Durant Barrett Abernethy, MD

Dr. Durant Abernethy practices Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at High Country Healthcare Frisco. Dr. Abernethy has dual academic and hospital-based training in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Internists are best recognized as “specialists for adults” and pediatricians as “specialists for children.” His dual-training in these two disciplines enables him to provide a full complement of services from general primary care to prevention, diagnosis, and compassionate care for the entire spectrum of disease from temporary illness (flu, rashes, aches and pains) to complex chronic conditions (asthma, diabetes, arthritis and more) throughout a patient’s lifespan. This is especially useful for chronic diseases that start in childhood, but persist through one’s adult life. Dr. Abernethy believes that, “Among the many advantages of being both an internist and pediatrician is that young patients can remain in my care even after they turn 18. I love to develop long-term relationships and this mix of disciplines allows me to facilitate them.” Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the end of his college studies, Dr. Abernethy’s personal and professional experience has led him to develop additional expertise in caring for people with any form of diabetes and is available for local residents to receive close-to-home care and for guests who may encounter challenges while visiting the region. “Overall, my care philosophy is one of self-empowerment,” Dr. Abernethy says. “Patients can become very effective self-health managers, empowered to make good decisions for their own benefit and for their family.” Dr. Abernethy completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at the University of South Alabama Medical System, having earned his Medical Doctorate from the University of Kansas Medical School. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Summa Cum Laude.