Top photo: Dr. Benjamin J. Cluff

Lower Photo: Dr. Algele C. Sumalong

The HMS Family Medicine Residency Program is proud to announce the graduation of the Class of 2015 on Saturday, June 27th. Dr. Benjamin J. Cluff and Dr. Algele C. Sumulong represent the inaugural class of physicians graduating from the program. This program is designed in partnership with Gila Regional Medical Center and the University of New Mexico to offer top quality educational experiences that are sensitive to the unique multi-cultural environment of New Mexico while exceeding the standards of quality care and professionalism. Dr. Sumulong stated, "It has been a joy and privilege to have completed another chapter in my medical training as a physician in Silver City through HMS. Working alongside well versed providers and a grateful community has been a blessing. Our deepest thanks for letting us care for you."

The HMS Family Medicine Residency Program became accredited in May of 2013 by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), the governing body of Family Medicine resident education. These resident physicians have received medical education in various specialties related to Family Medicine throughout Grant and Hidalgo County. Over 30 community specialists have devoted their time to training Drs. Cluff and Sumulong. The primary training partner, Gila Regional Medical Center, welcomes the program's physicians for inpatient training throughout the two-year experience. Dan Otero, GRMC Chief Administrative Officer, stated "I commend our healthcare leaders for successfully collaborating on such an important education program that produces high-quality physicians, such as Dr. Cluff and Dr. Sumulong. This effort demonstrates the commitment of our healthcare system to provide the best care and services possible to our rural community now and in the future." This program is the first of its kind in this region. Each year, the program will graduate two resident physicians who are qualified to enter independent practice. Dr. Darrick Nelson, Program Director / CMO stated, "This rural Family Medicine Residency training program would never have been possible if not for our strong and healthy partnerships with GRMC and our community of specialty physicians. The existence and acceptance of this residency program is clear evidence of our community's proactive approach toward reducing our State's shortages of Primary Care physicians. Here forward we will graduate two well- trained Family Physicians annually. These graduates will be incredibly skilled and competent at delivering quality primary care in rural and frontier communities."

Guest speakers at the graduation commencement include: Senator Howie Morales, Representative Dianne Hamilton, Charlie Alfero, Executive Director of the Center for Health Innovation/ DIO, Brian Cunningham, GRMC Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Darrick Nelson, Residency Program Director/ HMS Chief Medical Officer and Harriet Brandstetter, HMS Chief Executive Officer.