’s physical and mental health. “Aim for at least 60 minutes of active play each day,” suggests Dr. Harris. Whether it’s biking, dancing, or playing sports, movement helps with motor skills, confidence, and emotional well-being.
Teaching Healthy Eating Habits Early: Children develop lifelong eating habits in their early years. “Offer a variety of nutritious foods and encourage kids to listen to their hunger and fullness cues,” says Akers. Avoid using food as a reward and involve children in meal prep to make healthy eating fun.
Sun Safety and Skin Protection:Protecting children from harmful UV rays is essential for preventing skin damage. Dr. Harris advises, “Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, have kids wear hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours.” Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.
The Importance of Hydration: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and poor concentration. “Encourage kids to drink water throughout the day, especially during outdoor play or sports,” says Akers. Infuse water with fruits or herbs to make it more appealing. Avoid sugary drinks and sodas.
Fostering Positive Social Connections: Healthy relationships contribute to emotional well-being.
“Encourage friendships and teach empathy, kindness, and conflict resolution,” says Dr.Harris.
Participating in group activities, like team sports or community programs, helps build social skills.
Developing Good Hygiene Habits: Teaching kids proper hygiene from an early age helps prevent illness. “Make handwashing a regular habit, especially before meals and after using the restroom,” says Akers. Encourage daily bathing, brushing teeth twice a day, and keeping nails clean to reduce the spread of germs.
Raising a healthy child is a journey that requires patience, knowledge, and support. By following these expert tips, parents can create a nurturing environment that promotes lifelong well-being.
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