Meet Our Doctors – Dr. James M. Sizemore

Cempa Community Care

Managing & Preventing Diseases

As Chief Medical Officer at Cempa Community Care, Dr. Jay Sizemore is pursuing his lifelong passion of infection management and prevention. Since 2014, he’s made it a priority to treat patients co-infected with hepatitis C and HIV, and due to his efforts, 96% of HIV-positive patients who receive medical care at Cempa have been cured of hepatitis C. According to Dr. Sizemore, who’s been practicing for over 21 years, “I’ve had many incredible professional moments throughout my career, from treating a new mother with a life-threatening heart infection to restoring the immune system of a patient with advanced HIV. The ‘thank you’ I receive from my patients makes it all worth it.” When not at the office, Dr. Sizemore can be found presenting critical information on infectious diseases – including the advantages of vaccines, a subject he’s particularly passionate about – around Chattanooga.

I have the unique opportunity to not only help patients, but also educate fellow providers and students."

My Credentials

Medical Degree:

University of Tennessee College of Medicine

Certifications:

American Board of Internal Medicine – Internal Medicine, Infectious Disease

Recognitions:

Medical Director of the Antimicrobial Stewardship and Infection Prevention Programs, Erlanger Health System

My Specialties

Internal Medicine

Infectious Diseases

1. What sets your practice apart?

Aside from our drive for excellence, at Cempa, we hold a 91% viral suppression rate for HIV patients (the national viral suppression rate is 60%). I’d also mention our prevention through education efforts, our in-depth screenings available, and our position as vaccine champions.

2. What do you see as the most exciting new development for your profession?

Two things: new drugs becoming available to control HIV that offer a non-limited lifespan, and new drugs becoming available that cure hepatitis C.

3. What accolades mean the most to you?

My appointment to the Hamilton County Regional Health Council in 2016, and then serving as Chief of Medical Staff for Erlanger Health System from 2017 to 2018.

4. What is your best advice for patients?

Avoid antibiotics for viruses, obtain age- and risk-appropriate screenings, and get vaccinated.

5. How does your staff enhance your practice?

Our team at Cempa is able to offer comprehensive services from case management, to adherence, to nutrition, to mental health counseling, all under one roof.

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