Dr. O’Kelley
I joined Generations after completing my residency training in 1989 at the University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences in Memphis. I have seen many changes in health care over the years. One thing which has remained constant is the importance of providing the best quality of care possible. Maintaining that focus has served my practice and my patients well. Also, I have been practicing medicine long enough to appreciate the value of compassionate care and I strive for that daily. I have had the privilege to work with many outstanding healthcare providers over the years and I am humbled by the opportunity I have had to help so many people with their health care needs.
Like many other physicians I enjoy surgery. Of course, it is equally important to know when not to operate, and I try to make sure my patients are completely aware of all treatment options available. Much of what we were trained to do surgically years ago has changed and we have had to develop new skills in order to advance the quality of care we can provide for patients. Surgery has become less “invasive”, which has benefited our patients with reduced postsurgical pain and shortened recovery time. Most of my patients who require hysterectomy now either undergo a vaginal hysterectomy or a laparoscopic hysterectomy, both of which avoid a large abdominal incision and a lengthier recovery.
A specific area of clinical interest for me has been to help patients with menopause related issues. My efforts in that area have led to recognition as a certified menopause practitioner by the North American Menopause Society.
My wife and I moved to Knoxville from Memphis in 1989 and have raised 2 children here. We love our church, our friends, our community, and just about everything about Knoxville and East Tennessee. We cannot imagine living anywhere else. It is a great honor and privilege to serve the patients of Generations.
Career and Achievements
Education
- Specialty Training: University of Tennessee, 1989
- Medical: University of Tennessee, M.D. 1985
- Undergraduate: University of Memphis, B.S. 1981
Board certificate
- American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology 12/13/1991
Society Membership
- Fellow, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- North American Menopause Society
Hospital Affiliations
- Active
- Parkwest Medical Center
- Courtesy
- Fort Loudon Medical Center
Career Achievements
- Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center 1995-1996
- Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Parkwest Medical Center 2003– 2005, 2022- 2024
- Medical Director, Maternity Center of East Tennessee, 1999 – 2000
- Surgical Preceptor for Essure, Conceptus, 2004
- Chair, Covenant Women’s Health Council, 2005
Community Service
- Medical Advisory Board, Hope Resource Center, 2005 to present