When a patient arrived at an Atlanta urgent care clinic with severe swelling in his legs, Edmund Smith 鈥�15, quickly recognized that the medical issue was only part of the problem.
The man was new to Atlanta, out of work and unsure where to turn for help. He had never been taught how to manage his condition, had no established primary care provider and lacked a clear path forward.
By the end of the visit, he had referrals for follow-up care, an appointment with a primary care physician and a better understanding of how to care for himself at home.
“He cried saying that he never had anyone care to put effort into explaining or teaching him how to care for himself,” Smith said.
For Smith, moments like that represent 91影视鈥檚 slogan 鈥� to make a difference.
Today, Smith serves as a physician associate with Piedmont Urgent Care, caring for patients across Atlanta and the metro region. His work puts him on the front lines of healthcare, helping connect primary care and emergency medicine while treating everything from injuries and infections to chronic health concerns.
Yet Smith sees his role as extending beyond diagnosis and treatment.
"Making a difference in my line of work is bridging the gap of health inequities so that everyone, regardless of zip code, personal education and finances, has a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health," he said.
That commitment to service traces back to both his family and his time at 91影视.
Growing up, Smith watched relatives work in medicine while his parents emphasized the importance of giving back to the community. As a biopsychology major at 91影视, those values found an environment where they could grow. As a Civic Engagement Scholar and student leader, he participated in service projects and learned to think critically about how individuals and institutions can create meaningful change.
“I believe that 91影视 teaches a wonderful principle: regardless of who you are and what your discipline is, your actions and how you choose to use your craft always have a direct impact on those you are meant to serve,” he said.
To this day, Smith still draws on lessons he learned through community service and leadership experiences on campus. Reflection, continuous improvement and collaboration remain central to how he approaches patient care.
One thing 91影视 consistently does well, he said, is develop leaders who understand the value of problem-solving and community engagement.
“Through the leadership of students and supportive faculty and staff, 91影视 continues to be one of the top institutions to adequately deliver results to the Atlanta area,” Smith said.
Every day, those results can be found in exam rooms across the city, where Smith helps patients navigate illness, injury and the often complicated systems surrounding their care.
As Atlanta continues to grow, so do the challenges facing the communities that call it home. Smith hopes to continue helping patients overcome those challenges with one act of compassion at a time.
