Meet Dr. Alberto Santos, D.O. — Medical Director, Collaborative Physician, and Advocate for Whole-Person Wellness
Dr. Alberto Santos brings more than two decades of medical leadership, clinical excellence, and whole-person care to his role as Medical Director of Smart Choice Medical Clinic. A board-certified family physician with a distinguished background in primary care, hospice, osteopathic medicine, and healthcare innovation, Dr. Santos is recognized across Texas for his depth of experience and compassionate approach.
He is board-certified in both Family Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment, offering hands-on care that complements medical therapies for pain, mobility, and healing. His wide-ranging career spans hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and national medical leadership roles, including his current position overseeing gene therapy and transplant programs as a Senior Medical Director with Aetna/CVS Health. His unique combination of clinical, administrative, and academic expertise allows him to lead with clarity, empathy, and innovation.
At Smart Choice Medical Clinic, Dr. Santos works closely with patients of all ages, combining personalized family medicine with advanced therapies such as hormone optimization, medical weight loss, IV nutrient therapy, and chronic disease management. His approach centers on building trust and creating sustainable health strategies that work in the real world.
Dr. Santos is also a practicing hospice physician and designated U.S. Civil Surgeon for immigration medical exams, demonstrating his commitment to serving patients through every stage of life and across diverse needs. Known for his humility, intelligence, and long-standing dedication to patient care, he exemplifies the clinic’s mission of accessible, respectful, and transformational medicine.
“Smart Choice Medical Clinic is a refreshing change from today’s typical medical provider experience. Prompt, professional, person medical needs are delivered by the friendly, conscientious staff. I would recommend anyone looking for a primary care provider in Tyler to consider them!”
“Guerda Johnson and the staff there are so wonderful. They listen to what your concerns are and then reply. GREAT people skills, very understanding to your needs and very affordable.”
“Wow! I’m so glad I found this place, extremely professional and efficient. I was able to make an appointment the same day for a first time visit, the appointment went smooth and the staff and doctors are extremely professional! I would 100% recommend, also this is the most affordable option for individuals without insurance that I found in Tyler, Texas. I highly, highly recommend!”
Education & Training
University of North Texas Health Science Center
D.O., Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Southwest Texas State University
M.S., Master of Science in Biology
Family Practice and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
Internship and Residency, Corpus Christi, Texas
Certifications
American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians (AOBFP)
Board-Certified, Family Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
USCIS-Designated Civil Surgeon
Certified Medical Examiner
Dr. Alberto Santos’ Areas of Expertise
Family Medicine & Preventive Care
Dr. Santos offers comprehensive primary care across all ages, with a focus on prevention, lifestyle optimization, and long-term wellness partnerships.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
He integrates hands-on techniques to treat musculoskeletal pain, improve circulation, and support natural healing alongside traditional medicine.
Hormone Optimization & BHRT
Dr. Santos provides personalized hormone therapies using bioidentical options, including pellet implants, to support energy, metabolism, and balance.
Medical Weight Loss & Nutrition
With an evidence-based, practical approach, he helps patients lose weight safely and sustainably through medical, nutritional, and metabolic guidance.
IV Hydration & Recovery Support
Dr. Santos supervises IV therapies to rehydrate, replenish, and restore, whether for fatigue, immunity, or post-illness recovery.
Dr. Alberto Santos’ Treatment Philosophy
Dr. Santos believes healthcare should serve the whole person; not just manage illness. His philosophy blends the rigor of clinical science with the art of human connection, always prioritizing clarity, compassion, and continuity. At Smart Choice Medical Clinic, he champions accessible care, empowering patients through education and treatment plans that respect their values and real-life challenges.