Phoebe hires new physicians during National Primary Care Week
Special Photo: Phoebe
Staff Reports
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ALBANY – Phoebe Physicians recently added four new physicians to its team of primary care providers who serve patients throughout southwest Georgia. Two of the new primary care doctors are recent graduates of the Phoebe Family Medicine Residency.
Dr. Uchechi Aguwa, practicing at Phoebe Primary Care at Meredyth, is board-certified in family medicine. She completed her medical degree at the College of Medicine University of Nigeria and practiced in her home country before continuing her education in the U.S. and graduating from the Phoebe Family Medicine Residency.
Dr. Karen Campbell, practicing at Phoebe Primary Care of Albany, is an internal medicine specialist. She earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University and completed her residency at the Tinsley-Harrison Internal Medicine Residency Program at the University of Alabama-Birmingham.
Dr. Shivan Patel, practicing at Phoebe Worth Family Medicine, is board-certified in family medicine. He obtained his medical degree from St. George University School of Medicine and completed his residency at Phoebe Family Medicine Residency.
Dr. Kayla Suma, serving at Phoebe Primary Care at Northwest, is board-certified in family medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine.
The addition of these physicians is part of Phoebe’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality primary care and ensuring patients receive routine checkups, manage chronic illnesses and get the preventive care they need.
“Primary care physicians are essential in guiding patients to make informed decisions about their health,” Dr. Estrellita Redmon, the president of Phoebe Physicians, said in a news release. “They help identify potential risks early on, allowing for better outcomes in the long run. At Phoebe, we are committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the best primary care, with a focus on prevention and overall well-being.”
Oct. 8-12 was National Primary Care Week, a time to highlight the critical role primary care physicians play in maintaining the health and well-being of a community. The week serves as a reminder of the importance of regular checkups, health screenings, and early intervention to prevent chronic diseases and promote long-term wellness.
“Primary care is not just about treating illness, but about helping individuals stay healthy through prevention and ongoing care,” Phoebe Physicians Medical Director for Primary Care Dr. Derek Heard said. “When you have a strong relationship with your primary care doctor, you’re much more likely to catch potential health issues early, which can save lives. At Phoebe, we encourage everyone in our community to schedule their annual checkups and make their health a priority this National Primary Care Week,” said Derek Heard, MD, .
Regular visits to a primary care physician are essential for early detection and management of health issues such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. In addition to diagnosing and treating illnesses, primary care doctors focus on preventive care, guiding patients through immunizations, screenings and lifestyle changes that can improve overall health.
To support the community’s health, Phoebe offers a wide range of primary care services across multiple locations, making it easier for patients to access the care they need close to home. Patients can find a primary care physician and schedule an appointment by visiting www.choosephoebe.com.



