Dr. Drinkard’s medical foundation began at West Virginia University, where he earned a degree in biology and chemistry in 1979 before obtaining his medical doctorate. His postgraduate training includes an internal medicine residency at George Washington University and a fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Chicago. He frequently cites his mentor, Dr. Everett Vokes, as the primary influence behind his commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered medicine.

Board-certified in four distinct specialties—internal medicine, hematology, oncology, and hospice and palliative care—Drinkard maintains an active role in several professional bodies, including the American Society of Hematology and the American College of Physicians, where he holds fellowship status. Beyond his clinical practice, he has contributed to the field through various research publications aimed at improving patient outcomes. Today, he continues to provide specialized consultations for both benign and malignant tumors, balancing high-level clinical expertise with a focus on family support during critical care transitions.