Article in Spanish / Versión en español >> Doctora del Mes: Victoria Smith
Doctor of the Month – March: Victoria Smith, MD.
Primary Care – Family Medicine
Associate Medical Director for Primary Care for the River Region at Ochsner Health
Country of origin: United States
Education:
Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, Yale University.
Harvard Medical School
Family Medicine Residency at LSU Health Sciences Center-New Orleans / Kenner Regional Medical Center.
Years practicing: 24
Clinic: Ochsner Health Center- Driftwood
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS: 2018 City Business Woman of the Year
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What inspired you to study medicine?
Improving people’s lives on an individual’s basis. I wanted to be a diplomat, but I realized being a doctor would also allow me to take care of people.
What are you most passionate about in your profession?
Language is very important in the relationship between a doctor and a patient. When I’m sick, I prefer to speak in my native language, so I’m very happy I can care for people in their language.
Why did you choose Family Medicine?
In family medicine we are trained to take care of men, women and children. We get to improve people’s health not only by treating some issues, but helping with prevention. I also like different things, so with family medicine, I get to treat multiple conditions by partnering up with other doctors.
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Is there any condition that predominates in the patients you see?
Unfortunately, I see many recurring conditions, especially in my Hispanic patients such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.
What do you recommend to people to take care of their health?
At least 120 minutes of physical activity per week along with a more plant-based diet high in fruits and vegetables. I tell patients to stay away from high processed foods and simple carbohydrates like rice, corn, potatoes, tortillas.
What advice do you give to young immigrants or minority groups in the US who dream of studying health careers?
Seek mentorship. Take advantage of opportunities to shadow, participate in internships and summer programs to get exposed to the field and to meet people who can be your cheerleaders when things can get tough.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I’m a proud mother of two sons. I’m an active leader in the SGI-USA, a lay Buddhist organization. I’m passionate about helping people awaken to the majesty of their lives.
What do you like about living in Louisiana?
People here are so passionate! We have excellent food (not always good for your health), music and dance scenes. We live in one of the best places ever!
