Why Training Rural Matters: From Residency to Community Impact

Choosing where to train is one of the most important decisions a physician will make. It shapes not only clinical skills, but also perspective, confidence, and long-term career direction. Rural training at its core is deeply rooted in community need and the story of Seven Peaks Family Medicine illustrates why rural training matters.

Founded by graduates of the MAHEC Boone Rural Family Medicine Residency (Drs. Knox and Stevens class of 2024, Dr. Karimy class of 2025) Seven Peaks represents the natural extension of practicing where you train. Their practice in West Jefferson, North Carolina, reflects the same values emphasized during residency: comprehensive care, continuity, and a commitment to meeting patients where they are. By choosing to stay in the region where they trained, these physicians are helping address rural workforce shortages while strengthening access to high-quality family medicine in Ashe County. Here at MAHEC Boone we are proud to have been a part of their training and are excited to watch their practice grow and see the lasting impacts in the High Country. Read more here about the Trailblazers of NC 2025.

From left (Dr. Knox, Dr. Karimy, Dr. Stevens) graduates of MAHEC Boone Rural Residency

Application Season is Here!

Fall has arrived and we’re thrilled to welcome a new season of applicants to the MAHEC Boone Rural Family Medicine Residency Program!

First and foremost, thank you to everyone who has applied to interview with us. We’re excited to meet each of you — and to share what makes training in the High Country such a special experience.

During your visit, we hope you’ll see why rural training matters — and how it shapes compassionate, capable physicians ready to serve communities everywhere. We also hope you’ll take a little time to enjoy what Boone has to offer: crisp fall hikes, mountain views, local coffee shops, and the welcoming energy that defines our town.

We’re also excited to share our brand-new website, built to give you an inside look at who we are — from the incredible training opportunities across our clinics and hospitals to the residents and faculty who make this program feel like family.

We can’t wait to meet you and show you firsthand why Boone is such a great place to learn, live, and grow as a family physician.

Warmly,

The MAHEC Boone Family Medicine Residents and Faculty

Welcome..

We’re glad you’re here!

This space is your window into the life, learning, and community impact of our rural family medicine residency in the heart of Boone, North Carolina. Whether you’re a prospective student, a current resident, a healthcare professional, or simply someone passionate about rural medicine, our blog is designed to connect you with the people, places, and stories that shape our program.

What You’ll Find Here

Student & Resident Education – Insights from our classrooms, simulation labs, and bedside teaching. From procedural tips to point-of-care ultrasound techniques, we’ll share the skills and strategies that prepare physicians for full-scope rural practice.

Resident & Community Engagement – Stories of how our residents partner with local organizations, lead community health projects, and bring high-quality care to patients in both clinic and hospital settings.

The Rural Healthcare Perspective – Conversations about the unique challenges, rewards, and innovations in delivering care to rural populations.

Why We’re Doing This

We believe rural healthcare thrives when people share knowledge, experiences, and inspiration. This blog is our way of opening the doors to our residency’s day-to-day reality—celebrating successes, reflecting on challenges, and highlighting the incredible work being done in our community.

Welcome to the journey.