Stephen Hayes, MD

“I enjoy forming lasting relationships with my patients and helping them achieve their best health.”

Background

My interest in medicine started at a young age, inspired by my mother’s work in healthcare. The physicians she worked with were generous with their time, allowing me to observe and explore their clinic. In high school, I had the opportunity to shadow several doctors, which further solidified my decision to pursue medicine.

I chose family medicine because I value forming meaningful, long-term relationships with my patients. Getting to know them and understanding their lives allows me to provide more personalized care. I believe that good healthcare goes beyond treating illnesses—it’s about helping patients make informed decisions that improve their overall well-being.

Education

• Undergraduate: BA, Biology from Campbell University (2010-2014)

• Medical School: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2014-2018)

• Residency: East Carolina University (2018-2021)

Life and Hobbies

I live in Spruce Pine, NC, with my wife and our two dogs. We love exploring the beautiful mountains in our region, especially through hiking. Every year, I challenge myself to learn a new outdoor activity—last year, it was mountain biking, and this year, my wife and I learned to ski. I’m also an avid hunter and fisherman. My passion for the outdoors carries over into my practice, where I encourage my patients to stay active and enjoy nature.