NATCHEZ — Rick Jeansonne, M.D., a family physician with The Family Medical Center, has achieved the degree of fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the national medical association representing more than 94,000 family physicians, residents and medical students.

Established in 1971, the AAFP degree of fellow recognizes family physicians who have distinguished themselves through service to family medicine and ongoing professional development.

Criteria for receiving the AAFP degree of fellow consist of a minimum of years of membership in the organization, extensive continuing medical education, participation in public service programs outside the medical practice, conducting original research and serving as a teacher in family medicine.

The AAFP was the first national medical specialty organization to require its members to complete a minimum of 150 hours of accredited continuing medical education every three years. It is the only medical specialty society devoted solely to primary care.

Jeansonne is one of only two family physicians in Natchez to obtain the degree of fellow. The other physician is Dr. Jerry Iles who is also with The Family Medical Center.