We are pleased to announce that Dr. Earl Stewart Jr. has accepted the role of medical director of health equity at Wellstar.
Dr. Stewart, a native of Augusta, graduated with honors from Mercer University and Meharry Medical College. He completed his internal medicine residency at Brown University. His clinical interests include heart disease prevention, the effects of the environment and climate on health, health equity and the connection between spirituality and medicine.
He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the National Medical Association, the American Association for Physician Leadership and the Arnold P. Gold Foundation for Humanism in Medicine. He actively serves in various capacities at both the state and national levels with these organizations.
"Growing up in Augusta, I saw family members in rural areas near Augusta struggle to access healthcare,” Dr. Stewart said. “That experience shaped my desire to improve access to care, which remains a key driver for me today."
His passion for making a difference is rooted in the belief that everyone should have access to the care they need, no matter where they live or their background. This personal connection continues to fuel his dedication to creating more inclusive healthcare.
"Many of us from underrepresented groups pursue medicine to advocate for equitable healthcare for those with similar experiences,” said Dr. Stewart on the importance of community care. “Despite advancements in care, these issues still persist."
In his new role, Dr. Stewart will partner with executive leadership and nursing teams to develop strategies for fostering diversity, equity and inclusion at Wellstar, leading initiatives to improve patient experiences, enhance cultural competency, boost employee engagement and strengthen community partnerships.
Dr. Stewart emphasized collaboration and innovation saying, "We are working to implement the PREVENT (Predicting Risk of cardiovascular disease EVENTs) tool to more accurately assess cardiovascular risk for patients,” he said. “We are also gearing up for the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment to improve care, clinician data resources, and partnerships focusing on addressing the health care needs for all we serve, especially underserved groups."
Additionally, Dr. Stewart will help guide the Wellstar Center for Health Equity in addressing social determinants of health and reducing disparities.
"Improving diversity, equity and inclusivity in healthcare is no longer optional for health care systems—it's a requirement,” said Dr. Stewart. “Accreditation, certification and reimbursement all depend on it and we must embrace this new reality."
Reflecting on his roots, Dr. Stewart is ready to give back to the community he grew up in. "I'm thrilled that these initiatives will extend to Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center, Wellstar Children's Hospital of Georgia and Wellstar Georgia Cancer Center in Augusta, where I first learned the ropes and prepared for a career of practicing medicine."
