Katie Norris Lakewood Health System (LHS) is once again hosting two Rural Physician Associate Program (RPAP) students.

Since October, Chad and Katie Norris have been shadowing and practicing with LHS Family Medicine Physicians, Dr. Christine Albrecht and Dr. David Freeman.

After the first six weeks, Chad and Katie will begin working along side specialists Dr. Carol Uhlman, OB/ GYN and Surgeons Dr. Sandra Hanson and Dr. Patricia Mahoney.

Originally from Duluth, Katie completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Benedict’s in St. Cloud before being accepted to the University of Minnesota, Medical School in Duluth. Her long-time aspiration to be a physician brought her to Staples for her RPAP experience.

“People come from all over to receive care at LHS,” said Katie. “I’m sure it’s because the system is so community focused and the doctors are so personable.”

Chad Norris Chad, an Oklahoma native, also made his way to the University of Minnesota, Medical School in Duluth, after a professor at Oklahoma University recommended he apply. Once in Duluth, Chad and Katie met in class and shortly began dating.

“Once we were engaged, our professors let us in on the secret of Staples,” said Chad. “They knew this town would be a great fit for us.”

Chad and Katie were married on Nov. 14, 2009. After only a few weeks at LHS, the couple expressed their interest in rural health care. “I didn’t know how specialized a rural health care system could be,” said Chad. “And the people all know each other. It’s the best of both worlds.”

LHS is one of many locations in Minnesota that RPAP students can attend. RPAP is a nine-month, community based educational

experience open to thirdyear

medical students enrolled in the University of Minnesota Medical School at the Twin Cities or Duluth campuses.

Students train under the supervision of family physicians and other physicians called preceptors. The goal of RPAP is to help expose medical students to rural medicine and to encourage students to practice in rural areas of Minnesota after graduation.

For information about the RPAP program at LHS, contact Craig Wolhowe at 218-894-8600.