Program Leadership

Samuel K. Abshire, MD

Program Director - Rural Family Medicine

Abshire

Samuel Abshire, MD is a board-certified Family Practice physician with over 40 years of dedicated service in rural healthcare. Combining extensive medical expertise with a compassionate approach, Dr. Abshire has been a steadfast advocate for the health and well-being of his community. After earning his medical degree from Louisiana State University Medical School in Shreveport, he completed his residency and internship in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

In the early years of his career, Dr. Abshire and his wife, Camille, returned to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, where he established the Butler-Abshire Clinic. Now operating as a Rural Health Clinic in collaboration with Claiborne Memorial Medical Center, the clinic reflects his commitment to accessible, patient-centered care. Dr. Abshire’s practice extends far beyond the clinic walls; he serves patients at Claiborne Memorial Medical Center, Claiborne Addiction Recovery Center, nursing homes, and hospice care, often providing lifelong medical support to families.

In 2019, with a focus on addressing the opioid epidemic in North Louisiana, he collaborated with a team from Claiborne Memorial Medical Center to secure two federal grants that led to the establishment of the Claiborne Addiction Recovery Center. Known as the "CARE" Center, it opened in early 2021 and treats patients from across the state of Louisiana.

An active member of the community, Dr. Abshire has participated in numerous local organizations and served on various boards. Outside of his medical practice, he is a passionate outdoorsman and avid hunter. Together with Camille, he cherishes time spent with their three adult sons and their families. Locally renowned for his Fourth of July tradition, Dr. Abshire and his family proudly display hundreds of American flags around the family lake, symbolizing his deep connection to his roots and community.