University Hospital first in Alabama to adopt new diagnostic tool for sepsis

Edward A. Panacek, M.D., MPH, co-authored a

manuscript on the clinical validation of the

TriVerity test for sepsis.

By Lindsay Hughes

USA Health University Hospital is the first and only hospital in Alabama to implement a breakthrough blood test that helps emergency clinicians rapidly identify and treat sepsis and other acute infections with unprecedented accuracy.

Sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s extreme response to infection, affects more than 1.7 million people in the United States each year. Early detection and treatment are crucial.

The TriVerity Test System, developed by California-based Inflammatix, measures the body’s immune response to infection using a small blood sample. Within about 30 minutes, artificial intelligence algorithms analyze biomarkers to distinguish between bacterial and viral infections and non-infectious inflammation, while also predicting illness severity in patients with suspected infection or sepsis. The rapid test enables physicians to make faster, more confident treatment decisions — improving patient outcomes and reducing unnecessary use of antibiotics and hospital resources.

University Hospital played a pivotal role in validating the new test as one of 22 emergency departments in the United States and Europe to participate in the SEPSIS-SHIELD study. Across more than 1,200 patients, the study demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, confirming the test’s reliability in real-world clinical settings. Based on these findings, TriVerity received clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in January 2025.

Study results were published in Nature Medicine, a high-impact, peer-reviewed journal, in a series of three manuscripts in September 2025. Edward A. Panacek, M.D., MPH, professor and chair of emergency medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, is co-author of the manuscript “Clinical validation of an AI-based blood testing device for diagnosis and prognosis of acute infection and sepsis.”

“This test is a gamechanger in the ER evaluation of potential sepsis patients,” Panacek said. “For the first time, we have a tool that can both improve patient care and reduce costs. Physicians can now use a simple blood test like TriVerity to identify which patients with sepsis need aggressive therapy and which might be harmed by it.”

The findings also suggest that drug companies can design smarter trials by targeting therapies to patients most likely to benefit, Panacek noted. “The results support a move away from the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to sepsis care and toward the adoption of precision medical care in the ER and ICU, a shift that can save lives worldwide,” he said.

Jordan Sahawneh, RN, demonstrates the

TriVerity test at University Hospital. 

Josh Snow, MSHA, chief executive officer of University Hospital, said the hospital’s participation in the clinical study and early adoption of the TriVerity test underscore USA Health’s commitment to improving outcomes for patients and their families.

“Being the first hospital in Alabama to implement this groundbreaking diagnostic tool reflects our dedication to advancing patient care through innovation,” Snow said. “Early and accurate detection of sepsis saves lives, and this technology gives our clinicians the insight they need to act quickly and confidently.”

Kristen Noles, DNP, CNL, director of quality and performance improvement for USA Health, said the new technology reflects the health system’s ongoing efforts to combine innovation with compassionate care.

“Innovation means the most when it transforms how we care for people in their most vulnerable moments, with speed, accuracy and compassion,” Noles said. “This innovation not only transforms how quickly we can diagnose and treat sepsis but also helps us identify patients who can safely recover at home. By reducing unnecessary hospital stays, we create capacity to care for others in need — extending our mission of healing to even more patients and families."

Learn more about Inflammatix and the TriVerity Test System at inflammatix.com.

Internal medicine resident presents at international nephrology conference

Ekta Khubchandani, M.D.

By Michelle Ryan-Day

Ekta Khubchandani, M.D., a third-year internal medicine resident at USA Health, recently presented a research poster at the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) Kidney Week 2025 in Houston.  

Her case report focused on a rare kidney disorder, C1q nephropathy, which typically appears in childhood or early adulthood but can sometimes manifest during pregnancy. The presentation described a 41-year-old patient who developed edema, high blood pressure, and proteinuria in the second trimester, later complicated by fetal growth restriction and intrauterine fetal demise.   

The case underscores the importance of early recognition and management of unusual renal diseases during pregnancy to reduce maternal and fetal complications.  

“ASN 2025 marked my first international conference, where I had the opportunity to present my poster on C1q nephropathy in a pregnant woman,” Khubchandani said. “The event was buzzing with innovation, energy, and collaboration — truly inspiring to see how far nephrology has progressed. With so many ongoing studies and groundbreaking trials, I’m hopeful for a future where kidney diseases become not just manageable, but curable.”  

Kidney Week, hosted by the American Society of Nephrology, is one of the largest gatherings of kidney professionals in the world, bringing together experts and trainees to share the latest research and clinical advances.  

To learn more about the event, visit ASN Kidney Week 2025.  

Plash shares insight on wilderness medicine education

The wilderness medicine elective provides hands-on learning opportunities for students in resource-limited natural environments.  

Walker Plash, M.D.

Walker Plash, M.D., an ardent outdoorsman and associate professor of emergency medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, recently shared his expertise in the latest edition of Wilderness Medicine Magazine.

Plash serves as associate director of the Department of Emergency Medicine’s Wilderness Medicine Program and co-director of the wilderness medicine elective for senior medical students. A Fellow of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine, Plash is an expert in plant and animal toxins, particularly copperhead envenomation. An avid camper, backpacker and paddler, he also has a special interest in injuries related to canoeing and kayaking.

In the online publication of the Wilderness Medical Society, Plash co-authored an article titled “Starting a Wilderness Medicine Student Elective: A Step-by-Step Guide.” The piece covers topics such as curriculum design, core content, teaching and evaluation methods, funding and recruitment.

Students carry a fallen 'hiker' during a 

simulation in the wilderness. 

One of the article’s key recommendations is to “add your unique flavor” when developing a wilderness medicine program, highlighting the natural features, experiences and faculty expertise that set each institution apart. At the University of South Alabama, that means leveraging the distinctive environment of the Gulf Coast and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. 

Through hands-on wilderness learning opportunities, the program aims to equip future doctors with the skills they need to respond to natural disasters, search-and-rescue operations, and humanitarian crises.

Learn more about the Wilderness Medicine Program. 

USA Health resident presents at national cardiology conference

Pavel Hurtado Cabrera, M.D., presents at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions.

By Michelle Ryan-Day

Pavel Hurtado Cabrera, M.D., a second-year internal medicine resident at USA Health, recently presented his research at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions, held this month in New Orleans.  

The annual conference brings together thousands of cardiovascular professionals from around the world to share leading-edge research and clinical advancements in heart and vascular care. USA Health’s internal medicine faculty also had a presence at the national meeting, including Angel Gonzalez Rodriguez, M.D., a hospitalist and assistant professor of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, who participated remotely.  

Hurtado presented a clinical case study titled, “Pulmonary Embolism Presenting with Classical S1Q3T3 Pattern on Electrocardiogram: Implications for Hemodynamic Instability,” developed in collaboration with colleagues from Larkin Community Hospital and the University of South Alabama.  

The presentation highlighted a case of acute pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot obstructing the pulmonary arteries. The research emphasized the diagnostic and prognostic significance of the S1Q3T3 electrocardiographic pattern, traditionally associated with right heart strain and hemodynamic instability.   

Using ECG tracings and CT imaging, Hurtado and his co-authors illustrated the importance of early recognition and intervention in improving patient outcomes.  

“I was honored to take part in the AHA Scientific Sessions, an incredible opportunity to learn, connect, and grow professionally,” Hurtado said.  

Participation in national conferences such as the AHA Scientific Sessions highlights USA Health’s commitment to advancing academic medicine and fostering professional development among its residents and faculty.  

To learn more about the event, visit AHA Scientific Sessions.  

Grelet honored by international society for ‘groundbreaking’ work in mitochondrial biology

Simon Grelet, Ph.D., presents his research at the World Mitochondria Society conference in Berlin.

By Carol McPhail

Cancer researcher Simon Grelet, Ph.D., has been honored by the World Mitochondria Society for achieving the year’s most significant scientific advance in the field of mitochondrial biology. 

Grelet, an assistant professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, was awarded the Best Scientific Contribution Award 2025 for his research on nerve-to-cancer mitochondria transfer. He presented his work and served as a session co-chair at the society’s conference Oct. 22-24 in Berlin. 

In announcing the award, the society called Grelet’s presentation “groundbreaking.” 

“This award celebrates not only scientific excellence but also the spirit of dynamic mitochondrial medicine connecting metabolism, communication, and therapy,” the society said in its announcement. “Dr. Simon Grelet’s discovery redefines how we understand mitochondria not as static powerhouses, but as mobile organelles shaping cancer evolution and system health.” 

In his presentation, “Nerve-to-Cancer Mitochondrial Transfer: A Key Driver of Metastasis,” Grelet revealed a transformative mechanism by which neurons transfer their mitochondria to cancer cells, fueling their metabolic flexibility and metastatic potential. His team utilized advanced in vivo and in vitro models and the MitoTRACER genetic system they have designed to trace the fate of cancer cells that acquired neuronal mitochondria, discovering that these cells are more likely to succeed in forming distant metastasis. The findings were published earlier this year in the scientific journal Nature. 

“This work uncovers a new and profound biological dialogue between the nervous system and cancer,” the society said. 

Grelet, whose research has attracted global attention, is a recipient of the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute MERIT Award and the recent recipient of the 2025 Mayer Mitchell Award for Excellence in Cancer Research at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. Grelet is also lead inventor on a U.S. patent application describing methods to track mitochondria transfer between cells. 

“This award is a fitting recognition of Dr. Grelet’s exceptional achievements and clear affirmation of the international impact of his research,” said Christopher Davies, Ph.D., associate dean for research at the Whiddon College of Medicine. “With his group’s recent Nature publication, his NIH MERIT award and the Mayer Mitchell Award, it’s been a remarkable year for Dr. Grelet – and one that sets the stage for even greater discoveries ahead.” 

Medical students present complex cases at national anesthesiology meeting

Noel Godang, Katharine Lightfoot and Chase Smith

Three Whiddon College of Medicine students presented complex cases at the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) annual meeting held Oct. 16-20 in San Antonio, Texas. 

Noel Godang and Katharine Lightfoot, both third-year medical students, and fourth-year medical student Chase Smith shared cases that highlighted the critical thinking and teamwork essential in the field of anesthesiology. They collaborated with USA Health anesthesiologist Karthik Swamy, M.D., on the presentations.

“One highlight for me was attending several seminars and hands-on demos, where I saw new airway management devices, ultrasound-guided nerve block techniques, and new monitoring technologies that may become part of the standard of care in the future,” Godang said.

“I found it exciting to meet anesthesiologists from across the country and internationally to see, firsthand, how the field is constantly evolving,” Godang added. “It was a uniquely rewarding experience presenting at the ASA conference because it gave me a chance to learn from experts, which really helped me grow both academically and professionally.”

“ASA was a wonderful experience!” Lightfoot said. “I was thankful to have the opportunity to present an important case and learn from many other presenters, faculty, residents and students. There was an incredible amount of programming that helped us tailor our learning to things that most interested us as well as education surrounding things like residency programs and the Match process.” 

Lightfoot expressed her appreciation to the Office of Student Affairs and the Department of Anesthesiology for their support and mentorship. 

“Presenting our medically challenging case at ASA 2025 was an incredible learning experience,” Smith said. “It allowed me to engage with experts in anesthesia, gaining valuable feedback in managing intraoperative crises. I also enjoyed the opportunity to discuss our case with colleagues and learn from the presentations of others.” 

Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists is an educational, research and scientific society with more than 59,000 members organized to advance the medical practice of anesthesiology and secure its future. 

Roadmap to Residency prepares Class of 2027 for next steps

Third-year medical students are looking ahead to the residency application process.

By Lindsay Hughes

As medical students in the Class of 2027 look forward to the next milestone in their training, the Whiddon College of Medicine Office of Student Affairs is helping them prepare every step of the way through its new Roadmap to Residency series.

Designed to guide students from early planning through application season, the series includes a sequence of meetings and one-on-one advising sessions running from fall through spring. By starting early, the Office of Student Affairs aims to help students navigate the many elements of the residency process with confidence and clarity before the application season officially opens in fall 2026.

“The process of transition to residency begins way before finding out where one has matched, and it is a critical period that often leaves medical students with high levels of anxiety,” said Laventrice Ridgeway, Ed.D., associate dean for student affairs at the Whiddon College of Medicine. “With the Roadmap to Residency program, we saw an opportunity to explore the most impactful timeframe for fourth-year preparation and to intentionally offer the essential tools and information students would need to confidently approach the annual residency application cycle, hopefully demystifying the process and easing some of the angst that can result.”

The first session in the series, held in late October, introduced M3s to what they can expect in 2026, covering essential topics like planning and budgeting. Future meetings will dive deeper into areas such as career selection, away rotations, personal statements, and letters of recommendation, ensuring that students stay on track as they progress through each stage of the journey.

The series is a collaborative effort, bringing together expertise from multiple offices within and beyond the College of Medicine, including Financial Aid, Student Records, Health and Wellness, and Career Services. In late June 2026, the Office of Student Affairs will cap off the program with workshops, open office hours, individual meetings, and mock interviews designed to help students refine their skills before application season begins.

While third-year students begin their preparations, the Office of Student Affairs remains deeply engaged with students in the Class of 2026, who are currently navigating this year’s residency application cycle. The team continues to provide essential support services for M4s, including interview preparation, final mock interviews, guidance on communications such as post-interview follow-ups, and counseling as they prepare for the critical process of submitting their final rank order lists for The Match. 

USA Health Skull Base Team under the leadership of Dr. Thakur delivers 14 presentations at the joint North American Skull Base Society – World Congress of Skull Base Society Meeting 2025

The USA Health skull base neurosurgery team led by Jai Thakur, M.D., FAANS, and including advanced practice providers, fellows and medical students, delivered a total of 14 scientific paper presentations – including 11 oral presentations and three poster presentations – during the joint North American Skull Base Society (NASBS) and World Congress of Skull Base Society Meeting 2025 held in New Orleans.   

Thakur, who is the chief of minimally invasive cranial and skull base neurosurgery at USA Health and an associate professor at USA’s Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, presented 11 oral presentations at the conference. He was invited to present 10 of his complex skull base neurosurgical videos selected through a peer-review process for the meeting. Among them was a surgical video selected to be presented as the meeting's best video session. (Figure 1) 

“It was a true honor for my team and me to be selected from more than 800 speakers as one of the top six skull base neurosurgeons worldwide, and to highlight our surgical techniques from operating at USA Health at this premier best surgical video session,” Thakur said. “It certainly is a team effort from everyone at our clinic, in our operating rooms and within the hospital, to ensure good outcomes in such complex scenarios.” 

Another unique surgical technique-based poster presented by Thakur’s fellow Mehdi Khaleghi, M.D., also received a distinction award. The poster presentation title was: Endoscopic Endonasal Transclival Transpetrosal Approach for Removal of Sphenopetroclival Chondrosarcoma: Technical Considerations.  

Figure 1: MRI of the surgical video selected to be presented as the meeting's best video session

In addition, Thakur was invited to teach a two-day cadaver course on supraorbital eye-brow skull base approaches, which was attended by neurosurgery residents and fellows from around the world.  

Here is the complete list of USA Health presentations. Additional information can be found in the Journal of Neurological Surgery. 

• "Value of Advanced Practice Providers in Fostering the Development of Elective Early Academic Skull Base Practice without Residents/Fellows in a Tertiary Academic Center: A Unified Skull Base" 
• "Quantitative Identification of the Supraorbital Nerve in Supraorbital Transciliary Keyhole Approach: Accuracy Analysis and Surgical Implication of the Medial Supraorbital Triangle" 
• "Endoscopic Endonasal Transcavernous Approach for Removal of Pituitary Macroadenoma with Apoplexy: Technical Nuances" 
• "A Large Ventral Cervico-Medullary Meningioma Resection: Juxtacondylar Far Lateral Approach with Technical Nuances on Dissection and Spinal Cord Rotation" 
• "Ventral C1-C2 Kissing Neurofibroma: Technical Nuances on Skull Base Approach and Bilateral Cord Rotation with Maximizing Safe Resection Corridors" 
• "Courthouses and Craniotomies: Medical Malpractice Indemnity Payments and Litigation Verdicts in Skull Base and Cerebrovascular Neurosurgical Practice in the 21st Century" 
• "What Does It Take to be a NASBS President: A Cross-Sectional Study of Attributes and Academic History of Presidents of the North American Skull Base Society" 
• "Extended Endoscopic Endonasal Approach with Odontoidectomy in a Patient Presenting with Unstable Pathological Type 2 Fracture, Retropharyngeal Abscess, and Cervical-Medullary Compression" 
• "Is Naso-Axial Line a Better Predictor in Endoscopic Endonasal Resection of the Odontoid and Pannus Removal? Technical Nuances of Maximizing Corridor and Maintaining Occipital Cervical Joint Stability" 
• "Combined Microscopic-Endoscopic Retrosigmoid Approach to Infra- and Supratentorial Posterior Fossa Epidermoid Tumor" 
• "Technical Considerations for the Resection of Large Sphenoid Wing Meningioma: Strategies and Vessel Handling" 
• "Retrosigmoid Suprameatal Transtentorial Approach for Petroclival Meningioma: Maximizing Retrosigmoid Corridor"
• "Tandem Clipping of Multiple Middle Cerebral Artery Aneurysms with Different Projection Angles" 
• "Endoscopic Endonasal Transclival Transpetrosal Approach for Removal of Sphenopetroclival Chondrosarcoma: Technical Considerations" 

About the North American Skull Base Society

The North American Skull Base Society brings together specialists to advance the care of patients with skull base disorders through education, innovation, and collaboration. Serving a multidisciplinary audience — including neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, head and neck surgeons, and others with interest in diseases involving the cranial base — NASBS provides innovative learning opportunities through its annual meeting, hands-on Practical Course in Skull Base Anatomy and Surgery, and online educational programs. The society fosters excellence in patient care and the scientific advancement of skull base treatment worldwide. 

a) Physician Assistant Ursula Hummel, Thakur, medical student Garrett Dyess, and skull base fellow Adnan Shahid, M.D. 

b) Ursula Hummel, PA-C, and Thakur with Neil Martin, M.D., neurosurgeon, who is famous for coining the Spetzler-Martin AVM Classification. Thakur spent time with him during his fellowship in Santa Monica, California, in 2020.  

c) Thakur presenting a complex clinical scenario encountered during his practice at USA Health. 

d) Poster presented by Khaleghi won the poster of distinction award.  

Ikeri selected to serve on national executive committee

Kelechi Ikeri, M.D.

By Casandra Andrews

USA Health neonatologist Kelechi Ikeri, M.D., has been selected to serve on the executive committee of the National Network of Perinatal Quality Collaboratives (NNPQC), a national organization dedicated to improving maternal and infant health outcomes.

An assistant professor of pediatrics at the Whiddon College of Medicine and a neonatologist at Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Ikeri will represent neonatologists on the committee for a two-year term through September 2027.

“Dr. Ikeri’s selection to the NNPQC Executive Committee is a tremendous honor — not only for him, but also for the University of South Alabama, USA Health and the entire state,” said Manimaran Ramani, M.D., MPH, MSHA, MSHQS, chief medical officer at Children’s & Women’s Hospital and chief of neonatology. “It reflects the caliber of leadership and expertise within our division, and we couldn’t be prouder to see one of our own contributing to national efforts to improve outcomes for mothers and babies.”

The NNPQC brings together perinatal quality collaboratives from across the U.S. to promote best practices and share data-driven strategies that improve outcomes for mothers and newborns. In announcing Ikeri’s selection, NNPQC leaders said his clinical experience and dedication to neonatal care will strengthen their national goals.

“We deeply value your voice and perspective and believe your participation would strengthen our collective efforts to advance perinatal health nationwide,” said Laura Sabino, project coordinator for the National Institute for Children's Health Quality.

The executive committee guides NNPQC’s mission by setting national priorities, advising on quality improvement initiatives, and supporting programs that help hospitals and health systems deliver the safest, highest-quality care possible for mothers and infants.

At Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Ikeri provides specialized care for premature and critically ill infants in the region’s only level III neonatal intensive care unit.

In 2024, Ikeri was chosen to serve as the neonatal physician lead for the Alabama Perinatal Quality Collaborative, a state perinatal program by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH). In that role, Ikeri works with the ADPH to implement, coordinate, and oversee perinatal quality improvement initiatives and address health equity across the state at 24 member hospitals. Ikeri earned a medical degree from the University of Lagos College of Medicine in Idi-Araba, in Lagos, Nigeria.

“Dr. Ikeri’s appointment underscores the growing national recognition of the expertise found within USA Health and the Whiddon College of Medicine,” said Benjamin Estrada, M.D., assistant dean for medical education, professor, and interim chair of pediatrics at USA Health. “His leadership at the national level will help ensure that the voices and experiences of clinicians in Alabama are represented in shaping policies that improve maternal and neonatal outcomes nationwide.”

Ikeri worked in hospitals in Nigeria and Tobago before moving to the United States in 2015. He completed a pediatrics residency at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Centre in Brooklyn, New York, in 2018, and completed a neonatal-perinatal medicine fellowship at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia in June 2021.

He is certified in general pediatrics and neonatology by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, and American College of Medical Quality.

Pediatric faculty and residents present at state conference

By Casandra Andrews 

Pediatric faculty members from the Whiddon College of Medicine and resident physicians at USA Health recently delivered several presentations and served on panels at the fall meeting of the Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AL-AAP) in Birmingham.  

Laxman Aryal, M.D.; Katie Williams, D.O.; and Kamal

Sharma, M.D. 

Kamal P. Sharma, M.D., FAAP, a pediatric critical care physician and associate professor of pediatrics, and Kari A. Bradham, D.O., a pediatrician at USA Health and an assistant professor of pediatrics, shared information with other pediatricians from around the state during the meeting. 

Sharma presented details about the overall management of a pediatric tracheostomy tube patient. “With tracheostomy tube placement and chronic ventilation becoming increasingly common in pediatric practice, it is essential for general pediatricians to be well-versed in the fundamentals of tracheostomy care,” Sharma said. “This includes understanding the indications, timing, and procedures for tracheostomy placement, expected duration of PICU stay, and post-discharge management considerations.”  

Beyond the technical aspects, tracheostomy care involves significant psychosocial challenges, he said, noting that families often face emotional and social stigma and may struggle with acceptance and readiness. In those circumstances, pediatricians who have built long relationships and trust with families can help in facilitating shared decision-making, providing emotional support, and coordinating multidisciplinary care. 

Bradham took part in an expert panel discussion on how to integrate early hearing detection into a pediatric practice that also included details on intervention for hearing issues as it relates to the primary care pediatrician in practice. 

Saswat Jha, M.D.; Benjamin Estrada, M.D.; and

LaDonna Crews, M.D.

The Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics leadership decided to include a forum at the fall meeting for medical students and residents to present their research, according to LaDonna Crews, M.D., associate professor of family medicine and adjunct associate professor of pediatrics. “This initiative provides trainees with professional development opportunities, including learning how to present at a medical meeting, networking, and collaborating with colleagues.” She noted that early involvement in a professional organization can offer lifelong resources throughout someone’s career. These meetings help providers expand knowledge in pediatrics, exchange ideas, and understand the importance of advocacy for the patients they serve, Crews said. 

Katie Williams, D.O., FAAP, a pediatric gastroenterologist at USA Health and assistant professor of pediatrics at the Whiddon College of Medicine, and several pediatric residents presented a clinical poster at the conference. Williams served as mentor and senior author on a poster presentation titled “Mononucleosis Masquerade: A Cautionary Tale in The Diagnosis of Pediatric Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis." “Immunosuppressing while a patient is acutely ill with a virus causing liver failure may seem counterintuitive, but this is the lifesaving treatment for HLH required for survival,” Williams said. “It was an interesting case, and the patient is doing very well and thriving.” 

Kamal Sharma, M.D.; Laxman Aryal, M.D.; Bijay

Shrestha, M.D.; Saswat Jha, M.D.

Pediatric residents who also presented at the meeting included Saswat Jha, M.D., Bijay Shrestha, M.D., and Laxman Aryal, M.D.  

The AL-AAP is a professional organization representing more than 1,000 pediatricians across the state. The group advocates for the health and well-being of Alabama’s infants, children, adolescents, and young adults through education, policy development, and community partnerships. In addition to supporting physicians through continuing medical education and clinical resources, the chapter works to influence public policy on issues such as immunizations, child safety, nutrition, and access to healthcare. 

Students present research and artwork at premier neurosurgery conference

From left, Asa Barnett, Garrett Dyess, Chip Ogles and Christian Cooper attend the CNS annual meeting.

Four medical students from the Whiddon College of Medicine — Chip Ogles, Garrett Dyess, Christian Cooper and Asa Barnett — recently showcased their work at the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) 75th Annual Meeting in Los Angeles. 

The 2025 meeting, themed “CNS Connects,” is the premier neurosurgical conference focused on fostering meaningful connections in an increasingly complex and diverse field. The students contributed to the conference through a range of poster presentations, oral presentations and artwork.

Garrett Dyess

Ogles presented a poster titled “Antibiotic-Impregnated Calcium Sulphate Beads in Spine Surgery: An Analysis of 61 Consecutive Patients.” His study evaluated the safety and efficacy of vancomycin and gentamicin–impregnated calcium sulphate beads in cervicothoracic spinal deformity surgery.

“Despite greater surgical complexity in the bead group, the results demonstrated that antibiotic beads were safe, showed no metabolic complications, and were associated with reduced blood loss and shorter hospital stays,” Ogles said.

Dyess shared his research in both oral and poster formats. His podium presentation, “Neurosurgery Program Directors' Perspectives on the Role of Research in Residency Matching: A Qualitative Study,” examined how research experience influences residency selection. 

His poster, “What Resources Are Provided to Early Career Spinal Deformity Surgeons: Are They Sufficient for Sustained Success and Well-Being?” analyzed the support systems available to early-career complex spine surgeons.

“By capturing the support systems and resources for clinical care present at various institutions,” Dyess explained, “this research aims to help other surgeons identify which resources are most likely to aid their own practice, well-being, and sustained success.”

Christian Cooper and Chip Ogles

Cooper presented a poster titled “Assessing Price Transparency Features of Alabama Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Policy Evaluation.”

“Getting to share our work and be surrounded by some of the most exciting research in neurosurgery was an incredible experience,” Cooper said. “I’m so grateful to Dr. Richard Menger for making this opportunity possible, and I had a great time exploring Los Angeles with my colleagues.”

Barnett contributed to the Art of Neurosurgery exhibit, showcasing both a physical illustration of a sphenoclinoidal meningioma removal and a virtual illustration of the endoscopic retrosigmoid approach.

The CNS’s mission is to enhance health and improve lives through innovative neurosurgical education, advancement of clinical practice and scientific exchange. Positioned at the intersection of innovation and tradition, the CNS annual meeting celebrated the diversity of neurosurgeons across different practices, geographies and approaches, while reigniting the core values of humanism and compassion in medicine.

EDGE for Success kicks off new series with purpose, passion, and collaborative leadership

EDGE mentor and facilitator Brittany Brown, MSN, RN, far left, is joined by mentees Sierra Huff-Brown, Kathleen Haynes and Lisa Dickson.

The Whiddon College of Medicine launched the second cohort of EDGE for Success: Empowering Development, Growth, and Excellence with an inspiring first session led by Brittany Brown, MSN, RN, director of operations for internal medicine and a graduate of EDGE’s inaugural cohort.

Brown, who now serves as both mentor and facilitator, guided participants through Foundations of Leadership and Influence — an interactive session that invited attendees to explore their personal values, define their “why,” and reflect on what it means to lead with authenticity and emotional intelligence.

She was joined by mentees Kathleen Haynes, coordinator of practice operations for pediatrics/neonatology; Lisa Dickson, MBA, financial operations specialist at the Whiddon College of Medicine; and Sierra Huff-Brown, assistant registrar at the Whiddon College of Medicine, who co-presented on key leadership concepts and facilitated small-group discussions that brought the material to life. Together, they modeled what EDGE is all about — shared growth, collaboration, and learning through experience.

“Working with Kathleen, Lisa, and Sierra has been such a rewarding experience,” Brown said. “They each bring their own perspective, strength, and authenticity to the table; and watching them step into these leadership moments reminds me exactly why EDGE matters. The future of leadership in our college is bright because of emerging voices like theirs.”

Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA, director of quality improvement in the Office of Accreditation and Planning and program co-lead, said Brittany’s leadership represents the full-circle impact EDGE was designed to create.

“Brittany exemplifies what it means to grow through EDGE. She’s not just teaching leadership; she’s living it,” Pierce said. “Her ability to guide others with both strength and empathy captures the very essence of this program. Seeing her now mentor and inspire new participants is exactly what we hoped this series would achieve.”

Participants were introduced to developing their leadership mission statements, a reflection process they’ll continue to build on throughout the program as they explore credibility, communication, adaptability, and personal branding.

As the series continues, Pierce said, EDGE participants will build on this foundation, continuing the program’s mission to empower leadership at every level.

Fall Door Decorating Contest winners announced

First-, second- and third-place winners, from left: Kathy Harden, Skye Andrade, and Lori Simmons.

Creativity and Jag pride were on full display at the Whiddon College of Medicine as staff transformed their office doors into festive and spooky scenes for the Fall Door Decorating Contest.

Winners received a door trophy and treat basket:

• 1st place: “Falling for Our Jags” – Kathy Harden and Amanda Arnold, Faculty Development
• 2nd place: “I Love USA” – Skye Andrade, Research Office
• 3rd place: “Welcome Foolish Mortals” – Lori Simmons, Radiation Safety

Honorable Mentions were awarded for spookiest, funniest, best team effort, homecoming theme, and best fall theme:

• “Hocus Pocus” – Katelin Morris, Radiation Safety 
• “Enter if you Dare” – Wesley Myrick, Radiation Safety
• “Pumpkin Ghost Yard” – Joanne Brookfield, Education Technology Services
• “Bats!” – Kristin Melton, Center for Strategic Health Innovation
• “Swimming in Deadlines” – Victoria Nadeau, Research Administration and Development

Two pharmacology students take top honors in Three Minute Thesis Competition

Haley Kominek and Sayema Naaz, with mentor Glen Borchert, Ph.D., earned top awards at the competition.

By Michelle Ryan-Day

Two graduate students from the Department of Pharmacology took top honors in this year’s campuswide Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition hosted by the Graduate School at the University of South Alabama. 

Sayema Naaz earned first place for her presentation, “The Persister Problem: How Salmonella Survives Stress,” while Haley Kominek earned second place for her talk, “Silent Conversations: How RNA Connects Our Cells.” Both students are mentored by Glen Borchert, Ph.D., professor of pharmacology and National Science Foundation CAREER Investigator. 

The 3MT competition challenges graduate students to present their research and its significance in just three minutes using one static slide — a test of clarity, creativity, and communication. Originating at the University of Queensland in Australia, the competition is designed to help students effectively convey complex research to a general audience. 

This year, eight finalists were selected to compete, with the top three winners receiving monetary awards: $2,000 for first place, $1,500 for second, and $1,000 for third. Naaz will also represent USA at the Council of Southern Graduate Schools (CSGS) regional competition in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in February 2026. 

Naaz’s research focuses on understanding how Salmonella bacteria survive stress and cause chronic infections by investigating the role of non-coding RNAs and proteins in bacterial persistence.  

“It was a truly rewarding experience to share my research with an audience that had little to no background in the work we do,” she said. “Explaining complex ideas in a way that connects everyone reminds me why I love what I do. The experience made me much more confident and capable of explaining my research to a diverse audience, a skill I know will serve me well in the future.” 

Kominek’s presentation explored how RNA molecules facilitate communication between cells, shedding light on how certain RNA modifications determine which RNAs are secreted, and how they are recognized by other cells.  

“I found it to be a fun challenge having to simplify my research into something that non-science members of the community could understand,” Kominek said. “As scientists, it is really important to learn how to communicate your research to the public. 

“There is often a gap between medical research and public understanding, and bridging that gap can make science feel less intimidating. The 3MT was a great opportunity to start learning how to do that.” 

Both students expressed appreciation for the support from their adviser Borchert and Harold Pardue, Ph.D., dean of the graduate school, associate vice president for academic affairs and professor in the School of Computing.  

Borchert praised both students for their accomplishments.  

“Sayema and Haley are extremely talented, passionate and hardworking,” he said. “Although they were competing against several other remarkable students, I knew Sayema had won the instant they announced Haley as runner-up — because in my mind, Sayema was the only student who could beat Haley, and Haley was the only one who could beat Sayema.” 

Grelet receives 2025 Mayer Mitchell Award for Excellence in Cancer Research

Joy Mitchell Grodnick and Arlene Mitchell present the award to Simon Grelet, Ph.D.

By Jessica Jones

USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute has named Simon Grelet, Ph.D., as the recipient of the 2025 Mayer Mitchell Award for Excellence in Cancer Research, the institute’s highest internal distinction recognizing scientific achievement and potential for transformative impact in oncology. 

The award, established in memory of longtime University of South Alabama trustee and MCI founding champion Mayer Mitchell, is presented annually to an emerging research leader at MCI following faculty committee review. The honor includes $10,000 in research support made possible through the generosity of the Mitchell family. 

“Dr. Grelet’s work exemplifies the mission and momentum of the Mitchell Cancer Institute — accelerating knowledge that changes how cancer is detected, understood and treated,” said Natalie Fox, DNP, CEO for USA Health. “His discoveries in cancer neuroscience are generating new pathways for therapies and elevating the visibility of MCI on the world stage.” 

Grelet serves as an assistant professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and is widely recognized for pioneering contributions in the emerging domain of cancer neuroscience. His research program at MCI is dedicated to understanding how the tumor microenvironment shapes cancer progression, with a particular emphasis on the interplay between cancer cells, the nervous system, and cellular metabolism. 

Additionally, Grelet’s laboratory demonstrated that mitochondria are transferred from nerves to cancer cells to fuel metastasis, a discovery published earlier this year in the scientific journal Nature that reframes how tumor spread is understood and introduces an entirely new class of therapeutic targets. His group has further advanced the field through development of CRISPR-based lineage tracing tools to study cancer-induced innervation and through identification of long non-coding RNA regulators of tumor plasticity and neurogenesis. 

His research program has attracted global attention and sustained external investment. Grelet is a recipient of the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute MERIT Award, one of the most selective accolades in oncology, and serves as principal investigator on multiple federally and foundation-funded studies. He is also the lead inventor on a U.S. patent application describing methods to track mitochondrial transfer between cells, representing a significant opportunity and strong innovation for the Whiddon College of Medicine. 

Grelet’s work has been covered by major scientific and general media outlets, including Science, Nature, Nature Neuroscience, Cancer Discovery, New Scientist and Scientific American, reflecting international interest in the implications of his findings. He has been invited to present at leading conferences in the United States and abroad, underscoring his standing as an emerging leader in the field. 

“This recognition reflects not only Dr. Grelet’s scientific excellence, but also his leadership in building a collaborative, team-focused research environment,” said Theresa McLaughlin, administrator at MCI. “His contributions advance both our science and our culture at MCI.” 

Beyond his laboratory impact, Grelet has strengthened the research culture at MCI and across the academic enterprise by revitalizing the Data in Progress seminar program, directing the MCI Summer Research Program, mentoring students and trainees at multiple levels, and engaging community partners to broaden understanding of cancer research and its relevance to patients. 

With this award, Grelet joins a distinguished group of recipients who have advanced MCI’s reputation as a national leader in translational cancer research. 

Urology resident presents research at international conference

Kevin Parham, M.D., presents at the Society of Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeons (GURS) Academic Congress.

By Carol McPhail

Kevin Parham, M.D., a third-year urology resident at USA Health, presented research in September at the Society of Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeons (GURS) Academic Congress in Minneapolis. 

Parham presented two posters at the meeting, which drew urologists, fellows, residents, medical students, and allied health professionals from around the world. 

“Expanding the Reconstructive Footprint: Lessons from the First 18 Months of a Rural Urethroplasty Program,” retrospectively reviewed 44 urethroplasty cases performed over 18 months in a region previously lacking consistent access to urethral reconstruction. Urethroplasty is a surgical procedure to repair or rebuild the urethra and is typically performed by a urologist with advanced training in reconstructive urology. 

“We showed that even in a rural region with limited prior access to urethral reconstruction, targeted program development can meaningfully expand care,” Parham said. “Our early experience reinforces that geography shouldn’t limit a patient’s ability to receive complex urologic surgery.” 

Another presentation, “Can Chatbots Guide Gender-Affirming Surgical Decisions? An analysis of Five Artificial Intelligence Models,” evaluated the quality of AI chatbot-generated responses to common patient questions about gender-affirming surgery. 

“Our findings show the promise of AI tools, but also the gap that remains before they can reliably support patients considering gender-affirming surgery,” Parham said. “This reinforces the importance of physicians guiding patients through complex, deeply personal surgical decisions.” 

Parham credited USA Health urologist Jatinder Kumar, M.D., for his mentorship. He also acknowledged presentation co-authors Christian Manganti, M.D., a second-year urology resident; Hanna Moreland, M.D., a fourth-year resident at USA Health; and Dylan Peterson, a first-year medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine, for their work and support on the projects.

Medical students, residents present research at APPA Fall Conference

Evan Chavers, M.D., and Stephen Richardson, D.O., presented on AI tools in clinical psychiatry.

By Carol McPhail

Medical students, psychiatry residents and a psychiatry fellow recently presented research at the Alabama Psychiatric Physicians Association (APPA) Fall Conference in Prattville, Alabama. 

The APPA is a district branch of the American Psychiatric Association. 

Evan Chavers, M.D., a fourth-year psychiatry resident at USA Health, won first place for his presentation, “Evaluating Artificial Intelligence Tools in Psychiatry: Promises and Pitfalls.” 

Chavers worked with third-year psychiatry resident Stephen Richardson, D.O., and William Tilllman III, M.D., on the project, which evaluated the current state of AI tools in clinical psychiatry including OpenEvidence, administrative tools for scheduling and letter writing, ambient scribe programs and LLM-based therapy chatbots. 

They reviewed literature and their experiences with the tools to develop a “stoplight” model of safety/readiness for clinical use. “We gave a green light to workflow and administrative tools, yellow light for clinical decision support and ambient scribes, and a red light to therapy chatbots,” Chavers said. “We cautioned against the risks of ‘de-skilling’ or the atrophy of clinical skill, due to reliance on AI and pointed out that therapy chatbots have a long way to go in ensuring patient safety.” 

Chavers said that while AI tools hold potential, physicians should always prioritize patient safety and privacy. “If you cannot critically evaluate the tool’s output based on your own clinical knowledge base, it should not be used,” he said. 

Anthony Fant and Sebrina Burnett, D.O.

Anthony Fant, a third-year medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine, won third place for his presentation, “Simplified Lithium Loading Strategies for Rapid Initiation and Early Maintenance.” 

The poster presented two simplified inpatient lithium loading strategies that can be used for rapid initiation and early maintenance in a hospital setting – a weight-based, extended-release loading protocol with a transition to once-nightly maintenance dosing, and a single-dose “test dose” loading protocol with a 24-hour level to predict the maintenance dose using the Cooper’s nomogram. 

Fant said that both loading regimens presented an individualized approach to treatment, illustrating how medicine is becoming more personalized to each patient. “It goes to show that patients are frequently not ideal textbook cases, and having advancements in medicine that can be tailored to those individual nuances is what makes personalized medicine, in any specialty, very exciting for me,” he said. 

Sebrina Burnett, D.O., a second-year psychiatry resident, worked with Fant on the presentation. “What was surprising to me regarding this topic was how well both of these methods worked when used at our inpatient psychiatric facility, and also how underutilized inpatient lithium loading is, in general, despite there being two relatively straightforward and safe methods available,” she said. 

Other posters at the conference included: 

• “The Impact of In-School and Out-of-School Suspension on Future Criminal Legal System Involvement and the Need for Mental Healthcare Collaboration in Prevention,” presented by Chelsea R. Miller, M.D., a child and adolescent psychiatry fellow at USA Health/AltaPointe. 
• “Lithium as a Potential Disease-Modifying Agent in Dementia: A Review of Emerging Evidence,” presented by Burnett. 
• “Ketamine Administration Following an Acute Traumatic Event,” presented by Maria Verde, a third-year medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine. 
• “Ketamine-Assisted Buprenorphine Induction for Kratom-Induced Opioid Withdrawal,” presented by Billy Nguyen, M.D., a second-year resident. 
• “Differentiating Between Catatonia and Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome,” presented by Alina Teslenko, D.O., a third-year resident. 
• “Lithium Limbo: The Balance of Lithium Dosing and Toxicity,” presented by Leah Kunneth, a third-year medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine. 
• “From Thoughts to Thyroid: A Case Report on Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Depression,” presented by Caleb Thomas, a fourth-year medical student. 

USA Health residents and fellows present at national CHEST conference

Representing USA Health, from left, are Muhammad Dawood Sheikh, M.D.; Sangya Sharma, D.O.; Philip Almalouf, M.D.; José Acevedo Echevarría, M.D.; Aman Dutta, M.D.; Taylor Cook, M.D.; and Chibuzo Clement Odigwe, M.D.

By Michelle Ryan-Day

Three internal medicine residents, one med/peds resident, and a pulmonary critical care fellow from USA Health presented research posters at the 2025 CHEST annual meeting last month in Chicago. Each year, the national conference brings together thousands of physicians, researchers and healthcare professionals specializing in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. 

Residents and fellows had opportunities to engage with leading experts in pulmonary and critical care medicine, showcase ongoing research efforts, and collaborate with peers from across the United States. 

Taylor Cook, M.D.

“I’m honored to represent USA Health at the CHEST Annual Meeting with our poster presentation,” said Taylor Cook, M.D., a pulmonary/critical care fellow. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to share our work and learn from so many leaders in pulmonary and critical care.”  

In her presentation, Cook analyzed a rare marine-related infection that led to rapid sepsis and shock in an immunocompromised patient, underscoring the urgency of early recognition and treatment of uncommon bacterial pathogens in patients with chronic conditions. 

Sangya Sharma, D.O.

“It was truly a surreal experience to represent USA Health at CHEST,” said Sangya Sharma, D.O., a third-year internal medicine resident. “I’m extremely grateful for my colleagues and mentors for their unwavering encouragement and enthusiasm.” 

Sharma’s poster detailed a rare instance of stress-induced cardiomyopathy linked to cancer immunotherapy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing potential cardiac side effects in patients receiving advanced oncologic treatments. Her case stressed the value of multidisciplinary collaboration in identifying and managing complex therapy-related complications. 

José Acevedo Echevarría, M.D.

“It is always an honor to represent our program, and I proudly celebrate the success of my colleagues,” said José Acevedo Echevarría, M.D., a third-year med/peds resident. “Participating in CHEST was a valuable opportunity that advanced our growth as physicians.” 

Echevarria explored a complex case of metabolic acidosis and highlighted the importance of a systematic, evidence-based approach to identifying underlying causes. By emphasizing comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, the report reinforced how careful clinical reasoning can guide timely and effective treatment for critically ill patients. 

Pavel Hurtado Cabrera, M.D.

Pavel Hurtado Cabrera, M.D., a third-year internal medicine resident, presented a case involving a patient with pancreatitis who developed life-threatening systemic inflammation, who was ultimately diagnosed as hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) using established clinical criteria and biopsy findings. It noted the importance of early recognition and treatment of HLH, especially in patients with severe inflammatory complications of pancreatitis, to improve outcomes and prevent fatal progression. 

Muhammad Dawood Sheikh, M.D.

Muhammad Dawood Sheikh, M.D., also a third-year internal medicine resident, shared a rare and compelling case of non-germinal center B-cell diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with direct cardiac invasion. The patient initially presented with breathing difficulty and chest discomfort, and imaging revealed extensive pulmonary masses along with involvement of the heart. Diagnosis was confirmed through biopsy, and urgent treatment including chemotherapy and effusion management was initiated. Sheikh concluded that clinicians should consider lymphoma in severe cardiopulmonary presentations, as early recognition and intervention are critical for improving patient outcomes. 

Aman Dutta, M.D., a pulmonary/critical care fellow; Aariez Khalid, D.O., a second-year internal medicine resident; and Philip Almalouf, M.D., and Chibuzo Clement Odigwe, M.D., both attending physicians in pulmonary/critical care medicine and assistant professors of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, were also part of USA Health’s presence at the national event. 

CHEST, hosted annually by the American College of Chest Physicians, features groundbreaking research presentations, hands-on clinical sessions, and networking opportunities that advance the field of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. The American College of Chest Physicians is the global leader in advancing best patient outcomes through innovative chest medicine education, clinical research, and team-based care. 

Residents and fellows strengthen communication skills through horsemanship training

From left, Leena Patel, M.D., Catherine Elortegui; Ekta Khubchandani, M.D.; Judy Blair-Elortegui, M.D.; Angad Singh, M.D.; and Shausha Farooq, M.D.

By Michelle Ryan-Day

In an innovative approach to medical education, internal medicine residents at USA Health recently traded their stethoscopes for saddles and spent time in Fairhope with a horse named Newt to explore the power of nonverbal communication.  

Angad Singh, M.D.

Part of the Department of Internal Medicine’s Horsemanship Seminar, this hands-on workshop helps physicians-in-training recognize and refine the subtle cues that shape how they interact with patients. While horses and medicine may seem worlds apart, programs like this are being used across the country as an experiential way to build empathy, mindfulness, and connection.  

“This session focused more on the messages we send with our non-verbal communication,” said Judy Blair-Elortegui, M.D., FACP, vice chair of medical education and seminar organizer. “Previous sessions focused on being perceptive of what patients (or horses) are communicating nonverbally and adapting to individual communication styles.”  

Third-year internal medicine residents Shausha Farooq, M.D., Ekta Khubchandani, M.D., and Leena Patel, M.D., and pulmonary and critical care fellow Angad Singh, M.D., participated in the workshop, learning how even small shifts in posture or presence can influence how a horse responds.  

“Working with Newt taught me how much can be communicated without words through calm energy, patience, and presence,” Singh said. “That quiet connection helped me slow down, be more mindful, and manage stress better. It’s a lesson I will carry into medicine, reminding me to listen deeply and care with empathy.”  

Shausha Farooq, M.D.

For Patel, the experience underscored how important body language is in clinical practice.  

“The horsemanship seminar taught me to be mindful not only of how my own body language can be interpreted, but also the importance of observing subtle changes in Newt’s behavior and what it meant,” Patel said. “That awareness translates directly to medicine, where we often overlook the impact of our body language when communicating with patients and their families. Being attentive to their nonverbal responses can also help guide the conversation and create a better relationship between provider and patient.”  

Beyond communication skills, participants found the outdoor setting refreshing. “It was very important for wellness,” Patel said. “We were able to be out in the sun, get some fresh air, and take things at a slower pace compared to our busy, fast-paced work environment.”  

Research supports the seminar’s approach: horses are particularly attuned to human emotion and can reflect subtle shifts in tone, tension, or intent. Studies have shown that horses display 17 distinct facial expressions. Many of them mirror human emotions such as fear, surprise, and sadness, which makes them ideal teachers of empathy and awareness.  

Holliday speaks at national symposium on maternal health

Candice Holliday, J.D., M.D., far left, was
among the expert speakers at the symposium. 

By Casandra Andrews

Candice Holliday, J.D., M.D., an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, recently served as a panelist at the Beazley Symposium on Health Care Law and Policy, an event that brings together leading voices in law, medicine, and public health to examine critical issues shaping healthcare policy. 

The 2025 symposium, titled “Confronting the Maternal Health Crisis: Access, Equity and Reform,” was held Oct. 24 at Loyola University Chicago School of Law. Presented in conjunction with the Annals of Health Law & Life Sciences, the event focused on the persistent challenges surrounding maternal health in the United States, particularly in underserved and rural communities. 

Holliday was among leading experts who discussed barriers to care, and potential reforms designed to improve outcomes for mothers and infants. Topics also included the role of Medicaid in maternal care, disparities in maternal health outcomes, and the need for stronger systems to provide equitable access to prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. 

Drawing on her experience in academic medicine and clinical practice at USA Health, she discussed the regulatory framework that allowed hospitals to be inadequately reimbursed for providing care, which has led to closures across Alabama and beyond.  

Holliday, who earned a law degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor before receiving a medical degree from the Whiddon College of Medicine, discussed the unique legal challenges of practicing obstetrics, including medical malpractice risks and the exorbitant cost of medical malpractice insurance.  

Through involvement in national discussions such as the Beazley Symposium, Holliday continues to advance USA Health’s mission of improving health outcomes on the Alabama Gulf Coast and beyond. Her participation reflects the academic health system’s growing engagement in shaping policy conversations that impact the quality and accessibility of care for women and their families.