Dr. Rhett Mays brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to patient care to Community Family Practice. Growing up in a large family in the Ozarks, his upbringing instilled in him the importance of community and family values, principles he carries into his practice today. Dr. Mays’ journey in medicine is marked by a pursuit of knowledge and a dedication to serving diverse patient populations.
His academic foundation began at Colorado College, where he earned his undergraduate degree and met his wife, Stephanie. Following graduation, Dr. Mays engaged in significant research, accepting a Virology fellowship at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) focusing on vaccine development. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into public health and preventative medicine, shaping his holistic approach to patient wellness. Driven by a desire to directly impact individual lives, he returned to his home state of Arkansas for medical school and subsequently completed a combined residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Duke University. This rigorous training equipped him with expertise in caring for patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, making him a versatile family doctor.
In 2010, Asheville, North Carolina became home for Dr. Mays and his family, a move strategically coordinated with his twin brother, Rob, highlighting the importance of family support in his life. Prior to joining Community Family Practice, Dr. Mays served at Mission Hospital for nearly a decade, attending on both adult and pediatric wards. His time at Mission Hospital was characterized by a passion for teaching, as he mentored residents and medical students, contributing to the development of future healthcare professionals. Seeking to broaden his experience within a public health system, Dr. Mays and his family relocated to Christchurch, New Zealand, further enriching his understanding of diverse healthcare models. Upon returning stateside, he continued his inpatient practice within the UNC system hospitals, reinforcing his skills in hospital-based care.
Now at Community Family Practice, Dr. Mays is enthusiastic about building lasting relationships with individuals and families within the community. His board certifications in Internal Medicine, General Pediatrics, and Inpatient Pediatrics underscore his comprehensive expertise and dedication to maintaining the highest standards of care. Dr. Mays’ clinical interests are broad and patient-centered, encompassing pediatric infectious diseases, with a focus on minimizing polypharmacy and providing compassionate end-of-life care. Beyond the clinic, he is a strong advocate for community well-being, championing safe environments for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting expanded access to crucial vaccinations, and supporting the establishment of a robust public healthcare system. Outside of his professional life, Dr. Mays enjoys an active lifestyle, embracing biking, hiking, swimming, and sharing these passions with his children. He also appreciates the simple pleasures of good coffee and engaging in outdoor labor. Dr. Mays’ dedication to his patients and his community makes him a valued member of Community Family Practice.
