Kerrington D. Smith, MD

My work isn’t done until we have a cure for cancer. I’m focused on improving each patient’s experience through customized, research-guided healthcare. I want my patients to know that I am on their side. I do everything I can to ensure they’re well cared for with the latest and greatest in treatment. That includes my research and focus on strategies that prevent metastasis. In my office, each patient is treated based on their one-of-a-kind needs and life circumstances. For those with metastatic disease, helping them live as long and well as possible is my top priority. For individuals in the early stage of the disease, it might mean giving them minimal therapy to cure them without adding long-term side effects. I love watching patients hit important milestones. The times when a patient moves forward—healthy and happy after the strain of cancer—are a win for us all. No matter the situation, we work together. I want my patients to understand what’s happening, why and what their options are. I achieve that by sharing information, listening and empowering my patients to take control of decision-making and their overall health. Knowledge helps manage expectations. It also helps my patients find their strength and voice again. Watching them regain control of their lives is a wonderful thing.

My goal is to provide state-of-the-art, individualized care that is rooted in respect and compassion. I strive to develop a strong patient-physician relationship. Since each patient defines success differently, I work closely with my patients to help them achieve their own personal success story. I spend time with them during each visit to understand their concerns. It is important that everyone involved in their care—the patient, their family, their providers—understands the diagnosis and treatment options. By working together, we make a plan that will achieve the best possible outcome from their care. Developing close, long-term relationships with my patients throughout the highs and lows of their care is very rewarding.

I love working with older adults and their families. I enjoy helping my patients meet their goals so they can live as well as possible, no matter what medical problems they are dealing with. It can be easy to get lost in our country's complicated and imperfect medical system. Patients deserve to have doctors who really listen to their needs and help them coordinate their care between providers. I work hard to communicate with my patients, understand their wishes, and help them get the care they need. Before coming to Dartmouth-Hitchcock, I worked for the Indian Health Service in New Mexico for 4 ½ years. Working in a resource-limited setting and learning cultural humility helped me become a better doctor.