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Consultant ENT & Header and Neck Surgeon

About Joel Smith

Dr Joel Smith is an internationally trained Consultant ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat), Head and Neck, and Thyroid Surgeon. With extensive experience in both complex surgery and holistic patient care, Joel is dedicated to providing tailored treatment using the latest medical advancements and evidence-based practices.

He currently leads service development and governance in ENT at the Royal Devon University Healthcare (RDUH), where he also chairs the Thyroid and Endocrine Cancer MDT and is a core member of the head and neck MDT. He established the head and neck robotic surgery program in 2023. In addition to his clinical work, Joel is senior lecturer at University of Exeter and supervises a full-time research fellow in genomic medicine. He is involved in teaching and training of medical students and trainee doctors.

Joel's Work

  • Joel is currently Departmental Lead in Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery at Royal Devon University Healthcare (RDUH) with responsibilities for service development and improvement. 
  • Joel is Audit and Governance lead in ENT at RDUH with responsibilities for service assessment, maintaining best practice and adoption of new technologies and new practice guidelines. 
  • Joel is Lead and Chair of the Thyroid and Endocrine cancer MDT at RDUH
  • Joel is Honorary Senior Lecturer University of Exeter and is actively involved in research.
  • Joel is Head and Neck Research Lead supervising doctors performing research and in training and medical students.

Qualifications

Qualifications
Studied at
Date
MD (molecular genetics)
University of Birmingham
Oct 2011 – Oct 2013 · Awarded 2015
Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons FRCS (ORL-HNS)
The Royal College of Surgeons of England
Nov 2012
Certificate in Medical Education (with Merit)
University of Warwick
2007–2011 · Awarded 2016
Diploma of head and neck surgery
The Royal College of Surgeons of England
May 2007
BMedSc (Hons)
University of Birmingham
June 2000 · Behavioural science (2:1)

Your local practice

Based in Exeter

Dr Smith is based in Exeter, working from two trusted locations:

Based at Royal Devon University Hospital & Nuffield Health

This local presence means patients benefit from expert-led care close to home, with access to cutting-edge diagnostic tools, surgical facilities, and a collaborative multidisciplinary team. Whether you are seeking advice, diagnosis, or treatment, Dr Smith ensures a smooth and supportive experience throughout your care journey.

Affiliations

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