Emily Milz Orfinger, MD

Emily Orfinger_headshot
What are your career goals?

My goal is to provide compassionate, full spectrum primary care to patients of all ages and backgrounds. I am passionate about serving rural communities after growing up in one, and I have special interests in women's health and mental health.

What attracted you to the Duke Family Medicine Residency Program?

I was sure I wanted to train with Duke Family Medicine's Rural Track the day I interviewed! Each conversation I had with faculty and residents was genuine and comfortable, and I knew it would be a privilege to learn from such kind and intelligent people.

In your opinion, what makes Duke Family Medicine special?

Duke Family Medicine's Rural Track provides the unique opportunity to train during intern year at a large academic institution followed by two years immersed in a rural community hospital. I am especially excited to get to know and care for Duke Primary Care Oxford patients in the outpatient setting during all 3 years of training.

What strengths or skills do you have that could be a benefit to the community?

Getting involved in shaping local governmental policy is one of my goals as a resident. I would love to use my communication skills and unique perspective as a physician in training to advocate for changes that could positively impact the whole community.

What are you passionate about?

I am extremely passionate about fostering open and honest communication with my patients in order to determine and meet their needs. My goal is to help patients always feel safe and comfortable discussing any health topic with me.

What is your hometown?

Florence, South Carolina

What are your hobbies outside of work?

Spending time with my husband and two dogs, staying up-to-date on news and politics, reading, and trying out new crockpot recipes.

If you have lived in the area for awhile, what is the best part of living in Durham/the Triangle?

I just moved to Stem, NC, in June 2023! I am looking forward to being immersed in the Triangle community. So far, my favorite part of the area has been being surrounded by people from extremely diverse backgrounds and experiences.

What is something interesting that not many people know about you?

I recharge during my commutes to and from Duke by listening to news podcasts. Reminding myself about what's happening in the world outside of the hospital keeps me grounded.

So far, what has surprised you most about Duke?

The beauty of Duke's architecture and gardens is incredible! I will definitely be exploring campus in my free time.


Education and Training

  • University of South Carolina School of Medicine, MD
  • University of South Carolina Honors College, Baccalaureus Artium et Scientiae (BS/BA)