the same institution in 2012. Desiring to enact further positive change in the world of health care, Dr. Smay recently earned a Master of Business Administration in health sector management from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University in 2023. Dr. Smay completed the Black Corporate Board Readiness (BCBR) program at the Santa Clara University Leavey School of Business in 2024 and is board-certified in both anesthesiology and pediatric anesthesiology. Furthermore, she has served on the board of advisors of and invested in the Diabetes Reversal Group since January 2025 and, since 2021, has been on the board of advisors of Transdermal Solutions LLC. Enthusiastic about the future, Dr. Smay aims to enter an operating leadership or C-suite role in the health care industry. Ultimately, she intends to inspire global change by providing quality health care services to underserved populations worldwide. How have you navigated disruptions in your industry to remain a top professional? The main way I’ve been able to navigate anything is through flexibility. I’m willing to make changes to adjust in a flexible way. What are two key behaviors/personality traits that allow you to be effective in your role? I'm a great observer and listener – I think that's my most important behavioral trait that keeps me relevant, engaged and open to new opportunities. Just being able to listen, observe and have situational awareness about what's going on with the business climate. I’m able to insert myself in ways that are relevant and needed, so I can be seen as someone who adds value and not someone who is an opportunist. I’m always trying to add value. What is the most important issue/challenge you are dealing with in your industry? Shortages in staff, decreases in reimbursement for medical services, and devaluation of our profession by using health care extenders who are used as oneto-one replacements for physicians. Their education, experience and breadth of knowledge are less than what we offer. However, because there's so much of a shortage, there's just no other choice. I think it decreases our value. How do you feel your industry has changed/evolved? A great thing that has happened is that quality control has increased because of technology. We can do things more easily and faster with fewer resources. However, we also have more people to take care of. Our population is growing and aging. What innovations or technologies do you feel will shape the future of your industry? Artificial intelligence (AI) or the emergence of generative AI will probably displace 60% to 70% of what humans do in medicine, including physicians. Some people will be completely displaced. AI is going to change everything. It's going to help with physician and staffing shortages. But we really need to avoid pushing it through too fast without ethical controls. What excites you the most about your industry? I think AI excites me the most. It's another avenue to learn about. Even though it's scary, it's a huge opportunity for learning and engagement. Seventh Edition Marquis Who’s Who INSIGHT 15 INSIGHT MARQUIS WHO′S WHO SEVENTH EDITION SUMMER 2025
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