SULPHUR, Okla. – Two doctors who successfully completed a multiyear residency through the Chickasaw Nation Family Medicine Residency Program were honored June 28 by tribal medical staff and leadership.
Alfred Laborde and Jack Norgren were praised for accomplishments, innovative services, dedication and professionalism during a special dinner evening at the Artesian Hotel Banquet Room. Each are Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.).
Dr. Laborde is a graduate of Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and served as co-chief resident from 2023-2024. His medical interests include sports medicine and preventive medicine. After completing his residency at the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center (CNMC), he accepted a position in San Antonio, Texas, as a family medicine physician.
“I was inspired to pursue medicine by witnessing my dad’s dedication to helping others through his work as a physician and driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives,” he said.
Dr. Norgren is a graduate of Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and also served as co-chief resident along with Dr. Laborde from 2023-2024.
Dr. Norgren’s medical interests include sports medicine, pediatrics and osteopathic manipulative medicine. He has accepted a position in Rockford, Michigan, as a family medicine physician.
“I was inspired to pursue medicine because of the care my mother received during hospitalization,” he said.
Dr. Marilyn Hines, director of the Chickasaw Nation Family Medicine Residency Program, commended the doctors for entering the program at a particularly challenging time.
“Both of them faced tough times,” she said.
They worked as a team and adopted the Chickasaw Nation’s “Can Do Attitude,” Dr. Hines explained.
“My only regret is that we could not hold on to them,” she said with a smile.
Both doctors have decided to return to their home states to practice medicine.
About the Chickasaw Nation Family Medicine Residency Program
The CNMC’s unique state-of-the-art facility and experienced medical staff provides the environment, skills and knowledge necessary for residents’ success. The CNMC provides residents with excellent opportunities to grow, both professionally and personally, through “hands-on” learning and evidenced-based medicine.
Talented staff, curriculum and strong commitment allow residents to serve the First American population while gaining a unique education. The Chickasaw Nation Family Medicine Residency Program trains competent and compassionate family physicians. The program’s philosophy is that family medicine is the foundation of all medical care.
The residency program is built upon core knowledge and skills derived from traditional medical principles and surgical models. The program’s approach is designed to consistently deliver quality care that is patient-centered, personal and comprehensive.
Seasoned doctors who guide residents strive to provide training that emphasizes fundamental principles of family medicine. This includes comprehensive and holistic service, cultural sensitivity and care that is of the highest quality.
The program provides an environment for residents to learn in the hospital, ambulatory and community settings. By doing this, residents master the ability to provide a full scope of care for their patients during residency and during their career after graduation.
Doctors interested in fulfilling their residency within the expanding number of health facilities, programs and services of the Chickasaw Nation can visit Chickasaw.net/CNFMR.
From this webpage, visitors will find links to criteria and applications, as well as information regarding curriculum, facilities, faculty and staff, salary, benefits and the community surrounding the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center.