Hailey Waldo
Reporter@greenepublishing.com
Madison County Memorial Hospital (MCMH) opened its doors to the community on Thursday, June 25 for a special meet-and-greet honoring its incoming Chief Executive Officer and new primary care physician, Dr. Driggers, MD, PhD, FAAFP. The event, held in the hospital’s front lobby, offered residents an early opportunity to welcome him before he officially begins his role on Wednesday, July 1.
The community filled the lobby at 224 NW Crane Ave., enjoying light refreshments while introducing themselves to the physician who will soon help lead and provide care at one of Madison County’s most essential healthcare facilities.
Dr. Driggers brings extensive academic, clinical and leadership experience to the position. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in 2001 after completing his PhD in Cell Biology at the same institution. Dr. Driggers later completed his Family Practice Residency at Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach, Fla. His educational background also included a Bachelor of Science degree from Valdosta State University and an associate degree from North Florida Community College.
He is a board-certified family physician and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), a distinction recognizing physicians who demonstrate long-term dedication to excellence in patient care, professional development and service to their communities.
In addition to his clinical training, Dr. Driggers has served in academic medicine since 2022, holding an Associate Professor Position with the Florida State University (FSU) College of Medicine. He also served as a Family Medicine Clerkship Director for the FSU Daytona campus, helping train and mentor future physicians.
Chief Executive Officer Tammy Stevens noted that his arrival comes at a critical time for rural healthcare. “One of the most important things about a rural hospital is making sure the town has good access to quality primary care,” Stevens shared. “Recruiting family physicians in rural communities has become increasingly difficult, which makes this especially meaningful for Madison County.”
Dr. Driggers’ connection to the region also played a role in his decision to join MCMH. He has deep roots in the area and a long-standing familiarity with rural healthcare needs. His professional relationship with local healthcare provider Julia Weeks, M.D., who was recruited in 2023, helped strengthen his ties to the community. He noted that their friendship and shared commitment to rural medicine were key influences in his decision.
During the event, Dr. Driggers expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from residents and staff. “I hope I can serve you all well,” he said.
The meet-and-greet concluded with a strong turnout, as residents continued speaking with staff and physicians well after the formal presentation ended. The lobby remained full of conversation, handshakes and welcome introductions.