About
Ryan Forbess, MD is a board-certified family physician practicing in Orange Beach, Alabama. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2000 and completed pre-medical science coursework at Tennessee State University in Nashville. He went on to earn his Doctorate of Medicine from St. Matthew's University School of Medicine in Grand Cayman in 2010. Dr. Forbess completed his internship at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in 2012. He then finished his Family Medicine residency there, earning the role of Chief Resident from 2012 to 2014. The American Board of Family Medicine certifies him, and Alabama licenses him to practice.
Before joining the MDVIP network, Dr. Forbess served as Chief of Medicine at South Baldwin Medical Center in 2016 and taught as an Assistant Professor in the Physician Assistant Program at Bethel University. He is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Heart Association. In 2023, he received the Art for Heart Medical Honoree award. His clinical interests include cardiovascular health, diabetes, hypertension, hormone therapy, weight management, and preventive medicine. Dr. Forbess has volunteered extensively throughout his career, including work with Special Olympics, Surfers Healing, and Habitat for Humanity. Outside medicine, he enjoys SEC football, surfing, playing guitar, BBQ competitions, golf, and hiking.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
University of Tennessee at Martin, B.S. Psychology (2000); Tennessee State University, Pre-Medical Science (2003)
Medical School
St. Matthew's University School of Medicine, Doctorate of Medicine (2010)
Residency
Family Medicine, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Chief Resident (2012-2014)
Additional Training
Internship, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine (2011-2012)
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Forbess right for?
Dr. Forbess is a strong fit for adults seeking a long-term relationship with a community-based family physician. Patients managing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, or hormone disorders benefit from his focused clinical expertise. He works well with individuals who want a personalized health plan that addresses both current conditions and future risks. His Orange Beach location suits Gulf Coast residents who value a physician with deep local hospital ties.
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Family MedicineFrequently Asked Questions
Dr. Forbess focuses on cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, hormone disorders, and weight management. He also emphasizes preventive medicine as a core part of his clinical approach. His clinical interests span both chronic disease management and proactive health planning.
Yes, the American Board of Family Medicine certifies Dr. Forbess. He completed his Family Medicine residency at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, where he served as Chief Resident.
Dr. Forbess earned his medical degree from St. Matthew's University School of Medicine in Grand Cayman in 2010. He completed both his internship and Family Medicine residency at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, finishing in 2014 as Chief Resident.
Yes, Dr. Forbess holds hospital privileges at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center in Foley and Thomas Hospital in Fairhope. He previously served as Chief of Medicine at South Baldwin Medical Center in 2016. These affiliations reflect his long-standing presence in the community.
Dr. Forbess has practiced in the Gulf Coast community for over a decade. That tenure has allowed him to build strong relationships with local specialists and hospitals.
Dr. Forbess partners with each patient to build a personalized action plan. That plan addresses existing health concerns and works to prevent new ones. He treats patients in a warm, family-oriented atmosphere and recognizes that each person's path to better health is unique.
Yes, Dr. Forbess received the Art for Heart Medical Honoree award in 2023. He is also a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Heart Association.
Yes, Dr. Forbess served as an Assistant Professor in the Physician Assistant Program at Bethel University from 2010 to 2011. He also volunteered as a Resident Physician at a free acute care clinic and a women's health services clinic from 2011 to 2014.
Doctor profile last updated June 6, 2026