Episode 5: Debunking the myth of majority medicine to better serve the community

Faith Against Stigma Episode 5In Episode Five of the Faith Against Stigma Podcast, Dr. Brian Shackleford of Old North State Medical Society,  discusses their work in combating HIV stigma through faith-based initiatives. As a medical doctor, Dr. Shackleford shares his personal experience diagnosing and treating HIV patients while also relying on faith for restoration and healing. He contends that faith can play a powerful role in healing.  Further, listeners are encouraged to approach those living with HIV with the same grace and compassion they would want for themselves, rather than judging them.  Stigma surrounding HIV include the misconception that heterosexual sex is not a risk factor, as well as the fear of rejection from partners and communities, particularly in the Black Church.  Dr. Shackleford explains the need to integrate faith and medicine more fully.Featured Guests:DR. BRIAN A. SHACKLEFORD Is a Durham native who has chosen to give back by providing equitable care to vulnerable populations within his community. His role as a fledgling caretaker for his grandmother as a youth opened his eyes to his calling of service. Brian obtained both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology from North Carolina Central University before attending Wake Forest University School of Medicine. After graduation from medical school, Brian entered residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.As a resident, Brian served on numerous committees focused on wellness, diversity and inclusion, medical curriculum, clinical competency and residency steering. He was chosen to serve as assistant chief of medicine after the completion of his residency in 2019. After his chief year, Shackleford opened a practice as a primary care physician in Greensboro, NC. He was afforded the opportunity to partner with Old North State Medical Society (ONSMS) as lead physician in Guilford County in their COVID-19 vaccination efforts and was highlighted as a speaker on a White House town hall for his efforts. Brian now serves as the ONSMS president.The COMPASS Initiative® Faith Coordinating Center, at Wake Forest University School of Divinity, focuses on educating and preparing ministry and nonprofit leaders to address HIV and faith in the Southern US. Through the Center, the Black Faith & HIV Initiative is a signature program of the School of Divinity and works to empower faith communities to address HIV and other health disparities and promote whole-person wellbeing.