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Our Physicians

Meet Our Physicians

Experienced, Dedicated and Board-Certified Physicians

At G.I. Associates of West Alabama, our team of board-certified gastroenterologists is dedicated to providing exceptional care for all your digestive health needs. Each of our physicians brings a wealth of knowledge, extensive training, and a compassionate approach to patient care.

Trained at some of the nation’s leading medical institutions, our experts are committed to staying at the forefront of medical advancements to deliver the highest quality care. Get to know our experienced and dedicated team of specialists who are here to support you on your journey to better health.

C. Donald Howe, M.D., Pharm. D.

Dr. Howe is board-certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology. He attended the University of Tennessee in Memphis. Dr. Howe completed his fellowship at the University of Kentucky in Gastroenterology. Dr. Howe is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and American Society for…

J. DeWayne Tooson, M.D., FACP, FACG, CPE

Dr. Tooson was born and raised in Tuscaloosa and is a product of Holy Spirit Catholic School and the Tuscaloosa City School System. He specializes in gastrointestinal bleeding, colon cancer prevention and inflammatory bowel disease. He also serves as Chief Administrator Officer…

Jennifer R. Palmer, M.D.

Dr. Palmer joined GI Associates of West Alabama in August 2015. She received her undergraduate from Louisiana State University and went on to medical school at Louisiana State University at Shreveport. She completed her internship and residency at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her fellowship was performed…

Michael L. Palmer, M.D.
Dr. Palmer works in Tuscaloosa, AL and specializes in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine. Dr. Palmer has privileges at DCH Regional Medical Center.
Rachel A. Taylor, M.D.

Dr. Taylor is board-certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology. She attended Baylor University for her undergraduate degree and Baylor College of Medicine for medical school. She completed her residency in internal medicine at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans and her fellowship at the University of….

Carmen V. Lopez, M.D.

Dr. Lopez is a board-certified physician in gastroenterology as well as internal medicine. She attended Duke University and University of South Alabama College of Medicine. Dr. Lopez completed her residency in internal medicine at Tulane University and her fellowship in gastroenterology and hepatology at the University of Cincinnati…

Stephenie Dillard, M.D.
Dr. Dillard works in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She is a board-certified Pathologist and joined G.I. Associates of West Alabama in 2020.

Emeritus Physicians

Donnie Smith, M.D.
Dr. Smith graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1980. He works in Tuscaloosa, AL and specializes in Gastroenterology. Dr. Smith has hospital privileges at DCH Regional Medical Center.
W. Gardner Rowell, M.D.
Dr. Rowell graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1982. He works in Tuscaloosa, AL and specializes in Gastroenterology. Dr. Rowell has hospital privileges at DCH Regional Medical Center.
S.B. Sundar, M.D.
Dr. Sundar graduated from Madras Medical College, Chennai. He has received the Patients’ Choice Award (2012, 2014) and the Compassionate Doctor Recognition Award (2012, 2014).

COVID Update

G.I. Associates of West Alabama strives to make the health and safety of patients our top priority. If you have an appointment scheduled with us and exhibit the following symptoms we kindly request you reschedule your appointment and contact your primary care provider: fever, shortness of breath, and cough. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. Thank you for your cooperation!