Full Circle: Reflections from the First Graduating Class of the IRMC Family Medicine Residency

In this special episode of Rural Health Pulse, we reconnect with the inaugural class of the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) Family Medicine Residency Program as they prepare to graduate. Joined by Program Director Dr. Amanda Vaglia and residents Dr. Mohit Chhatpar, Dr. Tanvi Bharathan, Dr. Nawar Al Janabi, and Dr. Robin Rodriguez, we reflect on the growth, challenges, and rewards of practicing rural medicine. The residents share candid insights into what surprised them most, what they’ve learned, and how the experience has shaped their future paths—from addiction medicine to geriatrics to family medicine with obstetrics. Dr. Vaglia also discusses the program’s broader impact on the hospital and community, and the legacy this first class leaves behind. This conversation is a powerful look at the promise of rural medical education and the passion that drives tomorrow’s rural physicians.