Dr. Arjun Patel, MD – Family Physician | La Quinta, CA

Dr. Arjun Patel, MD is a Family Physician practicing at his clinic in La Quinta, CA. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Medical Board of California (MBC) and practices under the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act).

To confirm if Dr. Arjun Patel is currently accepting new patients, please contact (760) 610-7200. Dr. Arjun Patel focuses on providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. He serves patients of all ages.

Dr. Arjun Patel, MD is a family medicine physician in La Quinta, CA. He is affiliated with Vassar Brothers Medical Center. His approach emphasizes evidence-based medicine, patient education, and fostering collaborative physician-patient relationships. Dr. Arjun Patel provides consultations primarily in English. He is committed to improving the health and well-being of his patients and the community he serves.

Dr. Arjun Patel addresses a wide range of common health concerns, including:

• Acropustulosis: Acropustulosis is characterized by recurring outbreaks of small, pus-filled spots on the fingers and toes.
• Insect Bites and Stings: Treatment is available for reactions to insect bites and stings.
• Keratosis: This is a skin condition that can appear as raised, scaly areas on the skin.
• Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath can have various causes and requires a proper medical evaluation to determine the underlying issue and appropriate treatment.
• Diffuse Palmoplantar Keratoderma - Acrocyanosis: This condition involves thickened skin on the palms and soles, along with bluish discoloration in the extremities.
• Tobacco Use Disorder: Help is available for individuals seeking to quit tobacco use.
• Ear Cellulitis: This is a skin infection near the outer ear, often causing pain and redness.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Arjun Patel addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Family Physician manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms you are experiencing, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Dr. Arjun Patel offers a range of services to meet his patients' healthcare needs, such as:

• Bone Marrow Evaluation: This may be used to diagnose or monitor blood disorders.
• Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome Testing: This checks for pressure buildup in leg muscles during strenuous activity.
• Arterial Blood Gas Test (ABG): This test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood.
• Prostate Cancer Screening Exam (DRE): A digital rectal exam to check for prostate cancer.
• Cone Beam 3D Imaging: This uses X-ray technology to create detailed 3D images of your mouth.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test measures the electrical activity of your heart.
• Water Deprivation Test: This test assesses how well your kidneys concentrate urine.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Arjun Patel. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a specialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Family Physicians in California and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

Dr. Arjun Patel is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. Whether it's managing common concerns or pursuing preventative wellness, he helps patients set and reach meaningful goals. The following examples illustrate how this collaborative approach with Dr. Arjun Patel can make a difference in patients' lives:

• With effective management, patients experience a reduction in the thickening of their palms and soles, as well as improved circulation, allowing them to comfortably resume activities they enjoy. This often leads to increased confidence and participation in social and work settings.
• After receiving appropriate treatment, patients find relief from the discomfort of insect bites and stings, allowing them to comfortably resume outdoor activities and enjoy their favorite summer pastimes. Their skin irritation subsides, and they can return to their normal routines without the worry of persistent itching or allergic reactions.
• Early detection and treatment of keratosis allows patients peace of mind knowing their skin cancer risk is reduced, enabling them to enjoy outdoor activities without worry. They can confidently resume their favorite hobbies and live life to the fullest.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of how patients, with the support of Dr. Arjun Patel, can achieve positive health outcomes and resume meaningful activities. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

The practice is located in a family medicine practice in the La Quinta, California area. It’s conveniently located near key city attractions and public services in La Quinta and is generally accessible via local transportation options serving La Quinta. The clinic is designed to be accessible to all patients, with features to accommodate various mobility needs. Patients usually find parking readily available in the vicinity of the practice.

Understanding your insurance coverage is an important step in planning your healthcare with Dr. Arjun Patel. The clinic may accept a variety of insurance plans. Below is a list of some insurance networks that Dr. Arjun Patel or the clinic may be affiliated with. However, this list is subject to change and may not be exhaustive.

Dr. Arjun Patel and the clinic may participate in various health insurance plans common in California. Please contact our office or your insurer for details.

Important Note on Insurance Verification:

Insurance networks and accepted plans can change frequently and without prior notice. The list above, if provided, is for general guidance only and may not be completely up-to-date or cover all specific plans within a network. It is imperative that patients personally verify that Dr. Arjun Patel is currently an in-network provider for their specific insurance plan, and fully understand all coverage details (including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance requirements, and any need for referrals or pre-authorizations for services with Dr. Arjun Patel) by contacting their insurance provider directly BEFORE scheduling an appointment. You should also confirm acceptance of your specific plan with our office at (760) 610-7200 when you call to schedule. While our staff can assist with general insurance questions, your insurance company is the definitive source for your coverage information. Understanding your benefits ahead of time helps prevent unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Please be aware that some services, such as certain preventative screenings not covered under your specific plan, administrative forms, or non-medically necessary procedures, may not be covered by insurance and could be your financial responsibility.

Dr. Arjun Patel may be affiliated with one or more local hospitals to ensure seamless care for patients requiring hospitalization. Affiliations can include:

• Vassar Brothers Medical Center (Poughkeepsie, NY)

He is Board Certified in Family Practice by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Arjun Patel:

Are services from Dr. Arjun Patel typically covered by health insurance in California?

Dr. Arjun Patel, as a Family Physician in California, likely accepts a variety of health insurance plans, including major private insurers, Medicare, and potentially state Medicaid programs (patients should verify Medicaid participation directly). However, it is absolutely imperative that you verify with your specific insurance provider AND with our clinic’s office at (760) 610-7200 prior to your appointment to confirm that Dr. Arjun Patel is ‘in-network’ for your plan and to understand your specific coverage details, co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and any referral requirements for specialist visits if applicable. Some services (e.g., most cosmetic procedures, some administrative forms, non-medically necessary visits) may not be covered by insurance and could result in out-of-pocket expenses. Please ask the clinic about policies for uninsured or self-pay patients if applicable.

Do I typically need a referral to see Dr. Arjun Patel as my Family Physician, or to see a specialist?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Arjun Patel to establish care as your Family Physician/Primary Care Physician (PCP), provided he is accepting new patients. However, to see most medical specialists (e.g., cardiologist, dermatologist), Dr. Arjun Patel will typically provide a referral after an assessment. Many insurance plans, particularly HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations), do require a referral from your designated PCP (Dr. Arjun Patel, if so chosen) for specialist visits to be covered. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans may offer more flexibility for self-referral to specialists, but this might result in higher out-of-pocket costs if the specialist is out-of-network or if a referral would have secured better coverage. Always check the referral requirements of your specific insurance plan.

What does it mean for Dr. Arjun Patel to be ‘in-network’ or ‘out-of-network’ with my health insurance?

‘In-network’ means Dr. Arjun Patel (or the clinic he practices at) has a contract with your health insurance company. This contract typically includes agreed-upon (often discounted) rates for services. Seeing an in-network provider usually results in lower out-of-pocket costs for you, such as lower co-pays and co-insurance, once your deductible is met. ‘Out-of-network’ means there’s no contract between the provider/clinic and your insurer. If you see an out-of-network provider, your insurance may cover a much smaller portion of the bill, or none at all, and you could be responsible for the difference between what the insurer pays and what the doctor charges (this is sometimes called ‘balance billing’). It is always best to verify Dr. Arjun Patel’s network status directly with your insurance plan by calling the member services number on your card or checking their online provider directory AND confirming with our clinic before your appointment.

What if Dr. Arjun Patel works in a group practice or medical group? Will I always see Dr. Arjun Patel?

Dr. Arjun Patel practices as part of a group practice, which often means you have access to a team of healthcare professionals, potentially including other physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), nurses, medical assistants, and sometimes on-site or closely affiliated dietitians or behavioral health specialists. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary Family Physician, Dr. Arjun Patel, for some urgent same-day issues, routine follow-ups for stable conditions, or if Dr. Arjun Patel is unavailable (e.g., on vacation or at a conference), you might be offered an appointment with another trusted member of the care team. This collaborative, team-based approach can enhance access to care, provide comprehensive support, and ensure your needs are met promptly. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Arjun Patel for complex or ongoing issues where that established physician-patient relationship is most crucial.

What should I expect during my first new patient intake appointment with Dr. Arjun Patel?

An initial new patient visit with Dr. Arjun Patel usually involves a thorough discussion about your health and the completion of intake forms. Be prepared to share your personal and family medical history, a complete list of current medications with dosages, any ongoing health issues, and your overall lifestyle. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. Dr. Arjun Patel will want to understand your health needs, concerns, and what you expect from your Family Physician/PCP. Depending on the clinic’s policy and time allotted, some physicians may perform parts of a physical exam during this first visit, or a separate preventive visit/physical exam might be scheduled for a later date. This initial consultation is key to Dr. Arjun Patel understanding your health baseline.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency (such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or major trauma), please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ER) immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until our clinic reopens (like minor sprains, UTIs, or worsening cold/flu symptoms), you may consider visiting an urgent care center. Some practices, like ours, may have an on-call physician or an answering service that can direct you to appropriate care or provide advice for urgent patient queries after hours; please check our clinic voicemail [(760) 610-7200] or website for specific after-hours instructions. Your insurance plan may also offer a 24/7 nurse advice line that can help you determine the best course of action.

What does ‘preventative care’ involve with a Family Physician like Dr. Arjun Patel in the US?

Preventative care with Dr. Arjun Patel focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious, often guided by recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), CDC, and other national bodies like the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (annual physicals or wellness visits, often covered by insurance without co-pay), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests/HPV, mammograms, colon cancer screening, lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals), immunizations (flu shots, shingles, pneumococcal, Tdap), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes and obesity, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early, and promote long-term health.

How can I find a Family Physician (Family Physician) in California who is accepting new patients and takes my insurance?

First, check your health insurance plan’s ‘Find a Doctor’ or ‘Provider Directory’ tool (often available online or via their member services phone number) to find in-network PCPs. This is the most reliable way to ensure coverage. Also use the ‘Physician Finder’ tool on the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website (familydoctor.org). The California Medical Board website may have search tools for licensed physicians. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local hospital systems or larger medical groups, as they often have affiliated family physicians who are accepting new patients and can provide lists of accepted insurances. It can be challenging, so be persistent. Always verify insurance acceptance directly with the clinic before scheduling the first appointment.

45280 Seeley Dr
La Quinta CA 92253
Phone: (760) 610-7200

Dr. Arjun Patel, MD is regulated by the California Business and Professions Code, Division 2, Chapter 5 (Medical Practice Act) in California and is licensed by The Medical Board of California (MBC).

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1194306829

Registration can typically be verified through The Medical Board of California (MBC) website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Family Physicians like Dr. Arjun Patel are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your Family Physician about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners or specialists.