From left are Karen Mann, director of hospital medicine at Tift Regional; Chris Dorman, Foundation board member and CEO of Tift Regional; Dr. Richard McCullough; Mandy Brooks, executive director of the TRMC Foundation; and Laura Stanton, practice manager of hospital medicine at Tift Regional.

TIFTON — The 13th annual Exceptional Physician Award was recently presented to Dr. Richard McCullough at Tift Regional Medical Center.

An anonymous donor established this award through the TRMC Foundation, motivated by their passion for the healthcare field, according to a press release from the foundation. The donor collaborates closely with physicians and wanted to honor them for their professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence in medicine and towards their patients. This $500 cash award is presented annually to a physician who exemplifies these qualities, the foundation said.

Board certified in internal medicine, McCullough practices with Southwell Medical Clinic in Tifton. He began his career at Tifton Medical Clinic, also known as Affinity Clinic. He was influential in laying the foundation for the progressive facilities and healthcare that are the hallmark of this medical practice, the foundation’s press release said.

“As an internist, Dr. McCullough specializes in adult medicine. He is skilled in disease prevention and the management of complex disorders of the body. He has been practicing medicine in Tifton since 1976,” stated Mandy Brooks, executive director of the TRMC Foundation.

McCullough earned his medical degree from Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. He followed with a rotating internship and residency at Memorial Medical Center in Savannah.

McCullough is known for his dedication to healthcare, the foundation said.

“On behalf of the Hospital Medicine group, we are sincerely appreciative of Dr. McCullough’s outstanding contributions to not only our department, but to the organization as a whole,” said Karen Mann, director of hospital medicine. “His dedication and hard work have been an invaluable asset to our team for many years. We are most especially grateful for his commitment to providing excellent patient care and mentorship to our younger physicians. His impact on our team and the hospital is immeasurable.”

To learn more about the Exceptional Physician Award, please contact the TRMC Foundation at (229) 391-3310 or visit www.trmcf.com.