Austin Tyler Smarsh, DO

Where are you from?    
Westland, MI
Why did you choose UA Family Medicine?   
I chose UA Family Medicine for so many reasons, but some of the reasons were the program’s focus on health equity, health education, community advocacy, Integrative Medicine, and the chance to work alongside so many healthcare providers & staff in the local area. As a native Michigander, I also have to say the sun in the winter months will most definitely be appreciated.
What are you most excited about for life in Tucson?   
I am very excited to live in a place with so much history, culture, and community to learn all about. I’m also really looking forward to exploring an entirely new place, making new friends, and becoming a member of the community with my wife and our pup, Mason. We love exploring the desert and mountains surrounding Tucson and we are, of course, looking forward to trying any and all restaurants (recommendations always welcome).
What are your interests or hobbies outside of Medicine?
I genuinely appreciate spending time with friends and family, regardless of what we’re doing. My wife and I do our best to go hiking, go to concerts, and explore the local parks, shops, and restaurants when we can. I’m a big fan of all types of movies and music, and I love the show, Jeopardy! so if I’m free and it’s on, you’ll know where to find me. Since coming to Tucson, I’ve also started trying bachata and some yoga!
What are your professional interests within Medicine?
Doctor-Patient Relationship, Social Determinants of Health, Health Equity, Community Health, Health Education & Communication, Public Health, Food as Medicine, Integrative medicine, Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM)
Favorite way to spend a day off?
My perfect day off would be getting up early to drive out to and explore a new trail or nature area with my wife for most of the day (hopefully with a reasonable temperature outside…) followed by a slice (or two) of pizza and coming back home to rest and hang out with our pup.
Top item on your "Bucket list"?
I struggle to just pick one, so I would either love to visit Italy (especially Rome) with enough time to explore and tour everything or I would love to go on an extended, adventure-type vacation in South America, hiking through the Andes Mountains and seeing Patagonia.