"Start with You Being Okay" with Dr. Walkitria Smith

In this conversation, Dr. Walkitria Smith shares her journey into medicine, emphasizing the importance of addressing stress and mental health in patient care. She discusses her personal experiences that shaped her career, the significance of representation in healthcare, and the holistic approach of family medicine. Dr. Smith highlights the evolution of medical practice, the role of technology in healthcare equity, and the challenges of leadership in the medical field. The discussion underscores the need for self-care among healthcare providers and the importance of effective communication in diverse teams. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of investing in oneself as a leader, the significance of self-care and wellness routines, and the benefits of spending time in nature. They discuss the role of technology in enhancing efficiency in healthcare and the critical need for mental health support through therapy. The conversation wraps up with personal reflections and advice for younger selves, emphasizing authenticity and self-acknowledgment.Biography:Dr. Walkitria Smith is a native of Mobile, Alabama. She is no stranger to the Atlanta community; she holds a B.S. from Spelman College and an M.D. from Morehouse School of Medicine. She completed her residency at Chesterfield Family Practice in Richmond, Virginia during which she served as Chief Resident while holding a dual teaching appointment at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine.As a physician and community health advocate Dr. Walkitria Smith has dedicated her life to reducing health disparities through education, primary care, and preventive medicine. Dr. Smith's clinical and medical research interests include women’s health and pediatrics, preventive and lifestyle medicine with a strong focus on diet, exercise, and living a holistically healthy life. She also has a strong interest in chronic disease, particularly empowering patients to navigate their diagnosis through health education.Dr. Smith is a distinguished member of the American Board of Family Physicians and the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians. In addition to her leadership roles in local community organizations, she is a devoted wife and mother who enjoys cooking and traveling.