Jeremy Hensley
“If you’re looking to become a family medicine doctor and practice a large scope of medicine while getting a variety of experience, the Rural Family Medicine program is a great place for you.”
A car accident at age 16 changed the life of Jeremy Hensley, M.D., by inspiring him to become a physician following his time in the hospital and throughout his recovery.
Dr. Hensley, a second-year resident in the Rural Family Medicine Residency Program at WVU School of Medicine’s Eastern Campus, said that his family physician was a source of inspiration to him during his recovery from the accident.
“The care and attention I received from various doctors made me realize what an incredible impact a person could have on other people’s lives through a career in medicine,” Hensley said. “Years later, I found that the Rural Family Medicine program is the perfect place to do just that.”
During his residency training, Hensley has had the opportunity to develop the same “small-town doctor-patient relationship” with his patients that he received from his physicians throughout his life. He noted that both the location of the program and the people involved come together to facilitate an atmosphere that encourages these types of relationships.
When it comes to his patients, Hensley said he admires that the program puts him in a position to help people who may have a greater need for care due to the geographical limitations that come with living in more rural areas.
“I practice in a region where if I don’t help somebody, they might not be able to get help nearby. I get the opportunity to directly help with tasks that I might otherwise just get to observe in a different residency program,” Hensley said. “Rural Family Medicine provides residents with an interesting opportunity to go above and beyond, and develop a more intimate connection with patients.”
Hensley noted that the experiences he’s had helping patients throughout his training have helped make him a better doctor.
“Every single day that you work here, you get experience that is so necessary to forming your foundations as a physician,” Hensley said. “If you’re looking to become a family medicine doctor and practice a large scope of medicine while getting a variety of experience, the Rural Family Medicine program is a great place for you.”