AdventHealth Daytona Beach names new chief medical officer

As AdventHealth Daytona Beach embarks on one of the largest expansion projects in its history, it’s welcoming a new physician leader to help guide its next chapter.

Dr. Carolyn Harraway-Smith stepped into the role of Chief Medical Officer on Aug. 25, bringing more than 20 years of experience as both a practicing physician and health care executive.

Board-certified in both obstetrics/gynecology and family medicine, Harraway-Smith most recently served as the System Chief Quality Officer for Cone Health in North Carolina. She’s also held roles as a department chair, fellowship director, and hospital chief medical officer, building a leadership approach that’s practical, people-focused, and guided by data.

“Dr. Harraway-Smith has been a practicing physician for many years, and she’s also led systemwide quality initiatives,” said Dr. David Sinclair, president and CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach. “She understands that better care isn’t just about protocols or equipment — it’s about people. And she knows how to bring teams together to make meaningful change.”

Harraway-Smith joins the hospital at a pivotal moment. Construction crews are hard at work on a $220 million expansion that will add 104 new inpatient beds, four surgical suites, and more than 240,000 square feet of space to meet the needs of a growing community and support faster access to high-quality care.

“I was drawn to AdventHealth because of its whole-person care philosophy. It’s how people show up here, every day,” said Dr. Harraway-Smith. “I’m looking forward to being part of a team that’s serious about safety, equity, and helping patients feel not only better, but truly cared for.”

Harraway-Smith’s appointment strengthens an already acclaimed institution. AdventHealth Daytona Beach, a 363-bed hospital with over 2,000 medical staff members, has consistently received national recognition.

For five consecutive years, the hospital has been ranked as the No. 1 hospital in Volusia County by U.S. News & World Report and, this year, earned “High Performing” recognition in 14 key areas of care, including stroke, heart attack, lung cancer surgery, and spinal fusion.

Harraway-Smith’s arrival reinforces the hospital’s focus on care that’s both advanced and accessible — with an emphasis on teamwork, transparency, and outcomes that matter.

“She’s the kind of leader who listens more than she talks, and who brings clarity when things get complicated,” said Sinclair. “That’s exactly what this moment calls for.”