Dr. Dean A. Smith

On one occasion specifically, I had what I thought was a cold/sinus infection. On the morning of the fourth day after taking a warm shower, I developed significant breathing issues. I called Dr. Smith's office at 8:30 a.m. explained to his nurse (Wendy) at the time what was going on. She scheduled a 10:00 a.m. appointment the same morning. Upon arrival I was met at the office door entrance by Dr. Smith's nurse (Wendy) and taken to the examine room. After being assessed by the nurse, Dr. Smith came in right away and assessed my condition. I was given the proper medication on site to minimize my breathing issues and prescribed oral medications for further treatment at home. The diagnosis was Viral Pneumonia. This happened well over a year before the catch phrase "COVID" ever became part of the media narrative.
I am totally convinced Dr. Smith's diagnosis was correct and with the immediate treatment given and prescribed medications I survived the illness. (Not true for 3 other individuals in our area who did not or could not see their doctors in a timely manner). There have been many other visits with Dr. Smith over the last 20+ years but being able to talk to the nurse and see my doctor at a very scary time and when needed is immeasurable. Four defining traits of Dr. Smith (1) His Medical Knowledge/Experience (2) His Ability and Willingness to Communicate and Listen to his Patient (3) Taking the time to answer and/or explain any questions asked by his Patient (4) You know he cares about his patient. Last but not least you do not feel you are under time constraints during the visit like many of my friends feel when seeing their doctors. I expressed to him recently at Thanksgiving "When thinking of the things I am most Thankful for he came to mind"