Primary Care That Makes You Primary

Karen R. Smith, MD

Internal Medicine

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4.8/5 29 reviews

More about Dr. Smith

call 1.866.696.3847

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Smith.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly

$487.50 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual

$975.00 every 6 months*

Annual

$1,950.00 each year*

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone Number*

ZIP Code

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Residency

University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
San Francisco, CA
Internal Medicine 1997-1999

Medical School

University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
San Francisco, CA
Doctorate of Medicine 1996

Postgraduate

University of California
Berkeley, CA
Masters of Science, Health and Medical Sciences 1994

Undergraduate

University of North Carolina
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

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

Louisiana 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

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What 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 pandemic. Dr. Smith called me several times while I was in the hospital, just to see how I was doing and to offer words of encouragement. She also sent several TOY text message - I had to ask her what that meant and she told me it stood for "Thinking of You". I am now more than three years out from surgery and doing well. I remember being in the hospital and how Dr. Smith's tangible concern for me and for my husband was so important. She helped us get through that most difficult time and I am eternally grateful.

Lani

Patient of Karen R. Smith, MD

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. Denise are very personable and truly care about the wellbeing of their patients. They go above and beyond for me and I appreciate all that they do for me especially at a last minutes notice and meet my every need as a patient.

Nancy

Patient of Karen R. Smith, MD

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 both of us are to have her on our team for a good life. I continue to see her for myself she since she began her practice here in Lafayette, Louisiana too. She is always available to answer questions and keeps me healthy with her office evaluations, and encourages me to continue my exercises, waking 3-5 miles, yoga and healthy diet. I am in good health at 75 and take no medications except for an occasional respiratory infection. Great partner in my health!

Karen Kay

Patient of Karen R. Smith, MD

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly

$487.50 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual

$975.00 every 6 months*

Annual

$1,950.00 each year*

Meet 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.

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What 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 pandemic. Dr. Smith called me several times while I was in the hospital, just to see how I was doing and to offer words of encouragement. She also sent several TOY text message - I had to ask her what that meant and she told me it stood for "Thinking of You". I am now more than three years out from surgery and doing well. I remember being in the hospital and how Dr. Smith's tangible concern for me and for my husband was so important. She helped us get through that most difficult time and I am eternally grateful.

Lani

Patient of Karen R. Smith, MD

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. Denise are very personable and truly care about the wellbeing of their patients. They go above and beyond for me and I appreciate all that they do for me especially at a last minutes notice and meet my every need as a patient.

Nancy

Patient of Karen R. Smith, MD

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 both of us are to have her on our team for a good life. I continue to see her for myself she since she began her practice here in Lafayette, Louisiana too. She is always available to answer questions and keeps me healthy with her office evaluations, and encourages me to continue my exercises, waking 3-5 miles, yoga and healthy diet. I am in good health at 75 and take no medications except for an occasional respiratory infection. Great partner in my health!

Karen Kay

Patient of Karen R. Smith, MD

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Smith.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly

$487.50 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual

$975.00 every 6 months*

Annual

$1,950.00 each year*

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone Number*

ZIP Code

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Primary Care That Makes You Primary

A new healthcare model to suit your lifestyle

Benefits of joining Dr. Smith's practice with MDVIP

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MDVIP Wellness Program

Expect comprehensive screenings and tests and a custom wellness plan designed for you.

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Better Doctor-Patient Relationship

97% of MDVIP members are satisfied with their relationship (vs 58% in traditional PCP).

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Same/Next-Day Appointments

See Dr. Smith quickly and take your time during each appointment.

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Reachable 24/7

Reach Dr. Smith by phone after-hours and on weekends.

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Smaller Practice Size

MDVIP practices are smaller than most primary care practices, which means your doctor has more time to help you.

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Your Dedicated Doctor

See Dr. Smith when you go to the office — not someone else like a nurse practitioner or physician assistant

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Travel Benefits

If you need urgent care while traveling, your physician can help arrange your care with a local hospital, pharmacy or doctor.

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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

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Better Health Outcomes

Members have better control of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.

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.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly

$487.50 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual

$975.00 every 6 months*

Annual

$1,950.00 each year*

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Smith.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly

$487.50 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual

$975.00 every 6 months*

Annual

$1,950.00 each year*

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone Number*

ZIP Code

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Reviews from around the web

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03/17/2022 – Timothy Osborn

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.

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09/18/2019 – Cindy Young

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.

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02/18/2019 – Robyn White

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.

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09/21/2018 – Nancye Duhon

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.

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02/14/2024 – George Marquis Smith

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 even to help 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.

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10/22/2019 – Anne Taquino

Dr Smith and her staff are wonderful.

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02/21/2023 – Belinda aGeldmacher

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!

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02/17/2020 – Daniel Schnaars

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.

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03/18/2022 – Herbert Schilling

Dr. Karen Smith is a true professional in every manner !

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02/17/2020 – Winnie Duhe

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)

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09/30/2022 – Bridget E Boustany

Dr. Smith is the best physician. She takes her time, listens to my concerns and helps me problem solve.

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12/14/2022 – terry mc fillen

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.

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09/28/2022 – Robyn White

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.

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03/22/2022 – David Strother

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.

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03/19/2022 – Barbara Black

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.

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03/22/2018 – DL Gibson

Patient for 18 plus years. Wellness type pratice. Easy to talk to about about health and wellness.

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08/14/2022 – Linda Blessing

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!

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02/21/2023 – Greg Dugan

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!

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02/25/2025 – Darlene Savoy

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.

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03/28/2024 – Linda Richard

Great Doc. Cares about ME & goes the extra mile to take care of my medical needs !

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02/23/2023 – Anne Babineaux

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.

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02/17/2020 – Gayle Webre

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.

Testimonials from patients of Karen R. Smith, MD

TOY

from Lani in LA • March 24, 2024

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 Read more...

Always available no matter what the circumstance

from Nancy in LA • March 8, 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. Read more...

Exceptional Health Provider

from Karen Kay in LA • February 19, 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 Read more...

Unbelievable Doctor and Staff

from Charles in LA • 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 Read more...

SHE HAS MY BACK

from Barbara in LA • February 17, 2024

It is so comforting to have someone at your beck and call 24/7. I feel so secure having her in my life as I age. She and her assistant Denise are like my dear friends...I always feel comfortable calling any time and knowing that they care whenever my husband and I are there. The staff is great as well. Dr. Karen's office is about 5 minutes from where I live. I will,and do recommend Dr. Read more...

The Office of Karen R. Smith, MD

Locations & Hours

Primary Office

105 Patriot Avenue Suite 202
Lafayette, LA 70508

call 1.866.696.3847

Get Directions

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

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual, and annual payments.

Quarterly

$487.50 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual

$975.00 every 6 months*

Annual

$1,950.00 each year*

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Smith.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly

$487.50 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual

$975.00 every 6 months*

Annual

$1,950.00 each year*

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone Number*

ZIP Code

*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

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Primary Care That Makes You Primary

Karen R. Smith, MD

Get Started Today

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

Education

Residency

Medical School

Postgraduate

Undergraduate

Certifications

Hospital Affiliations

Professional Affiliations & Appointments

Honors and Awards

Professional Society Memberships

Licensure

Interests

What Members Are Saying

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

Meet Karen R. Smith, MD

What Members Are Saying

Get Started Today

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

Primary Care That Makes You Primary

Benefits of joining Dr. Smith's practice with MDVIP

MDVIP Wellness Program

Better Doctor-Patient Relationship

Same/Next-Day Appointments

Reachable 24/7

Smaller Practice Size

Your Dedicated Doctor

Travel Benefits

Medical Centers of Excellence

Better Health Outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s different about MDVIP practices and traditional primary care practices?

How does insurance work in an MDVIP-affiliated practice?

What is MDVIP and what does it do?

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

Get Started Today

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

Reviews from around the web

Testimonials from patients of Karen R. Smith, MD

TOY

Always available no matter what the circumstance

Exceptional Health Provider

Unbelievable Doctor and Staff

SHE HAS MY BACK

The Office of Karen R. Smith, MD

Locations & Hours

Primary Office

Hours

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

Get Started Today

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee