Posts by Jeff Arrington
The Kind Eyes of a Healer: Dr. Richard Rutland’s Legacy of Compassion
Some people are remembered for their grand pronouncements, others for a single, defining achievement. But for anyone who ever sat in his exam room, the legacy of Dr. Richard Oliver Rutland Jr. began with his eyes. They were kind eyes, the sort that seemed to look past the symptoms on a chart and see the…
Read MoreResidents Encouraged to Apply for $1,000 Scholarship
The Alabama Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) is seeking resident members of its organization to apply for the Stan Brasfield Memorial Scholarship. The family of the late Dr. Brasfield created the scholarship fund to honor his memory. It is to be given annually to a first, second, or third-year resident who meets certain criteria. Dr.…
Read MoreObesity with Dr. Jonathan D. Parker
On our new episode, Dr. Brittney Anderson and Dr. Jonathan D. Parker tackle the hype around new weight-loss medications. They discuss the real story behind Alabama’s obesity epidemic, why a holistic approach is non-negotiable, and how family doctors are helping patients overcome barriers to build lasting health.
Read MorePhysician Leaders Meet with House Rural Caucus to Champion Key Healthcare Priorities
The Alabama Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the Medical Association of the State of Alabama (MASA) held a collaborative dinner meeting with the House of Representatives Rural Caucus Steering Committee on February 3, 2026. The productive evening, also attended by members of House committee…
Read MoreAAFP Annual Meeting Student Stipend Opportunity
Attend Alabama Chapter AAFP Annual Meeting at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort 📅 Dates: June 25-28, 2026📍 Location: Miramar Beach, FL Sponsored by Alabama Academy of Family Physicians FoundationFunded by the Alabama Family Practice Rural Health Board Purpose The Alabama Academy of Family Physicians is offering stipends to enhance the ability of AAFP student members to attend the 2026 annual meeting.…
Read More2026 Legislative Session in Full Swing
The current Alabama legislative session is in full swing, and your Academy is actively engaged on multiple fronts, advocating for policies that support family physicians and protect patient care. This year’s slate of proposed legislation is extensive, touching on everything from crucial cancer screenings and rural healthcare access to scope of practice and the emerging…
Read MoreCelebrating a Successful Fall Forum
What an incredible weekend we had at the Alabama Academy of Family Physicians Fall Forum! The Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel & Conference Center was buzzing with energy as we gathered for a fantastic event filled with learning and fellowship. Saturday was a whirlwind of clinical updates, with engaging sessions covering a vast range of topics…
Read MoreMedicare Physician Fee Schedule Podcast
Join Alabama AFP President Dr. Tate Hinkle and AAFP Senior Manager of Federal Policy and Regulatory Affairs Kate Gilliard as they break down the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. Why does it matter, and how does it impact family physicians in Alabama and across the nation? Don’t miss this insightful conversation—tune in now!
Read MoreBlue Cross and Blue Shield Provider Settlement Update
By Robert B. Roden, Esq. On August 19, 2025, Judge Proctor in the Northern District of Alabama granted final approval of the $2.8 billion Blue Cross and Blue Shield healthcare Providers’ settlement, marking a historic milestone as the largest antitrust settlement in U.S. healthcare history. This order ends a 13-year legal battle that began in 2012, when…
Read MorePrivate Practice with Dr. Brittney Anderson
Medical student Kaitlyn Riggins and resident physician Dr. Chelsey Deloney sit down with Dr. Brittney Anderson, a dedicated family medicine physician and private practice owner in Demopolis, Alabama. Join us as Dr. Anderson shares her journey of building a thriving practice from the ground up. From navigating loans and managing student debt to exploring diverse…
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