Smith, who serves as the clinic’s volunteer medical director, oversees all clinical aspects of patient care, coordinates professional medical services, and provides direct medical supervision for the facility.
He has volunteered with the clinic since it opened in 1993 and has been its volunteer medical director since May of 2022.
Molly Jordan, executive director of the clinic, shared that Smith is the organization’s longest-tenured volunteer with over 2,100 hours during the more than three decades the clinic has been open. She adds, though, that the figure is probably low.
"I feel like I'm a real doctor here. I felt like I was a traffic cop when I left the practice," said Smith, who retired from his full-time position 11 years ago. "There are so many specialties now, it really made me feel like a traffic cop, constantly having to send patients here and there."
Smith jokes that he remains the clinic’s volunteer medical director to give his wife at least one day a week to be alone at home. He adds, though, “I felt like it was a shame not to use the knowledge I’ve gained over the years.”
"Dr. Smith has been invaluable to the clinic and our community for over 30 years," said Jordan. "He has served so many of our patients over the years, patients who may not have seen a doctor if not for him. His leadership ensures that the clinic continues to deliver high-quality care to uninsured and underserved residents of our community."
Of his patients, Dr. Smith says: “I like to think I’m their doctor. I feel totally appreciated. These folks are so appreciative of what we do.”
"This is big for the people we serve. For most, it's the only medical care they get."
Smith began practicing medicine in High Point in 1977. He was a founding partner of Cornerstone Health Care and practiced at High Point Internal Medicine Associates for more than 35 years. He earned his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and his undergraduate degree from Davidson College.
“Puttin on the Grits,” the clinic’s largest annual fundraiser, is scheduled for Saturday at St. Mary’s Episcopal Family Life Center. The breakfast celebration will feature restaurants from throughout the area preparing their signature grits dishes and raising critical funds for the clinic in the process.