Welcome from the Program Director

I am thrilled to share that I will be joining East Alabama Health as the Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency. It is an honor to become part of the dynamic and growing Auburn–Opelika community, and I am genuinely excited about the opportunities ahead.

I bring 25 years of experience in teaching, leadership, and inpatient care, and I am eager to continue the program’s legacy under current leadership and our dedicated faculty.

I am deeply passionate about teaching and learning every day. My recent roles include founding the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Crestwood Medical Center and serving as the Designated Institutional Official (DIO) and Associate Program Director at North Alabama Medical Center. In these positions, I witnessed firsthand the impact of mentorship, teamwork, and a shared vision for excellence in graduate medical education. I look forward to bringing that same commitment to our program at East Alabama Health as we strengthen resident education, expand clinical experiences, and cultivate a supportive environment for learning and professional growth.

Auburn–Opelika has a remarkable energy—a blend of community spirit, a family feel, innovation, and dedication to patient-centered care—and I am truly excited to call it home.

I look forward to working with each of you as we build upon the program’s strong foundation and continue to serve our patients and community with excellence.

Thank you for the warm welcome I’ve already received. I’m eager to get started and to meet you all soon.

Warm regards, 

Akram Haggag, M.D.