Congratulations and Thank You Dr. Richard!

Celebrating Over Thirty Years of Exceptional Medical Care for Those Who Need Us the Most

Dr. James R. Richard has dedicated his life to serving the migrant and under-served communities in northwest Ohio.  He is passionate about his work, expects no recognition or thanks, and serves as a constant inspiration to all of us who have the honor of working with him. 

Since 1992, Dr. Richard has provided medical care at the Community Health Services (CHS) Migrant Farm Worker Clinic during the growing season.   Dr. Richard donated his time working in the clinic for 19 years, while serving as Program Director for a Family Practice Residency and Associate Dean for Clinical Education, NOEOUCOM, Barberton Campus.  

In 2011, Dr. Richard made the decision to focus full-time on "delivering the best possible care to those who need it the most."  He accepted a position with Community Health Services (CHS) and provided outstanding care for Fremont area residents for over 13 years.  In the summer months Dr. Richard continues to work at the CHS seasonal office in Willard, Ohio caring for migrant workers and their families.  

While he certainly has a variety of career opportunities, Dr. Richard chose to work in a Community Health Center and dedicate his career to caring for people who typically don't have a lot of options due to limited access or poverty.  Dr. Richard commented, "I try to imagine my loved ones being in a similar circumstance and how I would want a doctor to treat them.  Then, each day I try to do that for every patient I see."  

Dr. Richard's 40-year career includes serving in the US Air Force where he earned the rank of Major, Assistant Professor of Clinical Family Medicine, and Associate Residency Director.  Dr. Richard has been honored with numerous professional awards and recognitions and serves on a variety of academic committees.  

Dr. Richard also participated in Medical Mission trips to Honduras, Belize, and Ecuador.  He served as volunteer physician and faculty for Project "Hombro a Hombro" sponsored by University of Cincinnati and involves resident and medical student supervision, and patient care. 

Dr. Richard has served on the MHP Salud Board of Directors since 2014.  This is a migrant advocacy organization promoting the use of community health workers to assist migrant workers and family members in health education and health care access. 

Dr. Richard is a soft-spoken man with a big heart.  He's donated countless hours of his time and talent to improve the health and well-being of people who need help the most.  Dr. Richard keeps a note on his desk every day that reminds him to "be kind."  He said that it's there to remind him to focus back on what's most important:  Treat people with dignity, strive to help them be healthier and to feel a little better.  Dr. Richard is truly an inspiration.