PINEHURST — FirstHealth Fitness Exercise is Medicine Clinic Program Manager Tim Smith recently earned the 2021 Southeast Rising Star Award by the Medical Fitness Association.
Smith has been recognized for his work with the Exercise is Medicine program, creating a streamlined referral process for providers and successfully growing the program throughout all FirstHealth Fitness locations.
“It’s an honor to receive this award and to be recognized for furthering the program’s commitment to making fitness as accessible as possible,” Smith said. “Physical activity is a powerful tool in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. We hope to provide a program that guides and teaches participants to utilize exercise in ways that works well for them.”
The MFA Regional Rising Star Award program recognizes outstanding individual achievement and significant leadership within the medical fitness community. Nominees are evaluated based on rigorous criteria, including:
- Continually exceeding performance expectations
- Implementing procedural recommendations and participating in the delivery process
- Actively pursuing personal, professional and intellectual growth opportunities
- Demonstrating exemplary interest in medical fitness clients and striving for growth within the medical fitness field
Smith began his career at FirstHealth in the 1990s, working in cardiac rehabilitation. Prior to his current role, he worked as a clinical manager and exercise specialist. Smith joined the EIM team as clinical program manager in 2019 and continues to work with clinics, patients and clinical staff.
Smith earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education and a master’s degree in natural health. He is a certified exercise specialist through the American College of Sports Medicine, and recently completed his substance abuse fitness specialist certification. FirstHealth Fitness Director John Caliri said Smith is constantly striving to improve both the EIM program and his own expertise.
“Tim has been a key part of the success of our Exercise is Medicine program, and keeping it top of mind for health care providers,” Caliri said. “We’re proud to have him on the team and celebrate his continued success.”
About Exercise is Medicine
Exercise is Medicine is a physician-referral program hosted by FirstHealth Fitness. In partnership with their doctors, patients meet with an exercise specialist to develop goals and an exercise prescription. The program is designed for people of all fitness levels, including cancer survivors, patients with diabetes and those looking to improve heart health.
Visit www.firsthealth.org/eim to learn more.
