The founding father of Suncoast Family Medical Associates, Dr. Russell Patterson has practiced medicine in the Largo area for 40 years and is board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians. He came to Largo in 1965 to perform his intemship at Sun Coast Hospital after graduating from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri.

Medicine was a family affair for the Pattersons as both his father and brother were physicians. Dr. Patterson has served on staff at Sun Coast Hospital and Largo Medical Center. A family practitioner who believes in listening to, and not just treating, his patients, Dr. Patterson's outstanding medical reputation led to his election by his peers to the post of Chief of Staff for Sun Coast Hospital from 1995-96.

He has also served on the Board of Trustees for the hospital and for the Pinellas County Osteopathic Medical Society. Other professional affiliations include the American Osteopathic Association and the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association.

Dr. Patterson and his wife Vivian have been active participants on the National Republican Senatorial Committee Inner Circle with meetings in Washington, D.C. The Pinellas County Osteopathic Medical Society is proud to announce that Russell J. Patterson, DO, has been awarded the Alan J. Snider, DO Lifetime Achievement Award for 2005.