Karen R. Smith, MD
Internal Medicine
Hospital Affiliations
Lafayette General Medical Center, Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center, Louisiana Extended Care Hospital
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MDVIP Annual Membership Fee
MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments. Payment options vary by physician.
Quarterly
$500.00*
Semi-Annual
$1,000.00*
Annual
$2,000.00*
About Karen R. Smith, MD
I believe a key component to happiness is good health. The best way to achieve better health is to have a doctor who knows you and cares about you and your health goals.
My approach is to get to know you personally. I will sit with you, listen to you, assess your health, educate you and together we will formulate a plan specific to you work towards the best healthcare experience possible.
I am a board certified internal medicine doctor with specific interest in early illness detection, preventive medicine, geriatric medicine, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease and COPD. I limit the number of patients in my practice to ensure we have the time needed for your individualized care. Similar to conveniences often associated with concierge medicine practices, I also offer same- or next-day appointments that start on time. I admit my patients to Lafayette General Hospital and work with specialists as needed to give my patients full comprehensive care.
Residency
University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
San Francisco, CA
Internal Medicine 1997-1999
San Francisco, CA
Internal Medicine 1997-1999
Medical School
University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
San Francisco, CA
Doctorate of Medicine 1996
San Francisco, CA
Doctorate of Medicine 1996
Postgraduate
University of California
Berkeley, CA
Masters of Science, Health and Medical Sciences 1994
Berkeley, CA
Masters of Science, Health and Medical Sciences 1994
Undergraduate
University of North Carolina
Chapel Hill, NC
Bachelor of Science, Zoology 1986
Chapel Hill, NC
Bachelor of Science, Zoology 1986
American Board of Internal Medicine
Lafayette General Medical Center
Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
Louisiana Extended Care Hospital
Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
Louisiana Extended Care Hospital
Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics Subcommittee, Lafayette General Medical Center 2013-present
Castle Connolly Exceptional Women in Medicine, 2020-2024
Top Doctor, Castle Connolly 2015-2024
Louisiana Physician EQ Health Capstone Quality Award 2010, 2011
Top 10 Internists in Lafayette, Rate MDs list 2012-present
H.P.V. Wilson Award, University of North Carolina 1986
University of California
- Medical Student Award, American Federation for Clinical Research 1994
- Excellence in Research Award, Western Student Medical Research Committee 1994
Top Doctor, Castle Connolly 2015-2024
Louisiana Physician EQ Health Capstone Quality Award 2010, 2011
Top 10 Internists in Lafayette, Rate MDs list 2012-present
H.P.V. Wilson Award, University of North Carolina 1986
University of California
- Medical Student Award, American Federation for Clinical Research 1994
- Excellence in Research Award, Western Student Medical Research Committee 1994
Louisiana State Medical Society
Lafayette State Medical Society
Lafayette State Medical Society
Louisiana
Professional Interests
- Preventive and Wellness Care, cost containments in outpatient and inpatient care, Comprehensive Health Care and Geriatrics
Personal Interests
- Dogs, exercise, fresh air, sunrise, beaches, gardening and photography
- Preventive and Wellness Care, cost containments in outpatient and inpatient care, Comprehensive Health Care and Geriatrics
Personal Interests
- Dogs, exercise, fresh air, sunrise, beaches, gardening and photography
Benefits of joining Dr. Smith's practice with MDVIP
MDVIP Wellness Program
Expect comprehensive screenings and tests and a custom wellness plan designed for you.
Better Doctor-Patient Relationship
97% of MDVIP members are satisfied with their relationship (vs 58% in traditional PCP).
Same/Next-Day Appointments
See Dr. Smith quickly and take your time during each appointment.
Reachable 24/7
Reach Dr. Smith by phone after-hours and on weekends.
Smaller Practice Size
MDVIP practices are smaller than most primary care practices, which means your doctor has more time to help you.
Your Dedicated Doctor
See Dr. Smith when you go to the office — not someone else like a nurse practitioner or physician assistant
Travel Benefits
If you need urgent care while traveling, your physician can help arrange your care with a local hospital, pharmacy or doctor.
Medical Centers of Excellence
For patients who need care beyond what is available locally, MDVIP can connect your doctor with specialists at some of the country’s leading medical institutions
Better Health Outcomes
Members have better control of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.
The office of Karen R. Smith, MD
Hours
| Mon | 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Tue | 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Wed | 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Thu | 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
| Fri | 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
| Sat | Closed |
| Sun | Closed |
What our members are saying
In 2020, Dr. Karen Smith felt a lump in my abdomen, and I was subsequently diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I underwent surgery in an out-of-town hospital. I had some post-operative complications and ended up staying in the hospital much longer than anticipated. It was very lonely and very scary, being in an unfamiliar city, in an unfamiliar hospital, and being near the beginning of the COVID…
March 24, 2024
My side by side radiator blew up in the field and had bad burns and was heading back to my house while trying to call Dr. Karen Smith and she answered right away and guided me through the emergency process. She let me know I was about to go into shock and to call an ambulance asap. Through my recovery process and trips to the burn unit, Dr. Smith called me everyday to check on me. She and Ms.…
March 8, 2024
Dr Karen Smith was incredibly wonderful when my husband became terminally ill. Kind and gave him all of the time he needed for exceptional care. She would have his office visits on Friday when no other patients were seen at that time to keep him from exposure to other diseases. She called for ongoing updates when he was being seen by other specialists out of state. I can not express how fortunate…
February 19, 2024
Doctor Smith and her staff have been wonderful with my medical care for about 20 years. Examples. 1st visit 55 minutes, many after hours calls to wife with cancer, most complete physicals from start, always able to walk into office or call and get answer, have Dr. and nurse personal phone numbers, both accept calls are call us after hours to check when I’ll, best smiles and Hugs you have ever…
February 19, 2024
Reviews from the web
06/18/2026
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Best g.p. I have ever had as my doctor. Her concern for her patients goes beyond the most thoughtful. She spends time with you, treats you like an old friend. She's knowledgeable in many areas, thorough in evaluating problems. Always available. And! She loves dogs.
03/28/2026
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When I arrive the entire staff knows why I am there and how I like my coffee. When I ran out of meds on a Sunday I was able to call Dr Smith and she called in the prescriptions immediately. She and her staff are always kind and attentive. I am never made to feel rushed or risibly ignorant. If Norman Rockwell were still alive my experience would be material for a Saturday Evening Post cover. I certainly never thought I would look forward to a wellness appointment.
03/18/2026
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Dr Smith is always timely, informed, caring and detail oriented.
03/11/2026
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Very Professional & friendly atmosphere when I walk into the office. Staff & Dr Smith always concern about my health problem. Feel as though they are part of my family. I recommend anyone to go to her. She's my favorite doctor and will ever leave her for another Doctor
02/25/2025
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I love my doctor. I can talk to her about anything, asking her questions of things that concern me. She'll go into an explanation for me to understand.
03/28/2024
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Great Doc. Cares about ME & goes the extra mile to take care of my medical needs !
02/14/2024
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Dr. Karen Smith was my primary care physician for several years before she converted her practice to an MDVIP concierge practice. Since the conversion, she has given me much more time and attention, which I appreciate. She seems very relaxed and personable while helping me with my healthcare concerns. Any questions I have had she has answered them or found answers to them for me. I will continue to be her patient as long as I am able.
02/23/2023
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Dr.Smith is a very caring and knowledgeable doctor. She goes far beyond the medical care I’ve received in the past and I had good doctors before. She attends to the total patient - physically,
mentally, and emotionally. It’s a pleasure to have her as my doctor-
I know that my health and wellness are her top priority and she has a very engaging personality.
mentally, and emotionally. It’s a pleasure to have her as my doctor-
I know that my health and wellness are her top priority and she has a very engaging personality.
02/21/2023
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I got to be Dr Smith's patient at a critical time. My home was destroyed because of Hurricane Laura and I was living with a relative. I contracted COVID but to move at the same time. I got sicker and ended up spending 5 days in the hospital with COVID pneumonia. I'm in a new city and I have a new doctor but we can't meet face to face. I can't thank Dr Smith and her assistant Denise enough for the care and concern during this time. I'd give her 10 stars if I could!
02/21/2023
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Dr. Karen is a physician who shows genuine concern and compassion. She takes great personal interest in her patients and attempts to get us to do the best we can for our health and wellbeing! She is always honest about my personal health and sincere in giving me the best possible recommendations for my wellbeing. The world would be a much better place with more people like Dr. Karen Smith.
Thank you Dr. Smith for all you have done for me and my family!
Thank you Dr. Smith for all you have done for me and my family!
12/14/2022
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Dr. Smith is very thorough and caring. Takes time necessary to explain all health concerns. Her staff is excellent and very caring.
They are all very accessible.
They are all very accessible.
09/30/2022
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Dr. Smith is the best physician. She takes her time, listens to my concerns and helps me problem solve.
09/28/2022
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Dr. Smith and her staff take the time to get to know you and really look into meeting all of your health needs -- even those also handled by a specialist.
08/14/2022
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Thank you so much for your kindness & compassion every time I came for my appointment or when I’ve called you. You are a wonderful listener which I’ve found rare in a physician. You have always addressed my medical concerns. There are not enough words to express my appreciation. Also, a big thanks to Denise - I’ve been with you both for many many years & feels like family with each visit!
03/22/2022
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Absolutely fabulous physician. The MD VIP concept is just perfect for me. Completely comprehensive and limited patients so plenty of time for complete understanding of your health. Plus interfacing with the Cleveland Clinic creates a methodology which over time tracks all your medical metrics. It is this tracking which can catch changes (which usually occur small at first). I cannot recommend Dr. Smith highly enough. She is a great fit for me.
03/19/2022
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She is always available at my beck and call(not that I contact her often)and her assistant and staff are also so helpful. I never feel like I am bothering anyone if I have a question. My husband and I are so lucky to have her support.
03/18/2022
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Dr. Karen Smith is a true professional in every manner !
03/17/2022
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An excellent resource, and one that has helped me considerably. In traveling a lot, and in sudden illnesses...the MDVIP program and Dr. Smith have been there whenever it was needed. The wellness and annual physicals have been much (much) more comprehensive than anything I have had in the past. Thank you for such great support and service.
02/17/2020
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Dr. Smith and her staff are amazing. I’ve called for simple questions and I’ve called her cell when I've needed. Dr. Smith knows my history and is always helpful, professional, kind, and truly concerned about keeping me in good health. Lately I've had some challenges and I am most grateful to have Dr. Smith on my side.
02/17/2020
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Dr, Smith is a very good and empathetic listener. She always displays genuine interest in the quality of life and how she can improve it for her patients.
02/17/2020
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Dr. Karen is a caring, intelligent and lovely young woman. She has surpassed the care I expected, love her and really hope she outlives me, ( I'm 83 so I'm pretty sure that's a sure bet)
10/22/2019
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Dr Smith and her staff are wonderful.
09/18/2019
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Dr Smith is a participating physician in the MDVIP program. I’ve been a patient of hers for 12+ years and couldn’t be more satisfied with my medical care. She is extremely thorough and stays abreast of changes in the medical realm, and is never in a hurry. She spends an hour or more with me on a routine visit and uses the time to educate me on issues pertinent to my own health. She is also aware of the cost to her patients of prescription drugs and medical tests.
I’d give her more than 5 stars if I could.
I’d give her more than 5 stars if I could.
02/18/2019
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Dr. Smith is extremely thorough in looking into all of the medications, symptoms, and possible side effects and/or interactions of each and every drug, supplement, or treatment being utilized. She is extremely knowledge and most interested and willing to search for the best treatment protocol for the individual patient's wants and needs.
Additionally, Dr. Smith's medical staff go over and beyond to ensure that her patients are well taken care of, comfortable, and that the patient understands what is being done or needs to be done.
Additionally, Dr. Smith's medical staff go over and beyond to ensure that her patients are well taken care of, comfortable, and that the patient understands what is being done or needs to be done.
09/21/2018
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I have only been a patient of Dr. Smith for 5 months, but right away I knew that I had made the right decision about my health care. She is exactly what I was looking for in a doctor. She is very caring and thorough. All of my visits have been about two hours, long enough to really get to know the patient and her needs. She follows up on all advice that she gives and really wants to see me succeed in getting on track in many areas like diet, exercise, and medications. The advice that she has given has been right on the money with specialists that I am seeing. I feel that I am finally in good hands with someone who cares about my total health. It is very easy to reach Dr. Smith if there is a question. In addition, her office staff is extremely friendly and helpful. They follow up promptly with results of tests, appointment reminders, and prescriptions. My husband is also going to Dr. Smith and he likes her very much and has confidence in what she says. I am so glad that we decided to go with MDVIP and that we picked Dr. Smith.
03/22/2018
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Patient for 18 plus years. Wellness type pratice. Easy to talk to about about health and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Doctors who operate in the MDVIP models typically see far fewer patients than traditional primary care doctors. That gives them more time to develop deeper doctor-patient relationships that can lead to better outcomes. They can also offer conveniences that most primary care doctors can’t, including same- and next-day appointments. They’re available after hours for urgent matters. And they have time to focus on prevention. That focus begins with the MDVIP Wellness Program, which patients pay for with their annual membership fee.
Most MDVIP-affiliated primary care practices accept insurance (your physician can tell you whether they accept your specific insurance plan). Your annual fee pays for preventive care medical services that insurance usually doesn’t cover (e.g., advanced diagnostic testing and screenings). Your MDVIP-affiliated physician will continue to bill your insurance and charge copays, co-insurances and deductibles as he or she currently does for other medical services like sick visits.
MDVIP makes wellness and prevention easier by providing your physician with innovative tools and technology. MDVIP supports your physician’s practice and seeks to eliminate barriers to a positive healthcare experience. Your doctor will determine whether and how to incorporate these tools at his/her discretion.
**The message above is a personal introduction from the physician, intended to help you get to know them better. The views, opinions, and statements expressed above are solely those of the physician and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of MDVIP. This content is intended for general background purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any mentions of expertise or quality of care are personal expressions and should not be interpreted as guarantees of performance or outcomes.