Dr. David Smart is a distinguished urologist with a wealth of experience and credentials. Originally from Zimbabwe, he earned his MBChB degree from the University of Cape Town in 1986. Following his internship at Edendale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, he worked at Ernest Oppenheimer Hospital, gaining experience in both anesthesia and surgery. It was during this time that he began his clinical research career and developed a keen interest in urology. His early research led to a presentation at the South African Urological Association (SAUA) Congress in 1990, where he won the prize for Best Paper by a junior researcher, ultimately securing a urology specialist training position.

Dr. Smart completed his postgraduate studies at Wits University in 1995, during which time he continued clinical drug trials and the evaluation of new surgical techniques and instrumentation. After qualifying, he entered private practice in Johannesburg at Milpark Hospital and Sandton Clinic before later moving to Morningside Clinic.

In 2002, he and his family relocated to Pietermaritzburg, where he took over a practice in the Natal Midlands. He was based at Pietermaritzburg Mediclinic for many years before moving to Life Hilton Hospital, where he remained for eight years. During this time, he continued his commitment to specialist training, holding a sessional Consultant appointment at Greys Hospital for sixteen years, serving as an examiner for the College of Urologists, and later becoming a Convenor of Examinations for the Urology Fellowship final exams.

Dr. Smart’s leadership roles include serving on the Executive Committee of the SAUA for 14 years and presiding as President of the Association from 2019 to 2022. He has also contributed significantly to healthcare governance, chairing Clinical Advisory Boards at both Life Hilton Hospital and Pietermaritzburg Mediclinic. Additionally, he has served as an advisor to the Council for Medical Schemes and has been a key opinion leader in urology, educating fellow urologists on new medications. He has delivered lectures and presentations both locally and internationally, in Europe, the Middle East and across Africa.

He has served on advisory boards for leading pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer, Astellas, Janssen, Lilly, Cipla, Allergan, and Litha. He was also the editor of Urology Today, a quarterly journal dedicated to the field.

Dr. Smart continues to be a sought-after speaker, frequently giving webinars and educational talks for medical professionals. As he and his wife, Suzie—who is a hospital pharmacist—prepare for their next chapter, they are moving to Plettenberg Bay, where he will take over an existing urology practice. The new practice will be active from late April 2025, allowing him to continue providing expert care while being closer to his extended family, who have lived in the area for over 40 years.