Physician Highlight:
Robert Santee, M.D.

Robert Santee realized that he wanted to pursue helping others early in life. In middle school, he discovered a love of science which ultimately led to his pursuit of a medical degree from Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, TX. Following a four-year residency in St. Louis, MO, Dr. Santee completed his Body Imaging fellowship at LSU.

Dr. Santee moved to Sevier county to be closer to family, in 2003, when he joined Vista Radiology group. At LeConte Medical Center, in Sevierville, TN, he holds several key positions including Chief of Staff, Medical Director of Imaging and Radiology Safety Officer. Dr. Santee oversees a wide variety of specialized radiology services offered at LeConte from women’s imaging to biopsies to interventional procedures. “I enjoy the variety of my work,” said Dr. Santee. He went on to explain, “I especially appreciate the direct interaction I have with my patients. The most challenging aspect is when I have to deliver difficult news.”

When describing his experience working with the 3rd largest radiology group in Tennessee, he explained why he chose to partner with Vista Radiology. “I value collaboration within our team. Our interventional radiologists provide training for new procedures so that I can offer more specialized services at my location which makes treatment options more convenient for our patients.” Dr. Santee shared how important community is to him in his role. “When I began working with Vista, I made a commitment to not only work but live in Sevier County. I wanted to be part of the community,” said Dr. Santee.

In his spare time, Dr. Santee enjoys spending time with friends. He loves being outdoors and hiking in the nearby Smoky Mountains. One of his favorite destinations is Biltmore Estates and Gardens in Asheville, NC. When he’s not on land, he can be found underwater scuba diving with his high school friends in Belize, Aruba, or the Cayman Islands.

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