CHILLICOTHE, Ohio, July 1, 2025 — Adena Health’s commitment to enhancing patient care and access is further solidified as three members of its 2025 residency class have opted to remain with the health system post-graduation. This decision, celebrated at a recent ceremony for 15 residents, underscores the strength of Adena’s graduate medical education program.
Jeff Graham, Adena’s president and CEO, praised the accomplishments of the graduating class, emphasizing a lasting connection with the institution. “No matter where you choose to go, you’ll always have a home at Adena,” he remarked. For three graduates, that home will continue to be in south central and southern Ohio.
New Beginnings at Adena Health
The three graduates who have chosen to stay with Adena include Chase Alfman, DO, Taylor Boll King, DO, and William O’Neal, MD. Dr. Alfman, a graduate of Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, will join Sound Physicians as a hospitalist. Dr. King, from the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, will serve as both an inpatient and outpatient psychiatrist, also joining the psychiatry core faculty within Adena’s graduate medical education program. Dr. O’Neal, a graduate of Indiana University School of Medicine, will become the inaugural fellow in Adena’s new primary care sports medicine fellowship.
Resident physicians at Adena are fully credentialed doctors who undergo specialized training after earning their medical degrees. They gain hands-on experience through residency programs in family medicine, internal medicine, and psychiatry, as well as the primary care sports medicine fellowship. The supportive learning environment and exceptional mentorship at Adena have been frequently cited by residents as key reasons for staying.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Since its inaugural class of six residents in 2012, Adena’s residency program has expanded significantly in both size and reputation. The program’s incoming class in July will include 16 new resident physicians and one fellow, with recruits hailing from diverse locations such as California, Florida, Texas, and Puerto Rico.
Over the past four years, 10 physicians from Adena’s residency program have joined its medical staff, a testament to the program’s success in fostering professional growth. Dr. Alfman reflects on his experience, stating, “The guidance, expertise, and unwavering support of the faculty and staff at Adena have been the cornerstone of our growth as physicians. They have pushed us to rise to challenges and inspired us to pursue excellence in medicine.”
“They have not only imparted knowledge, but also taught us the compassion and resilience that are essential to serving our patients.” — Dr. Chase Alfman
The Impact on Local Healthcare
This development represents a significant boost to healthcare in south central and southern Ohio, areas that benefit from the presence of skilled medical professionals. Adena Health, an independent, not-for-profit healthcare system, has been committed to its mission of serving the community for over 125 years. With four hospitals, a network of over 40 locations, and more than 3,300 employees, Adena provides comprehensive services ranging from emergency care to advanced specialties.
By retaining talented physicians like Drs. Alfman, King, and O’Neal, Adena Health not only strengthens its medical staff but also ensures the continued delivery of high-quality, compassionate care to over 368,000 residents across nine counties.
Looking Ahead
The decision of these three physicians to remain with Adena Health highlights the program’s ability to attract and retain top talent. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, Adena’s focus on education and community service positions it well for future challenges and opportunities.
For more information about Adena Health, its healthcare providers, and its full range of services, visit Adena.org, or follow them on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, or X @adenamedical.
