About
Dr. Lauren Southward grew up on a family ranch in Southern Oklahoma and attended Ringling High School. She earned her undergraduate degree at Oklahoma State University. She then graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in the top quartile of her class. She completed her Family Medicine residency at Great Plains Family Medicine in Oklahoma City and served as Chief Resident in her final year.
After residency, Dr. Southward returned to Ardmore in 2003 and opened her own private family medicine practice. In 2012, she joined the staff of Cross Timbers Hospice and has since worked across both hospice and family practice. Her clinical focus spans family practice, geriatrics, hospice and end-of-life care, and chronic disease management. She describes family medicine as her calling. She takes a hands-on approach and values educating patients so they can live healthier, more preventive lives. She believes each patient teaches her something no textbook ever could.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
Oklahoma State University
Medical School
University of Oklahoma College of Medicine
Residency
Family Medicine, Great Plains Family Medicine, Oklahoma City (Chief Resident, final year)
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Southward right for?
Dr. Southward serves patients across all ages, from children to older adults. Patients managing chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease benefit from her long-term, relationship-driven approach. She is a strong fit for geriatric patients and families seeking continuity of care. Patients navigating end-of-life planning or hospice needs also find her experience invaluable. Those who want an engaged, hands-on physician focused on prevention and education will feel at home under her care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Southward focuses on family medicine, geriatric care, chronic disease management, and hospice and end-of-life care. She treats conditions including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. She also provides full-scope family practice for patients of all ages.
Dr. Southward holds a Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, where she graduated in the top quartile of her class. She completed her residency in Family Medicine at Great Plains Family Medicine in Oklahoma City and served as Chief Resident in her final year.
Dr. Southward has practiced medicine in Ardmore since 2003. She returned home after residency and opened her own private family medicine practice. She has served the Ardmore community and surrounding areas for over two decades.
Yes. Dr. Southward cares for patients across every stage of life. She describes caring for patients from birth through geriatrics as one of the most rewarding aspects of family medicine.
Dr. Southward takes a hands-on, patient-centered approach. She focuses on education and partners with patients to help them prevent disease and maintain healthy lifestyles. She believes patients themselves are one of the most valuable sources of medical insight.
Yes. Dr. Southward joined the staff of Cross Timbers Hospice in 2012. Since then, she has worked across both hospice and family practice. She brings deep experience supporting patients and families through end-of-life care.
Dr. Southward grew up on a family ranch in Southern Oklahoma and attended Ringling High School. She studied at Oklahoma State University and then earned her medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She completed her residency at Great Plains Family Medicine in Oklahoma City.
Yes. Dr. Southward offers telehealth appointments for members who need remote access to care. Same-day and next-day visits are also available for urgent or acute needs.
Doctor profile last updated June 11, 2026