About
Leah Gilliam, MD, grew up in Lexington, Tennessee, attended Lexington High School, and returned home to build her medical practice on the same streets where she was raised. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, then went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She completed her family medicine residency at the University of Tennessee, Jackson.
Dr. Gilliam has known family medicine was her calling since childhood. Growing up, she spent time around the young, enthusiastic physicians her mother worked with, and that early exposure shaped her path. She is passionate about treating the whole person, whether that means managing a chronic condition, guiding a patient through cancer screening, or supporting someone through a difficult treatment like chemotherapy. Outside the office, she lives on the family farm with her husband Justin, her high school sweetheart. Patients consistently describe her as kind, compassionate, and genuinely present during every visit.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, B.S. Biological Sciences
Medical School
University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Residency
Family Medicine, University of Tennessee, Jackson
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Gilliam right for?
Dr. Gilliam works well with patients of all ages looking for a personal, unhurried relationship with their doctor. She is a strong fit for anyone managing diabetes, high cholesterol, or obesity who wants a structured, ongoing care plan. Patients seeking preventive screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, or endometrial cancer will find her approach thorough and proactive. She also treats skin conditions including dermatitis, psoriasis, and suspicious lesions requiring biopsy. Families who want one trusted physician to handle a wide range of needs will feel at home here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Gilliam treats a broad range of conditions including diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and skin conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, and skin infections. She also screens for and evaluates skin cancer and performs skin biopsies in the office. Her family medicine training means she handles acute illnesses, chronic disease management, and preventive care for patients of all ages.
Dr. Gilliam completed her family medicine residency at the University of Tennessee, Jackson, and practices full-scope family medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and her undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Yes. Dr. Gilliam offers a comprehensive weight loss program that includes nutritional planning, fitness education, and medication when appropriate. She uses appetite suppressants to help some patients manage hunger and metabolism. The program includes weekly weigh-ins and both short and long-term goal setting to help patients build sustainable habits.
Dr. Gilliam performs screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and endometrial cancers. Breast exams and mammogram referrals, Pap smears, HPV testing, and colorectal screenings are all part of her preventive care services. She tailors screening schedules to each patient's age and health history.
Dr. Gilliam helps patients manage blood sugar levels through diagnostic testing and individualized treatment plans. She works with patients to understand and address symptoms like chronic fatigue, frequent urination, and nerve-related concerns. Diabetes screening is included in the monthly membership at no extra charge.
Yes. Dr. Gilliam performs skin biopsies directly in her office. She uses shave, punch, and incisional biopsy methods depending on the clinical need. These procedures help diagnose conditions including skin cancer, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin abnormalities.
Dr. Gilliam schedules every visit to last at least 30 minutes. That time gives her room to listen, explain a diagnosis thoroughly, and discuss treatment options without rushing. Patients frequently note that she takes time to answer every question and explains conditions clearly.
Dr. Gilliam grew up in Lexington, Tennessee, where she now practices. She attended Lexington High School before earning her undergraduate degree at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She then trained at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and completed her residency at the University of Tennessee, Jackson.
Doctor profile last updated April 10, 2026
