About

Chet Gentry, MD

Dr. Chet Gentry is a highly qualified physician with dual board certifications in family medicine and hospice and palliative care. His medical journey began with his interest in first aid during his time in scouting and working as an EMT in Detroit, Michigan. He pursued undergraduate degrees in biology and human development, specializing in gerontology. He then attended Michigan State University for medical school and completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Virginia, where he gained additional training in obstetrics and neonatal intensive care.

Dr. Chet Gentry is a highly qualified physician with dual board certifications in family medicine and hospice and palliative care. His medical journey began with his interest in first aid during his time in scouting and working as an EMT in Detroit, Michigan. He pursued undergraduate degrees in biology and human development, specializing in gerontology. He then attended Michigan State University for medical school and completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Virginia, where he gained additional training in obstetrics and neonatal intensive care.

Dr. Gentry started his medical career as a rural independent physician, providing comprehensive care, including obstetrics, nursing home care, and utilizing electronic medical records. He was one of the pioneers in using physician assistants and nurse practitioners in primary care. He established the Wellness Center in 1997, offering specialized programs for diabetes education and addiction treatment, and group-based programs for tobacco addiction, obesity, and chronic diseases.

Throughout his career, Dr. Gentry embraced innovative concepts such as shared medical appointments, disease registries, population-based care, and community integration. He received national recognition for his work with diabetic groups and has always emphasized a team-based approach to patient care. Over time, he expanded his practice and acquired additional medical directorships for home health agencies, EMS systems, and hospice agencies. Currently, he serves as the medical director of Hospice of Tennessee and is involved in various medical committees.

Dr. Gentry’s leadership roles include serving as a student delegate to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and holding positions on the Virginia Academy of Family Physicians boards and the Tennessee Academy of Family Physicians. He strongly advocates for rural health and has been recognized for contributing to this field. He actively participated in primary care research networks and founded the Accountable Care Organization Cumberland Center for Healthcare Innovation to improve primary care delivery and outcomes in rural areas.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Gentry values spending time with his family and being involved in his community. He is actively engaged in Collegeside Church of Christ and passionate about outdoor activities, music, and scouting. He attributes his success to his faith in God, his guiding principles, and the support of his family, friends, colleagues, and patients, who have taught him valuable lessons beyond formal education.