New Physician-in-Practice Spotlight: Ryan M. Smith, DO

College of Osteopathic Medicine:

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Detroit, Michigan

Other Education:

Former EMT

Residency Program:

Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital. Warren, Michigan

What is the name of where you currently practice, what is the setting and population you serve?

Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital Oakland Primary Care Family Medicine Residency. Warren, Michigan. Serving a diverse, suburban population.

Why did you choose family medicine?

Family medicine is the only specialty that builds a special connection with patients through all walks of life. The proverbial "from the womb to the tomb" is truly an accurate description of what we do as family medicine physicians. What other specialty has this benefit?! It is what truly sets us apart and patients gravitate towards that level of understanding and connection. Also, every case is different, and you have to be up to date on all facets of medicine. The opportunity to practice lifelong learning is a challenge I enjoy trying to conquer!

What is a typical day like in your life as a new physician in practice?

Serving in academic medicine, each day is filled with new tasks. Typically, I spend a portion of the day precepting cases and teaching with residents and medical students. Additionally, I see and treat my own patients in the outpatient family medicine clinic. On some days, I am also rounding in the inpatient setting with our OMM consultation service. The diversity of tasks is what makes the academic field of family medicine intriguing and enjoyable!

Are you currently involved in national ACOFP on a committee or volunteer role?

I serve on the ACOFP Convention Planning Task Force and have served in task force initiatives as well. I will be elected during the 2024 ACOFP Congress of Delegates as the inaugural New-Physician-in-Practice Governor for the ACOFP Board of Governors.

What committee or leadership role do you hold and what role/s have you held in the past?

Chair of the ACOFP Resident Council, Resident Governor, Director-MAOFP, Chair-Wellness Committee, and Education Committee Chair-MAOFP.

What have you volunteered for, on a state or national level, and how did it impact you?

Aiming to volunteer in any initiative that impacts family medicine physicians, I have served on numerous committees and initiatives on a local, regional, and national level. It truly is rewarding in the aspect of service that it provides an opportunity to pour into the future generations of family medicine physicians in a way that many who have come before me poured into me.

What is your one word of advice to residents?

Aim to be 1% better every day no matter what circumstances come your way. If you challenge yourself to be a proactive, self-directed, lifelong learner, you'll be better suited to overcome any obstacle.

When was the first time you realized you wanted to be a physician?

I witnessed a traumatic accident of a close friend in high school that changed the trajectory of his life. It was at that moment I realized the power of osteopathic connection that could help provide guidance to an individual and their family as medical challenges became anew. I wanted to serve as that person for patients to confide in during the most challenging times of their lives and hope to provide understanding, guidance, and hope.