Dr. J. Eric Ragan II, MD

Media Releases

Blending Skill and Passion to Elevate Care for Columbus and Surrounding Areas

J. Eric Ragan II, MD, is a dedicated emergency physician and esteemed educator within the Internal Medicine Residency Program at St. Francis-Emory Healthcare. With over 30 years of experience in the medical field, Dr. Ragan has become a vital asset to the Emergency Department, serving the diverse needs of Columbus, Georgia and its surrounding communities.

Dr. Ragan’s comprehensive educational background began at Andrew College, where he earned an Associate of Science Degree in 1985. He continued his studies at Mercer University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology in 1987. His pursuit of medical excellence culminated at Morehouse School of Medicine, where he received his Doctor of Medicine Degree in 1992. This strong foundation in education laid the groundwork for a successful medical career.

After completing a residency in family medicine at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center from 1992 to 1995, Dr. Ragan became a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Medicine and joined esteemed organizations such as the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians. His commitment to continual learning and professional development is evident in his active participation in these organizations.

In addition to his clinical duties, Dr. Ragan has held several key medical director roles, showcasing his leadership in emergency medical services (EMS). Currently, he oversees EMS operations for Columbus Fire & EMS (since 2015), Marion County EMS and EMS Care Ambulance Service (both since 2018), First Response EMS and Taylor County EMS (both since 2020). Dr. Ragan also assumed the medical director for Cusseta-Chattahoochee County and Stewart County EMS in 2022 when their long-time director retired and more recently added Talbot County EMS in 2023. Furthermore, his role as Medical Director for Trinity EMS Academy since 2013 emphasizes his commitment to training the next generation of emergency medical professionals. He was honored with the Charles B. Gillespie, MD Distinguished Georgia EMS Medical Director Award in 2022.

Dr. Ragan is also dedicated to his community, serving on the Board of Trustees for Andrew College in Cuthbert, Georgia. He believes that the foundation of quality healthcare lies in treating patients with compassion and respect, akin to how he would want his own family treated.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Dr. Ragan II enjoys managing his grandfather’s farm in Randolph County, where he fosters a tree farm for pine production and creates a sanctuary for wildlife. His dedication to both his profession and personal interests reflects a well-rounded individual committed to making a positive impact in both healthcare and his community.

Recommended Articles

• Facts About Meningitis Vaccines

  IntroductionThe only way to prevent serious and life-threatening diseases such as meningitis is through vaccination. Meningitis can also be caused by viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. The infection usually affects the meninges or membranes that enclose the brain and spinal cord. Although...

• What Is a CPK Lab Test?

  What is creatine phosphokinase (CPK)?Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) is an enzyme, which is predominantly present in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscles. Converting creatine into phosphate is the main task of this enzyme. The cells of the body then quickly consume or burn this phosphate and use it...

• What Is a GI Cocktail?

  Introduction A GI cocktail or gastrointestinal cocktail is a mixture of liquid antacid, viscous lidocaine, and an anticholinergic agent. A GI cocktail is primarily used to treat dyspepsia.There are a wide variety of GI cocktail recipes nowadays. One popular recipe is a mixture of viscous lidocaine,...

• Leukocyte Esterase Test

  Leukocyte Esterase Urine TestLeukocyte esterase (LE) is an esterase produced by white blood cells (WBCs) or leukocytes. A leukocyte esterase test is a urine test used to detect the presence of white blood cells and other health conditions associated with infection.Normally, leukocyte esterase...

• Copperhead Snake Bites: What Does It Look Like?

  Copperhead snake bites are one of the frequently reported snakebites annually. However, they are rarely fatal. Most of the time, snakebites happen when people accidentally step on or touch snakes, which are excellent at blending into their surroundings. When copperhead snakes are disturbed, they...

• What is the encephalitis causes and prevention?

  What is encephalitis?Encephalitis means inflammation of the brain. Fever, headache, and joint pain are often experienced in the early stages of encephalitis. Other severe symptoms may develop over some days or hours. They include personality changes, seizures, disorientation, confusion, or...