St. Luke’s Hospital announces that Dr. Jeffrey Viar has joined the St. Luke’s Physician Network (SLPN). SLPN, a subsidiary of St. Luke’s Healthcare Inc, was created in 2008 to ensure local access to general and specialized medical services. The network now includes family practice, general surgery and orthopaedic services. Dr. Viar joins Dr. Jim Holleman and Dr. Augustus “Gus” Dozier of Holleman Surgical and Dr. Brian Rosenberg of Rosenberg Bone and Joint.

Originally from Florida and no stranger to Polk County, Dr. Viar has served patients in his Columbus office, Foothills Medical Associates, for 11 years.

“I love being a family physician,” said Dr. Viar. “I had one day where I treated a one-week old baby that morning and ended my day with a 100-year-old patient. I love the variety and being able to help all people. By joining the St. Luke’s Physician Network, I will be able to continue to serve my patients just as I have been doing.”

Dr. Viar, his staff and physician assistant Janet Howell assure patients that they will not see any differences.

He will also remain very involved in the Polk Wellness Center as the medical director and physician for the center. Polk Wellness Center provides a holistic approach, using an integrated model offering primary care and mental health care for those in need with no insurance or inadequate insurance.

Dr. Viar is board certified in family medicine. He’s a member of the American Osteopathic Association, the American Academy of Family Practice and the American Medical Association.

Receiving his undergraduate degree from the Southern College in Tennessee, he attended the University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kansas City, Mo., where he obtained a doctorate of osteopathy. He completed his family medicine residency at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.

“As the medical community comes together to ensure healthcare remains accessible, St. Luke’s Physician Network will allow for improved capabilities, resources, efficiencies and quality through clinical integration and coordination of care,” said Ken Shull, president/chief executive officer of St. Luke’s Hospital. “This affiliation will better prepare our physicians and our hospital for impending reform in healthcare delivery and reimbursement.”

When Dr. Viar is not seeing patients in the office, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Angela, and their children, 12-year-old Christopher and 10-year-old Nicholas. They enjoy anything outdoors, including hiking and camping. Dr. Viar also enjoys photography.

Foothills Medical Associates is located at 801 W. Mills St. in Columbus.