Internal Medicine Residents
Meet the Residents
2026-2027 Third-Year Residents:
Benjamin Fitch, MD
Dr. Benjamin Fitch is from Inez, Kentucky. He completed undergrad at the University of Morehead with a dual degree in Biomedical Sciences and Mathematics. He completed medical school at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.
Dr. Fitch joined the Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital Internal Medicine Program in hopes to become a General Hospitalist. His motivation to become a doctor developed from his passion for learning and his desire to bridge the gaps in medical care. In his free time, he loves hiking local trails and visiting Red River Gorge. He also enjoys unwinding at home, hanging out with family and friends, and playing video games.
Jackson Hamilton, DO
Dr. J. Gray Hamilton is from Pound, Virginia. He completed his undergraduate studies at UVA-Wise with a BS in Biology. He completed medical school at LMU DCOM.
Dr. Hamilton hopes to become a General Hospitalist. He has a strong desire to care for others, especially those in rural unserved communities. Dr. Hamilton chose to pursue Internal Medicine at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital because of his deep connection to the Appalachian Region. Growing up here, he has seen firsthand how opportunities in this area are underrated yet hold immense potential. In his free time, he likes to travel to the beach. If he was not a doctor, he would be a cop.
Rachyl Harmon, DO
Dr. Rachyl Harmon is from Manchester, Kentucky. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky with a degree in Health Human Sciences and she completed medical school at LMU-DCOM.
Dr. Harmon hopes to become a General Hospitalist because the lack of quality care in Southeastern Kentucky. She chose the LCRH program because it is close to home and she has grown a strong connection to the environment and the people. In her free time, she likes to read, run, watch UK sports, and hangout with family and friends. She loves to listen to the cancelled podcast and spend time with her parents.
Abidell Hutchinson, DO
Dr. Abi Thomas Hutchinson is native to Breathitt County, Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University from the Honors College with a bachelor’s in biomedical sciences and a minor in Chemistry. She completed medical school at LMU-DCOM.
Dr. Hutchinson chose LCRH because she wanted to train with a medium sized program that had the complexity and care of a larger facility. She hopes to serve the people of Kentucky as a General Hospitalist. Growing up in rural Appalachia where health disparities are very apparent has motivated her to pursue this career. In her free time, she enjoys refurbishing furniture and spending time with her husband and dog. Her dream vacation is to ski in the Swiss Alps. If she wasn’t a doctor, she would be a house flipper.
Maegan Peach, DO
Dr. Megan Peach is native to Louisville, Kentucky. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Louisville with a BA in Biology and a BA in Spanish. She completed medical school at the University of Pikeville.
Dr. Peach chose LCRH not only because she is close to family but also because of the learning environment and the caring faculty. She hopes to become an Internist because she enjoys helping people live their best lives and hopes to care for people in their most difficult moments. In her free time, she likes to spend time with her family and husband, she also enjoys traveling to new places. Her favorite holiday is Christmas because she loves to see family, look at Christmas lights, and bake. Her favorite TV show is Ted Lasso or anything on HGTV.
Cody Robinette, MD
Dr. Cody Robinette is from Belfry, Kentucky. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky with a BA in Chemistry. He completed medical school at the University of Louisville SOM.
Dr Robinette hopes to become a PCP in Rural Kentucky. He wants to become a doctor to give back to Kentucky. He chose to pursue his residency at LCRH because of the family environment which helps him achieve his goals. In his free time, he enjoys watching the Kentucky Wildcats and he enjoys playing video games with his friends. He is inspired by his family and where he grew up in Eastern Kentucky and his hidden talent is playing golf.
Alec Werthman, MD
Dr. Alec Werthman is from Brainerd, Minnesota. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Florida with a BS in Biochemistry and a minor in Russian Language. He completed medical school at the College of Wisconsin.
Dr. Werthman hopes to practice as a general hospitalist in a rural setting. He has a strong interest in medical education and teaching non-medical people about health and science. His motivation to become a doctor started in 5th grade science class. He watched a video on HIV/AIDS and became interested in different types of diseases and the science behind it. He chose LCRH because it is close to his wife’s family and is located in a rural area. In his free time, he likes to make videos and animation. He enjoys drinking caffeine and going for runs.
2026-2027 Second-Year Residents:
JP Byrd, DO
JP Byrd, DO, hails from Manchester, KY, and is currently an intern at LCRH, pursuing a career in cardiology or emergency medicine. He completed his undergraduate studies with a BS (Honors) at Alice Lloyd College before attending LMU-DCOM for medical school. Driven by the motivation to make his parents proud, Dr. Byrd is deeply rooted in his community, which influenced his decision to work at LCRH. Outside of medicine, he enjoys tennis, spending time with friends, and cherishing memorable moments like lunch at the student table. With aspirations that extend beyond medicine, J.P. would have considered a career as a historian or nuclear physicist. He finds inspiration in his family and friends, lives by the quote, "Be good or be good at it," and dreams of visiting Australia or Italy.
Patricia Clem, DO
Tricia Clem, DO, hailing from Harlan, KY, is currently an intern at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital (LCRH), where she is focused on her residency in Internal Medicine. She earned her degree in Biomedical Sciences from Eastern Kentucky University, graduating magna cum laude as an Honors College graduate. Tricia's career goal is to practice inpatient medicine.
Her motivation to become a doctor stems from witnessing the need for healthcare providers in underserved areas of southeastern Kentucky. She chose LCRH for its unique blend of a smaller program atmosphere and the complexities of a larger facility, where the supportive community of physicians, staff, residents, and medical students has solidified her commitment to the medical field.
Outside of her medical training, Dr. Clem has a hidden talent for makeup artistry, having been hired for weddings, proms, and other special occasions, which serves as a creative outlet for her. If she weren’t pursuing a career in medicine, she would consider becoming a cosmetologist or a fiction book critic. She is a fan of the UK Wildcats and enjoys daily lunch dates in the cafeteria with fellow students and residents.
Ray Hays, DO
Ray Hays, DO, is an intern at LCRH, where he is training in internal medicine with plans to subspecialize in pulmonary and critical care medicine. Originally from London, Kentucky, he completed his BS in Biology at the University of the Cumberlands before attending LMU-DCOM. Inspired by his father, whom he considers his hero, Dr. Hays has always aspired to be a physician and serve the people of Southeastern Kentucky. He was particularly drawn to LCRH for its commitment to evidence-based medicine and its traditional approach to residency training, which he appreciated during his clinical rotations. Outside of medicine, Ray is a talented musician, enjoys playing music, and is a fan of the Kentucky Wildcats. His favorite memories include the moment he was accepted into LCRH and cherished family gatherings during Christmas. If not pursuing medicine, he would aspire to be a Navy Seal. He lives by the quote, “I’m not talking about making a living, I’m just talking about living,” and dreams of a vacation in Monument Valley.
Phillip Kumpf, DO
Phillip Kumpf, DO, hails from Cherry Hill, NJ, and is currently a PGY-1 at LCRH in the Internal Medicine residency program. He earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology, with a minor in Chemistry, from Rutgers University – Camden Honors College, graduating summa cum laude. Phillip's motivation to become a doctor stems from his desire to provide compassionate care, inspired by the impactful medical support he received as a child with Klippel-Feil Syndrome. While he is currently undecided on a specialization, he is leaning towards a career as a hospitalist. Outside of medicine, Dr. Kumpf enjoys playing video games, reading, and working out. He draws inspiration from his compassionate mother, wise father, and twin brother, who is also his best friend.
Tyce Riddle, MD
Hailing from Pikeville, KY, Dr. Tyce Riddle graduated from the University of Louisville School of Medicine (ULSOM) after completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and was honored with induction into the Lewis Honors College. He is currently pursuing his residency in Internal Medicine at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, aspiring to become an internal medicine hospitalist.
Dr. Riddle’s journey to medicine was inspired by personal experiences in the healthcare field, fueling his passion to help others. He chose Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital for its robust program that equips future attending physicians with the necessary skills for practice.
When he’s not focused on medicine, Tyce enjoys cooking and baking, cherishing time with his flame point Siamese cat named Cream. A fan of the UK Wildcats, he dreams of vacationing in Lofoten, Norway, enjoys the adventures of “Jurassic Park,” and finds inspiration in the world of “Westworld.”
Tyce admires influential figures such as Harrison Ford and values the wisdom of Winston Churchill, especially the quote, "Fear is a reaction, courage is a decision." If he weren’t a doctor, he would have pursued a career as a physical therapist.
Grace Ristau, DO
Grace Ristau, DO, hailing from Manchester, KY, graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from the University of Pikeville. Dr. Ristau's career goal is to become an internist while continuing to serve her community in Southeastern Kentucky. She is currently in her residency in Internal Medicine at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, where she feels she has found her true home after spending two years as a medical student there. Grace has developed meaningful relationships with attending physicians, residents, and peers, forming lifelong friendships with her soon-to-be co-residents.
Her motivation to become a doctor was inspired by a lifelong passion for science, nurtured by family stargazing sessions and visits to science museums. Dr. Ristau is married to her husband Will and shares their home with a Golden Doodle named Maggie. When not practicing medicine, she enjoys tropical vacations, decorating for Christmas, and indulging in her hidden talent for nail artistry. A fan of the UK Wildcats, she loves spending time with family, traveling, and visiting her favorite destinations. Grace admires her family and is inspired by them in her journey. If she weren't a doctor, she would pursue a career as a destination wedding planner.
Mayci Steele, DO
Mayci (Fullmer) Steele, DO, hailing from London, Kentucky, is currently an intern and resident physician in the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Eastern Kentucky University, graduating magna cum laude, and later attended Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Steele has long had a passion for medicine, inspired by a desire to provide accessible healthcare in underserved rural areas of Kentucky. She views her journey as a calling, fueled by the fulfillment she finds in serving her community.
Her positive experience during a four-week sub-internship at LCRH confirmed her decision to join the program, appreciating its supportive and family-like environment. Mayci is married to her husband, Jordan Steele, and they share a seven-year-old toy poodle named Nashville. Outside of her medical career, she enjoys weightlifting, reading, and spending time at the lake with her family, as well as baking and going for walks with her dog. An aspiring musician on the side, she enjoys turning words into songs and dreams of a vacation in Bora Bora. Dr. Steele is also inspired by every female physician who paved the way before her and cherishes Christmas for its nostalgic value and spiritual significance.
Kendall Yount, MD
Kendall Yount, MD, from Owenton, KY, is a PGY-1 resident in the Internal Medicine program at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. She holds an MD from the University of Louisville School of Medicine and an MBA from the College of Business, along with a B.S. in Biology from Centre College, where she graduated cum laude. Inspired by the compassionate physicians who cared for her father during her childhood, Dr. Yount has long aspired to be a doctor. She chose LCRH for its exceptional clinical training and the opportunity to forge strong community connections.
Outside of medicine, Kendall enjoys spending time in nature, scuba diving, hunting, skeet shooting, and crocheting. She shares her home with a five-year-old silver lab named Doc. A former U.S. National Team and Olympic athlete in Taekwondo, Kendall has a strong work ethic, inspired by her father's dedication. She enjoys Takis or pickles as snacks and prefers Monster energy drinks, particularly the Pipeline Punch flavor. Christmas is her favorite holiday because she enjoys the snow and cozy atmosphere. If she weren’t pursuing a career in medicine, she might consider dentistry. Dr. Yount believes in the quote, “The man on top of the mountain didn’t fall there” by Vince Lombardi, which reflects her dedication and commitment to her goals.
2026-2027 First-Year Residents:
Jasmine Hedayati, DO
Originally from Corbin, Kentucky, Dr. Jasmine Hedayati is a PGY-1 Internal Medicine resident at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. She earned her medical degree from the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she received the MWEK Manual Award and Academic Honors. Prior to medical school, she attended the University of Louisville, graduating magna cum laude with a degree in Biology.
Driven by the support and inspiration of her family, Dr. Hedayati pursued medicine with the goal of becoming a kind, competent, and well-rounded physician that colleagues would confidently recommend to their own loved ones. She chose Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital because of the strong impression the program made during her third-year medical school rotation, describing the experience as both educational and welcoming, with a culture that quickly felt like home.
Eric Iribar, DO
Originally from Cooper City, Florida, Dr. Eric Iribar is an Internal Medicine intern at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. He earned his medical degree from Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine and graduated magna cum laude from Florida State University with a degree in Biology. His career goal is to become a hospitalist, with plans to eventually focus on primary care.
Dr. Iribar was inspired to pursue medicine by a desire to help people through some of the most challenging moments in their lives. Outside of the hospital, he enjoys hiking, spending time with his two dogs, Jasmine and Lily, and cheering on the Miami Dolphins.
A fan of The Count of Monte Cristo, Scrubs, and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Dr. Iribar dreams of visiting Japan someday. He credits his grandparents as his greatest inspiration and values time spent with family above all else.
Dakota Jones, MD
Originally from McMinnville, Tennessee, Dr. Dakota Jones is a PGY-1 resident at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. He earned his medical degree from American University of the Caribbean and studied Molecular Biology at Tennessee Tech. His long-term goal is to pursue a fellowship in oncology and continue serving patients in meaningful ways.
Inspired by the physicians he encountered growing up and by his mother's career as a medical technologist, Dr. Jones was drawn to medicine through a desire to help others. He chose Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital because of his passion for rural healthcare and the opportunity to train in a setting similar to where he hopes to practice in the future.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Jones enjoys fishing, archery, and listening to music. A talented guitar and piano player, he says he likely would have pursued a career in music if he had not become a physician. He is inspired by the mentors who have guided him along the way and hopes to one day visit the Great Wall of China.
Gage Keck, DO
Originally from New Tazewell, Tennessee, Gage Keck is an Internal Medicine intern at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. He earned his medical degree from LMU-DCOM Harrogate and graduated magna cum laude from Lincoln Memorial University with a degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. He is currently considering a fellowship in either gastroenterology or cardiology.
Dr. Keck chose Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital because he wanted to train in an environment that would both challenge and support him. Having grown up in a rural community, he values the opportunity to learn in a setting where he can serve patients from similar backgrounds.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Keck enjoys spending time with his wife, Brooke, and their pets, Lincoln and Carrie. An avid outdoorsman, he says he would be a fishing guide if he had not pursued medicine, and his dream vacation is an Alaskan fishing adventure. He is also a proud fan of the Tennessee Volunteers and lives by the motto, “Energy and persistence conquer all things.”
Shannon Ripley, DO
Originally from Owls Head, Maine, Shannon Ripley is an incoming PGY-1 Internal Medicine resident at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. She earned her medical degree from LMU-DCOM and graduated magna cum laude from Husson University with a degree in Health Sciences. Recipient of both the Gold Humanism and Alpha Chi honors, Dr. Ripley plans to pursue a career as an internist and eventually complete a fellowship.
Growing up in a rural community inspired Dr. Ripley to pursue medicine and help expand access to healthcare in underserved areas. She chose Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital after completing a medical student rotation here, where she enjoyed the supportive culture and strong educational experience.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Ripley enjoys hiking, traveling, and baking desserts. She shares her home with two cats, Phoenix and Lil Kitty, and dreams of visiting Switzerland someday. Inspired by her mother's hard work and determination, Dr. Ripley brings a passion for service and rural healthcare to her residency training.
Hayden Stubbs, MD
Originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, Hayden Stubbs is an Internal Medicine intern at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. He earned his medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine and graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. His career goal is to become a well-rounded physician and pursue a fellowship that combines hands-on procedures with exceptional patient care.
Driven by a passion for science and serving others, Dr. Stubbs was drawn to medicine for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients and the communities he serves. He chose LCRH because of its strong sense of community, supportive learning environment, and hands-on training opportunities.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Stubbs enjoys spending time with his wife, Brittany, and daughter, Avery. He loves traveling, fishing, wakeboarding, hunting, and sports, and is known for cooking authentic Cajun meals. A dedicated New Orleans Saints fan, he hopes to one day visit Japan and credits his family as his greatest source of inspiration.
Jack Wilson II, DO
Originally from Beckley, West Virginia, and Beech Grove, Indiana, Jack Wilson II is an Internal Medicine resident at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. He earned his medical degree from the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he received the Gold Humanism Award, and holds both a bachelor's degree in Chemistry and a master's degree in Biology from Purdue University. His long-term goal is to become an oncologist.
Dr. Wilson's passion for medicine began early in life through the example of his father, a respiratory therapist, and later grew through his experience working in oncology. He chose LCRH because of its commitment to quality healthcare, strong community focus, and supportive residency environment that truly lives up to its family-oriented reputation.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Wilson enjoys hiking, spending time in nature, and staying active. He and his wife, Dr. Michaela Wilson, share a home with five rescue dogs. Inspired by his family and their unwavering support, Dr. Wilson brings a deep commitment to service, community, and compassionate patient care to his residency training.