Magnolia Regional Health Center’s Emergency Medicine Residency program has earned international recognition after winning the prestigious Kevin Rogers World Cup at the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM) Games, held April 12 in Seattle, Washington.
Competing against leading emergency medicine programs from around the world—including teams traveling from as far as India—the Magnolia Regional team distinguished itself through a combination of clinical knowledge, teamwork, and performance under pressure.
The four-member team, competing under the name “Sweet Tea And Ketamine,” included residents Corey Abdeen, DO (PGY-3), Jeff Johnson, DO (PGY-2), and Jay Patel, DO (PGY-1), under the mentorship of faculty advisor Alex Hampton, MD, FAAEM.
The competition began with a rapid-paced emergency medicine knowledge round, where teams were required to complete a 40-question exam in just 10 minutes. Magnolia Regional advanced into the Top 8 and was placed into the simulation bracket, where participants are evaluated on real-time clinical decision-making in high-acuity scenarios.
In the simulation rounds, the Magnolia Regional team defeated Lakeland Regional before advancing to the Final Four, where they overcame defending champions Florida State University. In the championship round, they faced New York University’s team—winners of the ultrasound competition—and secured the overall victory to claim the international title.
“This team demonstrated exceptional composure, clinical reasoning, and teamwork at every stage of the competition,” said Dr. Alex Hampton, faculty mentor. “Watching them compete against top programs from around the world and come out on top was an incredible moment and a testament to their hard work and preparation.”
In addition to the team’s championship win, MRHC EM residents also earned national recognition in the AAEM Poster Competition.
Samantha Castillo, DO (PGY-3), was selected as a Top Poster presenter—ranking among the top 12 in the nation—for her project titled “May-Thurner Who?” Jay Patel, DO (PGY-1), also had a poster accepted for presentation, titled “Saved By The Bell’s Palsy.”
Hospital leadership noted that these accomplishments underscore the growing reputation of Magnolia Regional Health Center’s residency program on a national and international stage.
Wendy Hurley, Administrative Director of Graduate Medical Education, highlighted the significance of the achievement for both the institution and the community.
“This is a proud moment for our institution and our community,” Hurley said. “Our residents are not only excelling in competition but are also contributing to the advancement of emergency medicine through research and academic achievement.”
Magnolia Regional Health Center continues to expand its role in graduate medical education, with a focus on excellence in patient care, innovation, and physician training.
