Career
James Denson Charasika, M.D. is a retired American physician, healthcare executive, and community advocate best known for his pioneering work in primary care, patient-centered medical homes, and preventive medicine in Kentucky. He practiced family medicine for more than 40 years, retiring on April 14, 2022.
Born on April 8, 1945, in Mutare, Zimbabwe, Dr. Charasika pursued his early education internationally before relocating to the United States. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree cum laude from Tennessee Wesleyan College in 1972, becoming the first Black student to reside in campus dormitories. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from Meharry Medical College in 1976, graduating 5th in a class of 99 students.
Dr. Charasika completed his Family Practice residency at the University of Louisville Affiliated Hospitals, where he was both Chief Resident and the first Black physician recruited into the Department of Family Practice. He later served as Assistant Professor and Clinical Instructor at the University of Louisville.
A founder of multiple landmark healthcare institutions, Dr. Charasika established the Louisville Primary Care Center (LPCC), the first state-licensed private primary care practice in Kentucky, later acquired by Norton Healthcare in 2007. He also founded the Louisville Patient-Centered Medical Home (LPCMH), Kentucky’s first NCQA-certified private practice, acquired by UofL Health in 2022.
Throughout his career, Dr. Charasika delivered over 5,800 babies, championed diabetic care recognized by NCQA, and led early advocacy against “sick care” in favor of preventive, patient-centered healthcare models.
In retirement, he serves as Owner and CEO of Superior Building Holding Company, LLC, and Louisville Westend Development, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on affordable housing and community investment.
About.me – Personal Overview
I am James Denson Charasika, M.D., a retired family physician, healthcare innovator, and lifelong advocate for patient-centered and preventive care.
Born in Zimbabwe and educated in both Africa and the United States, I dedicated over four decades to serving families in Kentucky—delivering more than 5,800 babies, caring for generations of patients, and helping reshape how primary care is delivered.
I founded Kentucky’s first licensed private primary care practice and later the state’s first NCQA-certified Patient-Centered Medical Home. My passion has always been treating patients like family, focusing on lifestyle change, chronic disease prevention, and access for underserved communities.
In retirement, I focus on affordable housing, nonprofit leadership, scholarships, and community development, continuing my commitment to service beyond medicine.
