Alumni Spotlight- Dr. Ben Hudson

Published on Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Dr. Ben Hudson, Class of 2005, began his post-residency career on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, where he faced an unexpected challenge just months after settling in: Hurricane Katrina. The disaster damaged local hospitals, leaving limited power and resources, with many of his colleagues suddenly homeless. In the following years, Dr. Hudson committed himself to the Singing River Hospital system as a full-time emergency physician, contributing to the region’s recovery and providing critical care for over a decade.

After a period of personal transition, Dr. Hudson shifted his focus to prioritize a more balanced life with his children. This led him into the field of addiction medicine, where he became board-certified. Today, his practice is centered around clinical addiction medicine, focusing on co-occurring mental health and addiction issues. Additionally, Dr. Hudson performs court-ordered psychiatric and substance abuse evaluations, where his medical expertise and life experience have proven invaluable. Through his work, he found both a new path and a new life partner—his wife, who was an attorney and is now a Chancery Court Judge.

Outside of his practice, Dr. Hudson enjoys a rich family life with his wife and six children. They reside in a scenic home overlooking the Pascagoula harbor, where they frequently host gatherings. A former marathon and triathlon runner, he now enjoys outdoor activities, cooking Indo-Mediterranean cuisine, and working on projects with his wife, an avid DIY enthusiast.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Hudson believes that emergency physicians are uniquely qualified to work in addiction medicine and finds his work deeply fulfilling. Looking ahead, he hopes to continue making a difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction. His advice to new graduates is to stay grounded, be open to unexpected changes, and focus on work-life balance, which he notes can be challenging but incredibly rewarding.

When asked about his residency days, Dr. Hudson recalls memorable moments with colleagues and mentors. He remembers Dr. Cox accusing him of launching the department helicopter as a joke (which has never been confirmed), setting a mouse trap in the back work station to handle the one of the rodent visitors, which startled Dr. Kolb, and Dr. McKenzie returning from military service and re-adjusting to civilian life. He fondly remembers Dr. Jackson and Dr. Woodward for their steady guidance, and Dr. Galli, who kept the group entertained with his humor even on the busiest shifts.