2023-2024 PM&R Residents

PGY-1

Olivia Tincher, DO

Hometown: Fayetteville, GA

Medical school: Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine

Internship: TTUHSC 

PM&R interests: Pediatrics, Pain Medicine, Brain Injury

Hobbies/Personal Interests: Outdoor adventures, camping, hiking, skiing, reading

Why TTUHSC/Lubbock: I was looking for a program with strong rural ties and a pediatric focus and that’s exactly what the TTUHSC PM&R program provides. As our program continues to grow, we hope to improve medical access for the people of West Texas. Lubbock is full of great people that provides a strong sense of community. Likewise, our program focuses on fostering the relationships between residents and faculty, so we have ample opportunity for learning and mentoring. 

David Wilkins, DO

Hometown: Denver, Colorado

Medical school: Rocky Vista University

Internship: TTUHSC

PM&R Interests: General Physiatry, Pain, Sports Medicine, SCI/TBI, Electromyography

Hobbies/Personal Interests: Golfing, biking, hiking, TTU Athletics, Hockey

Why TTUHSC/Lubbock:  I was very fortunate to do an away rotation at TTUHSC and immediately knew I had found the place I wanted to train. The faculty were incredibly resident focused, eager to teach, and provided a diverse patient population. As TTUHSC serves such a large area of West Texas, it gives the trainees and excellent opportunity to treat medically complex patients across all aspects of Physiatry. 

PGY-2

Lexi Neighbors, MD

Hometown: Midland, TX

Medical school: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine

Internship: Cleveland Clinic Florida Internal Medicine Preliminary Year

PM&R interests: General Physiatry, Sports Medicine, Traumatic Brain Injury

Hobbies/Personal Interests: Group fitness, baking, pub trivia

Why TTUHSC/Lubbock: One of my main reasons for joining TTUHSC PM&R is that I really align with the mission of increasing the presence of PM&R in West Texas, improving access to healthcare, and giving back to the community I grew up in. Also, the faculty is diverse in teaching strengths/styles to fit any learning type, and they are all incredibly supportive and motivated to contribute to each resident's individual success. Additionally, being part of a small program really allows for the family-type feeling and strong bonds between our residents. Finally, I've lived in Lubbock for over 8 years in total, and there is no place I'd rather be. Lubbock is the perfect "big-small town" that provides a great foodie scene, entertainment ranging anywhere from sporting events to concerts, and an excellent sense of community.

Merritt Crump, MD

Hometown: Plains, TX

Medical school: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine

Internship: University of California Riverside Internal Medicine Preliminary Year

PM&R Interests: General Physiatry, EMG, Neuromuscular Ultrasound, Sports Medicine

Hobbies/Personal Interests: Sports, video games, hiking, exercise, traveling.

Why TTUHSC/Lubbock: For me, Lubbock has always been home. I always knew I wanted to end up living and practicing in the area for many reasons. The people are great, there's plenty of things to do, and the cost of living is hard to beat. Whether you have a family or its just you and your two cats, Lubbock is a great place to live. Having graduated from TTU and TTUHSC SOM, I knew I would receive quality training at a TTUHSC residency. I chose TTUHSC PM&R because it would give me the chance to train in the area I plan to practice in, as well as to increase the presence of Psychiatry in an underserved area. The faculty are passionate about their fields, both patient and resident-centered, and also very down to earth. My co-residents are the type of people I not only enjoy working with, but I love hanging out with outside of work. The atmosphere of the program is one of learning and fun. It's a little cliché but TTUHSC PM&R really does feel like a family. I am excited to be part of the group that will heavily influence the future of Physiatry in West Texas.