Award recognizes Turner’s commitment, service

Medical Center faculty and staff often are recognized regionally, nationally and internationally for their academic or medical achievements. These accolades place UMMC among health science centers worldwide.

Faculty member earns distinguished physician honors 

Dr. Justin Turner, UMMC assistant professor of preventive medicine and community health officer for UMMC’s Cancer Center and Research Institute, has accepted the 2025 Distinguished Physician Award from the Mississippi Medical and Surgical Association. 

The association named Turner this year’s honoree for his commitment to excellence, service to communities and dedication to advancing medicine throughout Mississippi. 

MMSA is the state chapter of the National Medical Association, which strives to eliminate disparities in health. 

Turner, a board-certified internal medicine physician and the former chief medical officer of the Mississippi State Department of Health, has been recognized throughout his career for his public health advocacy.  

After earning his medical degree in 2008 from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, he completed his internal medicine residency at UMMC. Turner joined the Department of Preventive Medicine in June 2025.