Dr. Kirk Bass

As a compassionate physician with an extensive background in patient care, James Kirk Bass, MD, provides personalized care in a welcoming environment. Dr. Bass serves as the medical director of Shea Aesthetic Clinic in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

After earning his Bachelor of Science with honors from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, Dr. Bass went on to attend medical school at the same institution. He completed his Doctor of Medicine, also with honors, at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine.

Dr. Bass then finished his pediatrics residency program at the East Virginia Medical School in Norfolk. To further his expertise, Dr. Bass completed fellowship training in neonatal-perinatal medicine at the University of Utah School of Medicine in Salt Lake City.

Dr. Bass believes that “it’s what you give that makes you beautiful,” which is a quote by Cherie Anderson. His role model and hero, his younger sister Melanie, passed away from breast cancer at age 39. She was compassionate and kind. She found joy in every moment. To know her was to love her. Melanie was the epitome of beauty because she sincerely strived to make everyone feel loved. Her warmth and kindness inspire Dr. Bass to serve others with compassion every day. A phrase from John Keats fittingly frames his remembrance of Melanie, “a thing of beauty is a joy forever.”

Early on in his career, Dr. Bass served as a medical missionary in Brazil, Uganda, Namibia, and Malaysia. He spent time teaching caregivers how to resuscitate babies who can’t breathe at birth. Dr. Bass loves children and truly enjoys caring for others.

Ultimately, Dr. Bass and his family put their roots down in Knoxville, Tennessee, which they call home. Dr. Bass and his wife of more than 30 years, Shairee, love raising their four children in East Tennessee. In his free time, Dr. Bass enjoys running, gardening, eating and spending time with his family.