Ruth Smith, M.D.

I believe the greatest privilege of family medicine is the opportunity to care for patients and families over time. I value continuity — getting to know my patients through different seasons of their lives, from pregnancy and childhood through adulthood and later life. I believe the best care begins with listening, understanding what matters to each patient and working together to develop a plan that is evidence-based, practical and aligned with their goals.

I was raised in this area, and I am excited to be returning home to southern Minnesota. My career has taken me from coast to coast through active duty service in the Navy and ultimately to rural family medicine. I continue to serve in the Navy Reserve, and these varied experiences have strengthened my commitment to comprehensive, full-scope care, service, teamwork and community.

I am board-certified in both Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine. As faculty in our Family Medicine Residency Program, I am passionate about preparing the next generation of family physicians to provide broad, compassionate, relationship-centered care. Teaching is an extension of my commitment to patients and community, and it is a privilege to invest in the future of Family Medicine while caring for the community that helped shape me.

Outside of medicine, I am a proud mom of two amazing and active children who keep life busy, fun and full of adventure. My husband is an avid outdoorsman, and over the years, I have successfully converted him into a world traveler. Together, we love exploring new places, cultures and food. Some of our favorite travels have taken us to South Africa, Croatia, Italy, Ireland, Jamaica, Costa Rica and Hawaii.

Closer to home, some of my favorite places are Minnesota’s North Shore and the St. Croix River Valley. I enjoy boating (more than fishing, despite my family’s preference), biking, yoga, cooking and reading. Our household also includes a yellow Lab, a barn cat, and four chickens, so there is rarely a dull moment. Family is incredibly important to me, and I am happily entering my “auntie era” as my siblings grow their families. Through all the family, travel, animals, and adventures, coffee remains the main reason I get up every morning.

Education

• University of Minnesota Medical School

Internship

• Family Medicine, Bremerton Naval Hospital

Residency

• Family Medicine, Bremerton Naval Hospital

Certifications

• American Board of Family Medicine
• American Board of Obesity Medicine

Membership

• American Academy of Family Physicians

• Obesity medicine
• Obstetrics and continuity maternity care
• Pediatrics
• Veterans health