Joseph A Smith, MD - Novant Health Surgical Associates-Bolivia

Frank Hobart, MD, based in Wilmington, NC, offers expert care in Cardiovascular Disease and Nuclear Cardiology. Dr. Hobart is a highly experienced provider with a background in top medical institutions, including East Carolina University, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Yale-New Haven Hospital, and Emory University. Board-certified in Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiovascular Disease, he brings undefined+ years of invaluable expertise to his practice. Patients consistently praise Dr. Hobart's attentive bedside manner and comprehensive approach to healthcare. He is known for his empathetic and thorough care, taking the time to listen to concerns and provide detailed explanations. Reviews highlight his dedication to personalized treatment plans and his ability to make patients feel comfortable and well-cared for. With multiple Novant Health locations throughout North Carolina, including Wilmington, Whiteville, Jacksonville, Bolivia, and Scotts Hill, Dr. Hobart and his team at the Heart & Vascular Institute ensure convenient accessibility for patients seeking top-notch cardiovascular care. Generated from the website content

Growing up in Massachusetts, medicine was a family affair. My mother was a nurse for more than 30 years, and I admired her dedication to her profession and her patients. One of my three older brothers also went into cardiology, so I was privileged to watch both of these people make their way in the medical field before me and guide me through my own training and career choices. \n Cardiology combines my loves of medicine, physiology and performing procedures. Collaborating with other physicians in the field is one of my favorite parts of the job, as my patients and theirs benefit from the sharing of information. As a general invasive cardiologist, I manage almost all aspects of cardiac care. From performing and interpreting noninvasive imaging to performing diagnostic procedures to placing cardiac devices, I enjoy the variety of cardiac care, as it challenges me each day. \n I worked my way through medical school by serving in the U.S. Army. I was honored to care for service members as a cardiologist in El Paso, Texas, before going into private practice. My wife, Marilu, and I are happy to have now made North Carolina our home. Our son has moved away, but we are excited every time he gets home for a visit. When I'm not busy with family activities, I enjoy golfing, boating, fishing and all the other outdoor activities our area has to offer.

If you asked me what one of my biggest strengths was, I would say problem solving. Where others might see problems, I always try to see solutions. As a surgeon, I work with my patients to find those solutions; when we work together, we see real-life improvements in patient outcomes. \n I think it is so important that patients understand their condition as well as their treatment options so they can be involved in all aspects of making their own medical decisions. I advocate for my patients so their wishes are respected and so they get the best care available. \n My family and my dogs keep me busy outside of work. Together, we love going to the beach. I also enjoy playing soccer and volleyball, and cooking great meals.