Arkansas Academy-Family Physicians

The Arkansas Academy of Family Physicians is a state chapter of the American Academy of Family Physicians, representing over 1,450 physicians, residents, and students. Our mission is to support and advance the specialty of family medicine to improve the health and well-being of all Arkansans. As the largest medical specialty organization in the state, we strive to provide advocacy, education, development, research, and leadership for the specialty of family medicine.

Our Purpose

Our purpose is multifaceted, focusing on providing advocacy and education to patients and the public in all health-related matters. We aim to preserve and promote quality, cost-effective healthcare, promote the science and art of family medicine, and ensure an optimal supply of well-trained family physicians. Additionally, we advocate for the preservation of the right of family physicians to engage in medical and surgical procedures for which they are qualified by training and experience.

Our Team

Our team is dedicated to serving our members and fulfilling our mission. Our executive director, Mary Beth Rogers, and advocacy manager, Michelle Hegwood, work closely with our board of directors to achieve our goals. Our team is committed to providing our members with the tools they need to succeed, including networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy representation.

Advocacy

As one of the most active statewide professional organizations, we advocate for primary care as the cornerstone of our healthcare system. Our advocacy efforts focus on key issues, including payment reform, administrative burden, scope of practice, rural healthcare, and healthcare reform. We work closely with our members and partnering organizations to make a positive impact on state and federal healthcare policy.

Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors is comprised of physicians from across the great state of Arkansas. Board members are elected annually during our membership meeting held during the Scientific Assembly. Our board meets quarterly to discuss Arkansas medical news, legislative happenings, and membership-related items. We take pride in having a board that regularly consists of some of the most influential and seasoned medical professionals in the state.

2023-2024 Officers

Our current officers include:

• President: Leslye McGrath, M.D., FAAFP (Paragould)
• President-Elect: Nicole Lawson-Rounds, M.D. (Newport)
• Vice President: Justin Voris, M.D. (Fort Smith)
• Secretary-Treasurer: Sherri Diamond, M.D. (Sherwood)
• Immediate Past President: Tasha Starks, M.D. (Jonesboro)
• Delegate: Lonnie Robinson, M.D., FAAFP (Mountain Home)
• Alternate Delegate: Daniel Knight, M.D., FAAFP (Bryant)