Highlands Medical Center

Honoring a Bright Star:
Alan Drake, MD, Highlands Medical Center
Recipient of Tennessee Hospital Association’s Meritorious Service Award

Serving his patients, his community and his local hospital since August of 1985, Dr. Alan Drake has been honored with a “Meritorious Service Award” by the Tennessee Hospital Association. Nominated by Highlands Medical Center, Dr. Drake has maintained one of the busiest primary care practices in White County for the past 25+ years.

Since completing his medical training and moving to Sparta, Tennessee, Dr. Drake and his wife, Sheree, have raised two sons, who are now pursuing their own dreams, grown his independent practice, and has given generously to the community, the hospital and his church.

A gifted leader, Dr. Drake has served in numerous leadership roles at Highlands Medical Center, including as Chief of Staff, a member of the Board of Trustees, as Physician Advisor for the hospital , a member of the Physician Leadership Group (PLG) and a member of Capella’s National Physician Leadership Group.

He has been extremely involved in this group and has contributed significantly to the hospital’s continued success. That leadership, compassion and commitment to his patients often carries over in his service to the community.

For many years, he has been the volunteer physician for the White County School District, performing athletic physicals free of charge for any student athlete in need of the service. While the hospital provides an athletic trainer at many of the sporting events, Dr. Drake is frequently seen on the sidelines and on the field providing additional medical expertise. He truly cares about the students and is willing to assist wherever necessary to be sure they are safe in their sports.
Dr. Drake is also actively involved in his church, where he serves with the music and drama ministries, teaches and has participated in a number of medical mission trips. Along with his wife, he has served on mission trips to Peru, the Bahamas, Swaziland, Sumbawa, and Brazil.

Bill Little, CEO Highlands Medical Center says, “Dr. Drake has a belief that each individual is important and uniquely gifted and he has a positive influence on everyone he meets; whether it is a child, a teen or an adult. Through his daily interactions, leadership roles and personal commitments, he encourages people to use their talents, positions and service opportunities to the very best of their abilities – and always for the betterment of the community.”