Doctor finds reward helping patients who can’t pay

Nov. 26--HIGH POINT -- Dr. Lyle Smith has helped thousands of people in his decades-long medical career, and some of the most rewarding experiences he's encountered are with patients who can't pay him.

For the past 23 years, Smith has volunteered as a doctor at the Community Clinic of High Point treating indigent patients who have no health insurance coverage. The native of Thomasville said he's been heartened to treat men and women with a range of ailments and illnesses who otherwise would suffer without care because of an inability to pay.

"It keeps me busy," Smith told The High Point Enterprise.

The clinic has provided Smith with the opportunity to keep using his medical skills to benefit the community.

Smith started his service at the clinic in 1995 when he became one of the founding physician partners for the local medical group Cornerstone Health Care. The doctor started, while in private practice, volunteering on Thursday nights to treat patients who couldn't make it into the clinic during traditional, daytime working hours.

When he retired from full-time medical practice four years ago, Smith stepped up his time at the clinic. He volunteers two mornings a week, seeing 10-11 patients on average.

Many of the patients Smith serves suffer with chronic care issues.

"The patients here are very appreciative," he said.

Smith earned his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston after receiving his undergraduate degree from Davidson College. He served as a physician in the U.S. Army in addition to his private practice.

Smith has volunteered with the Community Clinic of High Point almost since its inception. The clinic was formed in 1992 and welcomed its first patient on April 1, 1993.

"Since that time, the Community Clinic has provided over 100,000 patient visits to almost 20,000 members of our community," according to the nonprofit's website.

The clinic offers medical care, pharmacy services, lab services and patient education.

"This legacy of care is possible because of the dedication and commitment of staff and volunteers, and the support of a generous community," clinic organizers say.

Smith symbolizes the healthcare professionals who allow the clinic to serve patients in both medical and financial need, said Molly Jordan, executive director of the clinic.

"Dr. Smith is an amazing friend and volunteer to the Community Clinic of High Point. His commitment to patients, ensuring that they receive the best care possible, is a wonderful gift to us all," Jordan said. "He supports the clinic team in every way possible and is a true blessing to our clinic and our community."

pjohnson@hpenews.com -- 336-888-3528 -- @HPEpaul

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