Family Medicine Program Continues Strong Growth

The future of family medicine at Baystate Franklin Medical Center continues to look bright, as it brings in its newest class of medical residents, including Dr. Kassandra Jean-Marie, one of two recipients of the 2024 Anthony P. Lovell, MD Memorial Endowed Award for Excellence. Dr. Jean-Marie was a medical student in the Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) program at the UMass Chan Medical School-Baystate.

“The PURCH experience allowed me to meet incredibly resilient patients and become immersed in a community that genuinely cares for one another in these uncertain times,” shared Dr. Jean-Marie about her community- entrenched academic track.

“PURCH really spoke about all the things I wanted to be when I became a physician. By reading community assessment needs, by having focus groups with neighborhood councils, by listening to the social disparities in the area, by engaging with community leaders, members, and advocates, we learn to serve the community in the way that fits the patient’s and community’s needs.”

Now, Dr. Jean-Marie is continuing her training as a fully-fledged physician with the Family Medicine Residency program at Baystate Franklin Medical Center, joining with the community that taught her “the true meaning of service.”

Family Medicine physicians provide comprehensive care for their patients – from infants to adults -, including preventive care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of family planning and pregnancy care. People seek out family medicine physicians because:

• They want a doctor who knows them and their family history.
• They want comprehensive care for all members of their family.
• They want a physician who can provide continuity of care over time.
• They want a doctor who practices preventive medicine.
• They want a provider who can handle most of their family’s health needs.

Dr. Jean-Marie has exhibited extensive community involvement, a key piece of the Baystate Franklin Medical Center Department of Family Medicine’s ethos. This dedication is just one of the reasons that she was a recipient of the 2024 Anthony P. Lovell, MD Memorial Endowed Award.

“Dr. Lovell exemplified the aspirations of all new physicians—a legacy built on genuine care and dedication to others. Being chosen as one of the recipients of this award is an honor and will continue to serve as a reminder of my commitment to the Baystate Health community,” said Dr. Jean-Marie.

Generosity from donors helped launch the Family Medicine Residency program. Gifts of all kinds can help to bolster its future for the community. Learn more about the Family Medicine Program and how you can support it.