Allergy & Immunology

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Jeffrey A. Culp grew up in Northeast Ohio.  Dr. Culp attended Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH, where he majored in biology and religion.  After graduation, he attended the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, and did his internal medicine residency at the University of Virginia, where he also completed a fellowship in allergy/immunology.  Dr. Culp is a board certified in Allergy and Immunology, and Internal Medicine.

Dr. Culp enjoys specializing in allergy/immunology because he can provide care for children and adults, with a wide variety of allergy conditions.  With proper treatment, a patient’s health and quality of life will significantly improve.

In his spare time, Dr. Culp enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, exploring new restaurants, running, lifting weights with his two teenage sons, and following sports, such as track and field, football, basketball and baseball.

Dr. Dolores Lucas received her medical doctorate degree from New York University School of Medicine in 1994. She completed her internship in Internal Medicine at New York University Medical Center, New York City, in 1995. Upon completion of two years in a Dermatology Residency at SUNY (New York City), Dr. Lucas completed her Dermatology training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville in 1998. While at Vanderbilt, Dr. Lucas was a contributing author for the landmark textbook Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine (5th Edition). Dr. Lucas has also contributed numerous publications to the medical literature and has made many academic presentations in the field of dermatology. She is Board Certified in Dermatology by the American Board of Dermatology. Her professional memberships include the Tennessee Medical Association and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.

After completing her Dermatology training, Dr. Lucas was offered a faculty position at Vanderbilt. However, she chose to begin the rewarding career of private practice and joined Dickson Medical Associates in 2000. Dr. Lucas has been a shareholder and a member of the DMA Board of Directors since 2007.

Dr. Lucas’ Dermatology practice specializes in disorders and diseases of the skin, hair and nails. She performs minimally invasive surgical procedures and offers topical therapies in the treatment of everything from acne to psoriasis. Frequently performed surgical procedures include removal of cysts, skin cancers and precancerous growths. Dr. Lucas’ extensive training provides her with the confidence to diagnose and treat all dermatologic disorders including hypersensitivities and immune deficiency disorders. Dr. Lucas’ knowledge and experience means her office provides the best of dermatologic care to patients of all ages, from pediatric, through adult and geriatric patient populations.

When Dr. Lucas is not working, she enjoys gardening, running, photography, scrapbooking and cooking.

Amanda Decker, a 1999 graduate of Dickson County High School, completed her undergraduate degree in philosophy at Middle Tennessee State University, graduating cum laude Class of 2003. She entered the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing to begin the nursing “bridge” program that would allow her to take accelerated nursing courses to advance into the Master of Science in Nursing after completing the first year of study.  Mrs. Decker completed her academic studies at Vanderbilt School of Nursing achieving a Master of Science in Nursing and acquired her Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2005.  She is also listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and qualified to perform Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals.

Mrs. Decker began her professional career as a family nurse practitioner in Kingston Springs under the preceptorship of Dr. Reggie Anderson.  She returned to Dickson in February 2009 as lead provider for the Dickson County Schools Family Clinic.  For the past six years, she has provided primary care and employer health services to the employees and families of the Dickson County school system, city and county government.

Amanda’s desire to help others has inspired her to serve on two medical mission trips to Honduras in 2012 and 2013, delivering primary care services to impoverished communities.  In order to “give back” to her alma mater, Mrs. Decker routinely serves as a clinical preceptor for Vanderbilt nurse practitioner students as she enjoys teaching in the clinical setting.

A native of Charlotte/Sylvia communities in rural Dickson County, Amanda, knew as early as the age of 5 that she wanted to be a “doctor”. She did not understand at that young age there were so many opportunities outside of being a doctor or a nurse. Her parents, Neal and Carmen Westerman, always encouraged her to follow her dreams. While pursuing her bachelor degree at MTSU, she learned about the nurse practitioner program and knew that was a perfect fit for her. She finds her career challenging and rewarding. She “loves taking care of patients of all ages, building relationships and helping patients achieve their health goals.”  Amanda considers it a privilege to provide medical care to the people of her community and cares for each one as her extended family.

Outside of the work setting, Amanda enjoys spending quality time with her family.  Husband, Tim, is a teacher and assistant boys’ basketball coach at Creekwood High School. They are blessed with two beautiful children, Griffin and Willow. They moved to the Westerman farm in 2012, which has been in the family for more than eighty years. Together they enjoy riding ATVs, fishing and creating memories for another generation.

Nurse Practitioners (NP) are Registered Nurses who serve as primary and specialty health care providers under the indirect supervision of a physician.  They provide direct patient care including assessing, diagnosing, planning and prescribing pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of health problems, health promotion, immunizations, and preventive care within the specialized area of practice.  National certification and State Board of Nursing specialty certification and licensure are required.

Mrs. Lori Green began her career in healthcare in 1996 after completing her degree as a Registered Nurse from Tennessee State University. She chose to further her education in 2004 and returned to college part-time to earn a degree in Business Management at Bethel College while working full-time as Director of Women’s Services at Tristar Horizon Medical Center. Her passion for patient care led her to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing from Middle Tennessee State University where she successfully achieved her certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2011.  She is board certified as Family Nurse Practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Lori is also certified in basic life support and neonatal resuscitation.

Mrs. Green provides the full-spectrum of family medicine including adult medicine, both women’s and men’s health, pediatrics, preventative medicine, and chronic disease management. Professional membership includes the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetrics, and Neonatal Nurses.

When I started my nursing career 30 years ago I did so to be able to give back to others what someone gave back to me. My dad suffered a stroke and during his hospital stay I met a nurse that had lost his arm in a car accident. The care that this nurse provided was amazing and I told myself then I wanted to be able to do the same. The work he did with my dad was unbelievable to watch. He never let missing an arm slow him down. When I was in college finishing up my RN degree one on my instructors told my mom and dad that I was not finished. I looked at her laughed and said nope I am done. Several years latter a was ask to go back to get my Master’s with a friend of mine, so I filled out my paperwork went to the mailbox and told God if this is what he wanted he would allow it to happen. God knew before me that I needed to be a Nurse Practitioner and I sure am glad he led the way. This is one of the most promising careers I could have, because I get to see people change on a daily bases. When I see that change it makes me know that I have done my job. 

Outside the work setting, Lori enjoys spending time and cooking for her family and friends. She and her husband, Ernest, have been married for 26 years. They have 2 children and 3 grandchildren who are the central focus of their lives. Her hobbies include crafting, camping, boating, and hunting. She is an avid hockey fan and her favorite team is the Nashville Predators. Lori supports the March of Dimes and breast cancer awareness.

Born and raised in Dickson County, Lori enjoys being able to serve the people of her community and giving back to those who have helped her achieve her dream. Mrs. Green has been employed with Dickson Medical Associates since 2012.

Jennifer Gorzny is a two time graduate from Belmont University. She completed her undergraduate studies in 2011 and received her Masters of Science in Nursing in 2014. While completing her M.S.N. from Belmont, Jennifer did over 400 hours of her clinical requirements with multiple Dickson Medical Associates clinics.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in 2011, Jennifer has worked as an RN for Horizon Medical Center where she received floor experience in medical-surgery, high acuity and intensive care units. She was also a PRN charge nurse for overseeing patient care, staff assignments and emergency care.

Profession memberships include the Sigma Theta Tau International Society of Nursing – Omicron Phi Chapter.

Jennifer is the daughter of Dr. Jan and Lori Gorzny.  Her sister, Anna Gorzny, is also a nurse practitioner with DMA. Jennifer likes to spend her free time with parents, three sisters and her boyfriend. She also enjoys drawing, painting, working out and spending time outdoors.

Dickson Medical Associates is pleased to welcome Tracy Gregory, FNP-C as our new family nurse practitioner. Gregory comes to DMA with nearly 30 years of healthcare experience.

Becoming a nurse was a decision Gregory made as a little girl. She was inspired by her father who was a physician of holistic medicine and her mother, an educator and business owner. Gregory graduated from Alcorn State University’s nursing program in 1990 and earned a Master’s of Heath Science degree in 1995 from Mississippi College.

During her tenure as a nurse, Gregory practiced in a vast clinical background including: adult and pediatric acute care, private duty nursing, home health care, travel nursing, clinical nurse instructor, as well as various management roles.

Gregory relocated to Middle Tennessee in 2004 and worked at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital for nearly 10 years. During this time, she earned her Master’s in Science Nursing from Tennessee State University and became a certified family nurse practitioner.

“I’m most proud of my nurse practitioner role because I enjoy having a positive part of preventive health care, from my newborns growing and thriving into healthy children to adolescents and to my adult population by being dedicated in treating and managing disease,” Gregory said.

When providing care, Gregory’s goal is to meet the needs of the patient first. Her life philosophy is to follow the golden rule found in the book of Matthew, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Her goal as a healthcare provider reflects this attitude as she develops relationships, formulates trust and shows a commitment to the Dickson community by ensuring positive interactions while yielding the highest quality of care.

“My late grandfather was a Baptist minister who always made sure we understood this scripture in his teachings,” said Gregory. “It has never failed me in any situation I’ve faced,” Gregory said.

A successful experience for Gregory is when a patient understands the why behind a medical decision and has confidence in her as their provider. She hopes when patients leave her clinic, they have a better understanding of how to stay healthy and to manage and prevent illnesses.

Outside of work, Gregory enjoys cooking, attending church, traveling and scrapbooking to create precious memories for her family.

Tracy Gregory, FNP-C is available to see patients at DMA South on Mondays from 8 am – 5pm, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7 am – 7 pm and Thursdays from 8 am – 12pm. Appointments can be made by phone at 615-446-2708. Her office is located at 758 Hwy 46 South in Dickson.

Christie King-Patterson grew up in Waverly, Tennessee. She obtained her LPN education at the Tennessee Technology Center in Dickson, and went on to get her RN and Masters of Nursing at Austin Peay State University. She is married to Scott Patterson, and has two sons, Ryan (16) and Rylee (6).

Christie considers herself a typical baseball mom, usually spending her evenings at a baseball park. She enjoys being outside, riding ATV’s with her family, fishing, hunting, canning and putting up vegetables from her garden. Christie is a member of Wildwood Valley Church of Christ. DMA Waverly is located at 215 Holly Lane, across from Wal-Mart in Waverly, TN.

Dr. Deline Kirubanathan, or Dr. K as she prefers to be called, has expertise in Emergency and Acute Care Medicine. She has worked as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine for the University of Tennessee, Memphis, teaching medical students, Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants. In addition, Dr. K has experience working with Nursing Home patients, and has worked in a hospital setting. She is currently obtaining certifications in cosmetic medicine, where she will be adding procedures including Botox and dermal fillers to her practice.

Dr. Luplow earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Arkansas where he was selected to Phi Beta Kappa. He is a 1984 graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. Dr. Luplow completed his family practice residency in 1987 at the University of Tennessee program in Jackson.

As a specialist in family medicine, Dr. Luplow’s practice includes diagnosing and treating common illnesses, complex medical problems and chronic conditions.  He provides personal, comprehensive, and continuing care with emphasis on prevention.

Dr. Luplow first worked in Dickson on a medical student rotation and later returned during his residency training.  He has been Board Certified in Family Medicine since 1987, when he began his practice in Dickson.

Dr. Luplow is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Tennessee Medical Association.  He worked with Jackson Clinic and subsequently was a founding member of Dickson Medical Associates.

Dr. Luplow and his wife, Andrea, have three children.  Julia is Art Director at an advertising company in Seattle, WA; Diana is a Veterinarian in Denver, CO; and Wade is a student at Belmont University.  Away from the office, Dr. Luplow enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, hunting, and fishing.

Dr. John Morse, completed his undergraduate degree from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.  After graduating from college, he joined the United States Peace Corps and served two years in Ghana, West Africa as a teacher of Chemistry and Physics. He returned to his hometown of Atlanta to teach high school Chemistry and Physics for three years before deciding to pursue his dream to become a doctor.  Dr. Morse was inspired by his ninth grade Human Biology teacher, Ms Blackwelder, to pursue a career in medicine.  In 1985, he earned his medical doctorate degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. Dr. Morse completed his residency program at the University of Tennessee Family Medicine in Memphis and achieved accreditation by the American Board of Family Practice in 1988.

Dr. Morse’s practice as a family practitioner not only includes assessment and treatment of a wide range of conditions, ailments, and injuries, he is an advocate of preventive medicine which includes wellness and fitness programs that are critical to promoting good health and longevity.

Dr. Morse first came to Dickson during his residency program to complete his clinical internship under the direction of Dr. Bill Jackson. He began his career with DMA, formerly known as Jackson Clinic, in July 1988, immediately following his residency program. During his tenure with DMA, he has served since 1991 as a shareholder and member of the Board of Directors. He is also a member of the Tennessee Medical Association.

Dr. John Morse enjoys spending time with his two beautiful daughters, Ellie and Kari.  Ellie graduated Summa Cum Laude from Lee University in Cleveland, TN and is currently doing mission work for refugees in Atlanta. Kari, a senior of Biology at Belmont University, has been accepted by Lipscomb University to pursue a Master’s Degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science.  She has also been chosen to participate on the Governor’s Council for Physical Fitness and Health.

When he is not working, you may find Dr. Morse attending a folk and bluegrass jam session or quietly strumming his guitar or picking a tune on his mandolin.  “Doc” and his band, The Usual Suspects, are often asked to play at the annual Irish Picnic in McEwen, TN. Dr. Morse is also an avid classic car enthusiast who enjoys driving the beautiful back roads of Dickson.

Dr. Robert W. Orgain has been recognized by the Dickson Herald Readers’ Choice Awards as the Best Family Practice Doctor for the past 7 out of 8 years, from 2006 to 2013.

A 1970 graduate of Dickson High School, Dr. Orgain is the only DMA physician who was born, raised and schooled in Dickson County. He received his undergraduate degree from Austin Peay State University in 1974.  Dr. Orgain achieved his medical degree, with distinction, from the University of Tennessee School of Medicine, Class of 1977. He completed a three year family practice residency at Huntsville Hospital, Huntsville, AL in 1980. He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Dr. Orgain specializes in family medicine and provides preventive and comprehensive care to patients of all ages. His focus is on the “whole patient”, treating a wide range of medical issues, including the management of chronic and complex conditions.  Many patients have developed long-standing relationships with Dr. Orgain and he has come to know a great deal about the patient’s health history and medical needs. This helps in preventing health problems and reducing health risks.

Dr. Orgain returned to his hometown in 1984 to join the physicians of Jackson Clinic, subsequently named Dickson Medical Associates.  This decision would fulfill his career goal to return to his family and community to practice medicine. Dr. Orgain will celebrate his 30th year of practice with DMA in 2014, where he is a shareholder and member of the Board of Directors.

Professional memberships include the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Family Medicine, and Tennessee Medical Association.

When not at work, Dr Bob enjoys spending time with his family, wife Morgan, daughters Charlee, Brooke, and Jenna, and her husband JC. He loves the title “Pappy”, given to him by his grandsons James and Wright. As a family, the Orgains enjoy travel, cooking, running and Tennessee Volunteers football. Go Vols!

David Ross, M.D. completed his undergraduate degree from Austin Peay State University and studied Physiology at the University of Tennessee Knoxville before deciding to pursue his career as a medical doctor.  A 2000 graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis, he completed an Internal Medicine residency from the prestigious Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN in 2003.  Dr. Ross is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Ross’ practice focus is in the treatment of long-term, comprehensive care, managing both common and complex illnesses of adults and the elderly. He is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infections, diseases affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, digestive, respiratory and vascular systems.

Dr. Ross began his career with DMA in August 2003. He has served as a shareholder and member of the DMA Board of Directors since 2004.  His professional memberships include the American Medical Association and Tennessee Medical Association.   Dr. Ross was the recipient of the Dickson Herald Readers’ Choice Award as the 2010 Best Family Practice Doctor, even though he is an internist.

A 1990 graduate of McEwen High School, Dr. Ross grew up and worked on his family’s farm where he developed an appreciation for the outdoors and a love for wildlife. He plans to one day return to the farm with his family to follow the same traditions. Dr. Ross enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Beth, and their three children.  He also enjoys hunting and fishing when time permits.

A 1995 graduate of McEwen High School, Kelley Tummins Ross, was born, raised and schooled in Humphreys County.   She received her Associate of Science in Nursing from Aquinas College School of Nursing in 1997 and began her nursing career at Baptist Hospital.  Mrs. Ross accepted a position with Tristar Horizon Medical Center, preferring to be closer to her hometown of McEwen.   Although she enjoyed her nursing profession, in 2006 she chose to pursue an opportunity for greater career achievement. Inspired by her family of physicians, Kelley entered the accelerated registered nurse program at University of Phoenix while continuing to work at Tristar Horizon Medical Center.  She acquired her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from University of Phoenix in 2008 and transferred her studies to Tennessee State University, achieving a Master of Science in Nursing and Board Certification as a Nurse Practitioner from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2010.

Mrs. Ross began her employment with Dickson Medical Associates in October 2010 as a Family Nurse Practitioner.  This decision would provide her the opportunity to care for the people of her hometown and the community in which she lives. Even though she works primarily in the Express Care walk-in clinic at DMA South, she has many patients of her own following that she sees by appointment.

Outside of work, Kelley’s life revolves around her family and love for God.  She and her husband, Keith, enjoy family time with their two vivacious little boys.  They are members of the Hurricane Chapel Free Will Baptist Church.

Nurse Practitioners (NP) are Registered Nurses who serve as primary and specialty health care providers under the indirect supervision of a physician.  They provide direct patient care including assessing, diagnosing, planning and prescribing pharmacological and non-pharmacological for treatment of health problems, health promotion, immunizations, and preventive care within the specialized area of practice.  National certification and State Board of Nursing specialty certification and licensure are required.

Dr. Kerry Ross completed his under-graduate degree in Biology Summa Cum Laude from Union University in 1993.  After college, he took a year off to travel with the Baptist Missions Group on a medical mission to Honduras.  The mission trip clearly defined his career path to become a physician.  In 1998 he received his medical doctorate degree, graduating with highest honors, from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis. While at UT he was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. He chose to extend his medical career by completing a 4 year double residency at Vanderbilt University in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics.  He achieved board certification in 2002 from the American Board of Pediatrics.  Dr. Kerry received his second board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine in 2003.

Dr. Kerry provides long-term, comprehensive care in his outpatient office, managing both common and complex illnesses of infants, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. He is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infections, diseases affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, joints, digestive, respiratory and vascular systems. As a pediatrician, he follows the development and health of infants and children, provides regular health examinations and immunizations, and engages in preventive medicine and effective treatment of common problems.

Dr. Kerry joined the DMA physician staff in July 2002 after completing his residency program.  He has served as a DMA shareholder and member of the Board of Directors since July 2004. He is a member of the Tennessee Medical Association.

Dr. Ross, a native of McEwen, TN, graduated from McEwen High School in 1989. During his years of college and medical school, he always had one goal in mind, “to be the best physician he could be, come back home and give back to the people and community who have given him so much.”  He considers it a privilege to provide medical care to the people of his community and considers them to be family.

Dr. Kerry and his lovely wife, Stephanie, have 2 beautiful daughters. He is very active in the church and enjoys all things family.  He is a die-hard UT football fan, an avid history buff, and enjoys playing golf when he can find the time.

Add an answer to this item.Chessica Runyon, FNP-C, has over 20 years vesting in the medical field.  She started her nursing career in 2003 at Maury Regional Medical Center as a Registered Nurse, and served in various areas including surgical and critical care. 

Chessica received her MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner in 2015, and soon became an Urgent Care Provider and hospitalist NP.

Chessica provides care for all ages, and has experience with chronic medical conditions such as COPD, DM, HTM, hypothyroidism, as well as a vast array of acute illnesses.  Chessica provides womens’ healthcare, sports physicals, and she is DOT certified.  

Chessica was born in Maury County, TN, and is a life-long resident of Maury County.  She has 4 children, 2 adult sons and 2 teenage daughters who are active in sports.  If she isn’t working in her clinic, she can be found cheering her daughters from the sidelines.  Chessica is also an avid reader.

Dickson Medical Associates is pleased to welcome Dr. Daniel Sherwood as their newest family physician at DMA’s clinic in Fairview, TN.

After making the decision to join DMA, Sherwood and his wife considered several towns and schools around Nashville. They ultimately settled on Fairview because they were very impressed by the people they met at the high school, the community center, stores and restaurants.

“I’m very invested in Fairview and its continued success,” said Sherwood. “As a family physician, I look forward to serving all ages in my new home community at DMA Fairview by offering convenient access to care.”

Sherwood comes to DMA from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest (UAMS-NW) Family Medicine Residency Program in Fayetteville, Arkansas where he served as an attending physician as well as an Assistant Professor for students and residents. He also served part-time with Mercy, one of the nation’s top integrated health care systems. In 2018, Mercy’s independent third-party rater awarded him as the only Mercy primary care physician in Carroll County, Arkansas with the highest possible rating for patient satisfaction.

Sherwood is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He graduated from the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C. in 2000. In 2003, he completed his residency at Georgetown University/Providence Hospital Family Practice Residency Program in Washington, D.C., where he served as Chief Resident. Sherwood was also the recipient of the program’s highest honor, the Fort Lincoln Family Medical Center’s Award “as best resident clinician exemplifying the qualities and traits of a family physician.”

After graduation from residency, Sherwood proudly served in the National Health Services Corps, providing healthcare to underserved and vulnerable populations in federally-designated health professional shortage areas. Living first in Appalachia and then the Ozarks, he practiced many aspects of rural family medicine, including outpatient, hospital, nursing home, emergency room, and volunteer care through Eureka Christian Health Outreach.

“I think one of the most interesting parts of family medicine is the breadth and complexity of the conditions a family physician treats,” said Sherwood. “For example, I can see someone with a broken hand, then someone else who’s just suffered a stroke, and the third might be someone dealing with grief from a loss. But I do not view my practice as simply treating individual conditions or diseases. I’m here to care for the individual as a whole patient.”

One of Sherwood’s main goals with his practice is to provide the best scientifically-based treatment and advice possible. When it comes to nutrition and lifestyle improvements, physicians are recognizing more and more the benefits these changes can provide. Lifestyle health can prevent and in some cases reverse some of the most complex diseases people deal with like diabetes and the hardening of the arteries.

Sherwood is a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. During his tenure as an assistant professor in Arkansas, he presented to residents, students and faculty about evidence-based, lifestyle medicine approaches to prevent, reverse and manage disease. Sherwood had to no further than himself for tangible proof that nutrition and lifestyle improvements work.

Several years ago, he discovered his cholesterol was over 250 and his triglycerides were at 350. As a patient, Sherwood knew he needed to make some changes, but wasn’t keen on the idea. As a physician, Sherwood recognized he needed to practice what he preached.

“I realized simple habits like exercising 30 minutes a day five days a week can help, but the most important thing I needed to do was change the way I was eating,” Sherwood said. “By eating lots more nutritious, high fiber, foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and whole grains, I was able to drop my cholesterol over 100 points and triglycerides over 200 points without taking any medication.”

By going through his own lifestyle change, Sherwood discovered a new sympathy for his patients’ lifestyle challenges that he would not be able to share had he always been in good health himself.

“Ultimately my desire is to have a partnership with my patients,” said Sherwood. “I want to be someone they can trust with all of their questions or concerns so they are fully engaged in their care.”

Dr. Daniel Sherwood is available to see patients Monday through Friday at DMA Fairview from 7:30 am to 6 pm. Appointments can be made by phone at 629-205-3018.

Tristan Strong is a Family Nurse Practitioner, who specializes in preventative medicine with a focus of achieving optimal health outcomes.  Tristan completed his Bachelor of Science at Vanderbilt University and then earned his Master of Science in Nursing degree at Vanderbilt.  He is board certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center(ANCC) as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a member of the Obesity Medicine Association.  

While earning his Bachelor of Science, Tristan played outside linebacker for the Commodores, which is where his passion for health promotion began.  This passion encouraged Tristan to seek a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner.  Tristan’s desire is to serve his patients by accomplishing optimal outcomes, whether that is achieving a goal weight, helping patients feel better with higher energy levels so they can live the active lives they desire, or consulting patients on lifestyle changes.  

When not in the office, Tristan values spending quality time with his wife, Christie, and their three children–Charlie, Savannah and Wilder.  They enjoy the outdoors and encouraging their children to stay active.  Tristan enjoys exercising, working in the yard, movie nights with the family and family vacations.

Dr. Demond White completed his undergraduate degree from Dillard University, New Orleans, where he received the Student Leadership Award in 2001 and graduated with distinction as a member of the Beta Kappa Chi and the Alpha Kappa Mu National Scientific Honor Societies. Prior to entering medical school, he served as a Senior Research Technician with the University of Tennessee and a Teaching Assistant with the UT Health Careers Opportunity Program.  He earned his medical doctorate degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Class of 2009. During his UT Family Medicine Residency, Dr. White was chosen as the 2010 Intern of the Year and served as Chief Resident of the Program 2011-2012.  Dr. White is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Professional memberships for Dr. White include the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., American Academy of Family Physicians and the Tennessee Medical Association.

Dr. White’s practice as a family practitioner not only includes assessment and treatment of a wide range of conditions, ailments, and injuries, from sinus and respiratory infections to broken bones and disease management for patients of all ages, he also does a lot of preventive medicine which includes wellness and sports physicals.  He enjoys working with the local business and industry to provide worker’s compensation exams, pre-employment and DOT physicals. Dr. White is a certified medical review officer (MRO) by the American Association of Medical Review Officers.

Dr. White is one of the newest members of the DMA physician staff, having joined the medical group in August 2012, was recently elected as a shareholder and member of the DMA Board of Directors.  In the short time that he has been associated with DMA, he has excelled in the growth of his practice at DMA South Express Care.  Dr. White, in his own words, “I have wanted to be a doctor since I was 6 years old.  The Cosby Show is what initially sparked my interest.  I love helping people and I am so blessed to be able to interact with a wide array of people on a daily basis.  I tell all of my patients that being healthy is hard.  It so easy to do the unhealthy things, which encompass what you eat and not exercising among other things like tobacco use.  My goal is to have patients so healthy that they rarely have to see me.”

When he is not busy in the office, Dr. White appreciates spending quality time with his wife, Tiara, and their three children – Jada, Demond Jr. (DJ) and Derek.  He enjoys basketball, football, bowling, billiards, photography and watching movies when time permits.

At 20 years old, Christina felt a calling to care for the sick, and began her first job as a nursing assistant in a rural fishing town in the panhandle of Florida. In 1997, she graduated from Lively Technical Center in Tallahassee, Florida as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

In 2000, Christina relocated to middle Tennessee and returned to nursing school. In 2003, she graduated from Columbia State Community College in Columbia, TN, with an AS in nursing. As a registered nurse Christina worked in a variety of settings from the intensive care unit to being a certified wound care nurse and caring for patients in their homes for Vanderbilt. 

In 2010, Christina and her family relocated to Burns, TN, and she began working for TriStar Horizon Medical Center. In 2015, she was part of the original crew that opened TriStar Natchez, the freestanding ER in Dickson.    

Christina decided to go back to school, and, in 2018, graduated from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN, with a BS in nursing. Inspired by the story of Mary Breckenridge and the rural nursing service she started, she chose Frontier Nursing University in Hyden, Kentucky to complete her MS in nursing. After 24 years in nursing, she is now certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in Family Practice. 

It is Christina’s desire to give patients the same quality of care they can receive in Nashville, with a compassion and concern that only hometown neighbors can provide. 

She is currently pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice at Frontier Nursing University, she and hopes to graduate in the Fall of 2022.

When I am not at work, Christina enjoys spending time with my family, traveling, reading, hiking and growing flowers. She has a strong Christian faith, and she and her husband are members of St. Henry Catholic Church in West Nashville.

Dr. Vera Huffnagle completed her undergraduate degree from Bunknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, with distinction as a member of Phi Beta Kappa.  She achieved her medical doctorate degree, graduating with honors, at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Class of 1989, where she was nominated as an Alpha Omega Alpha member. During her Neurology residency at Medical College of Georgia, Dr. Huffnagle served as Chief Resident of the program. Dr. Huffnagle is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She holds a certification by the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine.

Immediately following her residency program, Dr. Huffnagle accepted a position with Medical College of Georgia as Assistant Professor of Neurology. She served in this capacity for three years prior to accepting a position with Horizon Medical Group, subsequently known as Dickson Medical Associates, in 1996. She has served as a shareholder and member of Dickson Medical Associates’ Board of Directors since 2001.

As a specialist in Neurology and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Dr. Huffnagle is specially trained to use information from the patient’s clinical history and physical examination, along with the scientific method of recording and analyzing biologic electrical potentials, such as EMGs, to diagnose and treat neuromuscular disorders. She has a comprehensive knowledge of neurological and musculoskeletal disorders to assure accurate interpretation and diagnosis, and provide patients with quality care.

Professional memberships for Dr. Vera Huffnagle include the American Academy of Electrodiagnostic Medicine, American Academy of Neurology, American Society of Neuroimaging, and Tennessee Medical Association.

When Dr. Huffnagle is not busy in the office, she enjoys traveling, hiking, and cooking.  She appreciates spending quality time with her two sons.

Dr. Enawgaw Mehari has a distinguished reputation for leadership in healthcare, most notably as founder and president of People to People, Inc., which has been in existence for approximately two decades.  He is also internationally recognized as an expert in neurology, pain management, and Neuro-AIDs. He earned his medical degree from Comenius University in Czechoslovakia, completed his neurology residence at the University of Kentucky, finished his fellowship in pain management and neurophysiology at Case Western University in Cleveland, and completed a fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis, in Neuro-AIDs.

Dr. Mehari has been instrumental in the establishment of different neurology residence programs, emergency medicine residence program at Black Lion Hospital, and Addis Ababa University’s Social Work Master program through his leadership at People to People, Inc.

In 2005, He founded the Peoples’ Free Clinic in Morehead, Kentucky, to provide free healthcare for the working poor.

In 2006, Dr. Mehari won a distinguished service award from the Society of Ethiopians Established in the Diaspora (SEED), and in 2007, he was nominated as a CNN Hero—awarded by the cable network to everyday people around the globe who have made a major impact on the world. In addition, he was awarded a Humanitarian Award by the Black Hall of Fame, and the 2010 Patient Advocate award by the American Academy of Neurology.

He has been granted the highest commendation by the Kentucky Governor’s office, Senate of the State of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.  He has been commended by the US House of Congress, and was awarded the Abebe Bikila Award by Bikila Organization for his working community service.

Dr. Mehari is a diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry, a diplomat of Neurology, Inc., and is a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties. He also serves as the Advisor to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education for Ethiopia. 

Dr. Mehari is available to see patients Monday through Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 p.m. For an appointment, call (615) 441-4520.

Maria Lastovka, NP, a 2000 graduate of Dickson County High School, was born, raised and schooled in Dickson County. A recipient of the Goodlark Medical Center Scholarship, she chose to pursue a career in healthcare inspired by her mother, Martha Collins Duke, who has served more than 35 years as a Registered Nurse with Goodlark Hospital and Tristar Horizon Medical Center.  Maria earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Austin Peay State University in 2005, graduating with honors having served with distinction on the Dean’s List for multiple semesters.  She was a recipient of Hospital Corporations of American (HCA) Scholarship in 2004.

Immediately following her completion of a Pediatric Nursing Residency at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in 2006, Mrs. Lastovka accepted a full-time position with Tristar Horizon Medical Center Women’s Health Services working with post-partum mothers and providing newborn care.  It was during this time that she made the decision to become a Nurse Practitioner. Maria enrolled in the Middle Tennessee State University Advanced Practice Nursing program and continued working part-time at Horizon.  She excelled in her Master’s program and was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.  Ms. Lastovka completed her academic studies achieving a Masters in Science of Nursing and acquired her Board Certification as a Nurse Practitioner from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners in 2011.

Mrs. Lastovka began her professional career as a Family Nurse Practitioner with the Dickson County Health Department before joining the staff of Dickson Medical Associates Children’s Clinic in March 2013.  She is a dedicated healthcare provider who has established an excellent rapport with her patients and their families.

When not caring for children at DMA, Mrs. Lastovka is embraced by her family and love for God.  She and her husband, Chad, have two beautiful little girls.  They are members of the Walnut Street Church of Christ.

Nurse Practitioners (NP) are Registered Nurses who serve as primary and specialty health care providers under the indirect supervision of a physician.  They provide direct patient care including assessing, diagnosing, planning and prescribing pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of health problems, health promotion, immunizations, and preventive care within the specialized area of practice. National certification and State Board of Nursing specialty certification and licensure are required.

Dr. Mary McNeal completed her undergraduate degree in Biology from Western Kentucky University, graduating Cum Laude.  She achieved her medical doctorate from University of Louisville School of Medicine, Class of 1998.  During her second year of pediatric residency at Charleston West Virginia University, Dr. McNeal was appointed to the Governor’s Cabinet for Children and Families where she served for two years on the West Virginia Child Fatality Review Team.  The purpose of this team was to evaluate accidental childhood deaths and recommend public policy to prevent these accidents. Dr. McNeal joined the physician staff of Dickson Medical Associates in July 2001, shortly after completing her residency program.

Dr. McNeal specializes in the health of infants, children and adolescents from birth to age 18, managing the physical, mental and emotional well-being of patients in every stage of development.  She provides regular health examinations and immunizations, and engages in preventive health maintenance and effective treatment of common problems, as well as caring for children who are acutely or chronically ill.  She is very comprehensive during her well child care visits and efficiently incorporates development and age appropriate anticipatory guidance. Dr. McNeal quickly gains rapport with both children and their parents and helps build the bonds of a caring relationship.

Professional memberships include the Tennessee Pediatric Society, Tennessee Medical Association, American Medical Association and Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She has served as the Medical Advisor for the 23rd Judicial District Child Advocacy Center for the past three years. During her tenure with DMA, she has fulfilled the duties as a shareholder and Board of Director member since 2004. Dr. McNeal is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics.

Originally from Staunton Virginia, Dr. Mary McNeal and her six siblings grew up in Morehead, Kentucky.  Her decision to become a physician was inspired by her mother’s career as a registered nurse.

When she is not working, Dr. McNeal and her husband, Rodney Pope, enjoy traveling and spending time with their extended families. Dr. McNeal is a parishioner and member of the choir at St. Christopher’s Catholic Church.  Her hobbies include music, theatre, and yoga. Dr. McNeal’s talent for music and song has led her to participate in theatre productions such as Steele Magnolia’s, Smoke On The Mountain, and The Music Man.

Dickson Medical Associates is proud to add Carol Moore, APRN, FNP, PNP, to our pediatric team.

Carol Moore is a pediatric nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in primary care. Carol has spent the past 12 years as a pediatric nurse practitioner at the Pediatric Primary Care Clinic in the Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital Outpatient Clinics. In this role, she managed the well and acute concerns of a diverse panel of patients.

Carol began her medical career working in the pediatric ICU at Vanderbilt as a staff nurse. Once she earned a master’s degree in nursing, she began working as a nurse practitioner in a small community practice in Springfield, From there, Carol worked in a family practice in Hendersonville, TN, before returning to Vanderbilt in 2004 as a member of the pediatric sedation team.

Carol Moore is a Dickson County native, and excited to practice medicine in her home town.

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Dr. Abigail Ryan is a Board Certified Pediatrician who completed her undergraduate degree in Biology at Saint Louis University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She obtained her medical doctorate degree from Saint Louis University School of Medicine, graduating with a distinction in community service. She completed her residency at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center in St. Louis, MO and received several awards during her years of training, including the program’s highest honor (the Dr. Benjamin H. Cohen Memorial Award) for Overall Outstanding Resident, the Outstanding Resident in Pediatric Critical Care, and the Pediatric Intern of the Year. 

Dr. Ryan has always felt that all children deserve excellent healthcare, regardless of their socioeconomic status. So after completing her residency, she worked for 10 years in community health centers in Missouri and Tennessee. She joined Dickson Medical Associates in 2021. She has provided care to children from all over the world and applied her expertise to care for children with a variety of different health issues, both acute and chronic. She loves building relationships with families and being a part of helping children grow into the best versions of themselves, while helping parents to be the best parents they can be. She cares for children from birth into adulthood, and provides well child checks (physicals), sports physicals, immunizations, as well as caring for children who are acutely ill or with chronic health issues. Dr. Ryan is a mother as well and personally understands that, as parents, we are at our most vulnerable when our child is unwell or struggling and she feels blessed to be able to help alleviate that burden. She strives to work with her patients and their parents as a team to help the child be as healthy, happy, and as safe as possible.

Dr. Ryan cherishes helping her patients and their families thrive through every challenge. She provides lactation consultations for mothers who need help with breastfeeding issues. She has also created a weight management program to help children and families work on healthy lifestyle changes to help children struggling with their weight. This is a personalized program to meet the needs of each specific family and has saved many children from the potential long-term health issues associated with weight concerns, while helping them gain confidence now. She has written an informational booklet to help parents learn important information and techniques to keep their children healthy and happy. 

Dr. Ryan grew up in a family of teachers but knew she wanted to be a Pediatrician when her brother was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes as a child. Since then, she has dedicated time to helping other children with diabetes by volunteering as a camp physician at diabetes camp and volunteering with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in hopes of finding a cure for Type 1 diabetes. 

When she is not working, Dr. Ryan enjoys spending her time with her family. She enjoys fishing, coaching soccer, playing sports and games with her children, playing piano, reading, and music. 

Dr. Mohammad Alsoub received his medical degree from University of Jordan Faculty of Medicine and obtained his specialization in Pulmonary and Critical Sleep Medicine at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas. He has been practicing for over 15 years.  When Dr. Alsoub is not at work he enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children.

Tonya McLaughlin received her B.S. in Nursing from Northwestern State University, Shreveport, LA, and her M.S. in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner Program, from Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.  Tonya is a Board certified Nurse Practitioner, specializing in Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine.  When she is not in the office she enjoys time with her husband and children. Tonya is a big soccer fan and you will also find her at the DCHS cheerleading functions.

Dr. Lohrasbi has over 20 years of professional experience in urology care. He attended Vanderbilt University for his undergraduate studies and attended Medical School at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Lohrasbi completed his internship and residency at the University of Louisville.

In addition to providing minimally invasive surgical procedures for his patients, Dr. Lohrasbi is a pioneer in utilizing robotic technology in surgery. He was the first surgeon to perform a procedure with robotics in the state of Tennessee. He has been a nationally-recognized instructor of robotic surgery since 2004.

Dr. Lohrasbi is certified through the American Board of Urology, and the Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is a member of the American Urological Association, American Urological Association Southeastern Section, and the American College of Surgeons.