Denise Smithem DNP-ANP-C

What made you want to become a health care provider or what is your earliest memory of wanting to be one?

I wanted to be a nurse from when I was very young.  I wanted to  help people and found medicine fascinating. 

What do you love most about your specialty? / Why did you choose your specialty?

I chose hospitalist medicine after a clinical rotation and found it to always be challenging with varied patients and new learning experiences.

How do you connect with your patients?

I try to connect through family-patients typically love to talk about their children and/or grandchildren.  They usually open up about health concerns when they feel a connection with the provider.

What are your interests outside of the office (hobbies, activities)?

I like biking, hiking, and reading.

What is your advice for your patients?

Take care of your body so it can take care of you!