Best Internists in Waco
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Internal Medicine in Waco
Overview of Internal Medicine
Internal medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide range of adult diseases. Physicians in this field, known as internists, are equipped to handle both simple and complex conditions, from common illnesses to multi-system disorders.
In Waco, as in other cities, internal medicine plays a key role in the healthcare system. Internists often serve as primary care physicians, coordinating patient care and managing chronic conditions. Their broad knowledge base allows them to address diverse health issues and provide comprehensive care to adult patients.
The Role of Internal Medicine Physicians
Internal medicine physicians in Waco serve as primary care providers for adults, offering a wide range of services. They are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care and can address most health concerns directly.
One of the primary responsibilities of internists is the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. They develop long-term treatment plans and monitor patients' progress over time.
Preventive care is another essential aspect of internal medicine. Waco's internists focus on health maintenance through regular check-ups, screenings, and lifestyle counseling to help patients avoid or delay the onset of various diseases.
Choosing an Internal Medicine Doctor in Waco
When selecting an internal medicine doctor in Waco, patients should consider several factors. These include the physician's credentials, experience, hospital affiliations, and patient reviews. For instance, our data shows that many highly-rated internists in Waco are board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Finding the right fit is essential for effective healthcare. Patients should consider factors such as the doctor's communication style, availability, and language proficiency. For example, several top-rated internists in Waco, like Dr. Neil Amar and Dr. James Copeland Jr., are noted to speak both English and Spanish, which can be beneficial for the diverse population of Waco.
What's the fastest way to connect to internists?
Our clinically-backed AI will ask you questions and provide an answer specific to your unique health situation.
List of Internists in Waco
Dr. Charles Rives
5.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine (Medical School, 2013)
English
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
LM
Dr. Lauren Miller
5.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine (Medical School)
English
Internal Medicine
JJ
Dr. James Copeland Jr
5.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English, Spanish
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Medical Branch (Medical School, 1972)
English
Spanish
Internal Medicine
JC
Dr. Juanita Castillo
5.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
TEXAS TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY (Medical School, 2008)
English
Internal Medicine
JB
Dr. Joseph Browder
5.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
TEXAS TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY (Medical School, 1977)
English
Internal Medicine
JG
Dr. James Goodsett
5.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Medical College of Wisconsin (Medical School, 1994)
English
Internal Medicine
JH
Dr. James Hodges
5.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
SOUTHWEST COLLEGE OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINEHEALTH SCIENCES (Medical School, 2000)
English
Internal Medicine
UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas (Fellowship Hospital, 2015)
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Residency Hospital, 2012)
Ivano-Frankivsk State Medical Academy (Medical School, 1999)
Kiev Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education (Internship Hospital, 1997)
English
Russian
Ukrainian
Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism
Internal Medicine
Dr. Jerod Patchin
4.8
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine - Fort Worth, TX (Medical School)
English
Internal Medicine
JN
Dr. Jose Najera-Flores
4.8
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English, Spanish
American Board of Internal Medicine
Berkshire Medical Center (Residency Hospital)
Berkshire Medical Center (Internship Hospital)
Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (Medical School, 1993)
English
Spanish
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
Hartford Hosp/U Conn (Fellowship Hospital, 2001)
University Conn School of Medicine (Residency Hospital, 1998)
University Conn School of Medicine (Internship Hospital, 1996)
Aria Health - Frankford Campus (Internship Hospital, 1995)
Aleppo Medical School (Medical School, 1988)
English
Cardiology
Interventional Cardiology
Internal Medicine
VR
Dr. Vemula Reddy
4.5
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
P.G. INSTITUTE AND KAKATIYA UNIVERSITY / NIZAM'S INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES (Medical School, 1970)
English
Internal Medicine
KV
Dr. Karen Vaughn
4.4
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English, Spanish
American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of Pediatrics
University Of Alabama Of Birmingham (Residency Hospital, 2005)
University of Texas Health Sciences Center - Houston (Medical School, 2001)
University Of Dallas, Irving, Tx (Undergraduate School, 1997)
English
Spanish
Internal Medicine
Pediatrics
GB
Dr. Gary Barbin
4.4
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University Texas Hosps (Residency Hospital, 1978)
University Texas Hosps (Internship Hospital, 1976)
University of Texas Medical Branch (Medical School, 1975)
English
Internal Medicine
Dr. Niket Sonpal
4.3
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English, Gujarati, Hindi
American Board of Internal Medicine
English
Gujarati
Hindi
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
Hepatology
Men's Health Medicine
EC
Dr. Edward Carpenter
4.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Medical Branch (Medical School, 1979)
English
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
RB
Dr. Rima Bishara
3.9
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English, Arabic
Loma Linda University (Medical School, 1986)
English
Arabic
Internal Medicine
RC
Dr. Roger Cowart
3.6
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English, Spanish
E Tenn St University Quillen College of Medicine (Residency Hospital, 1991)
American University of The Caribbean School of Medicine (Medical School, 1988)
English
Spanish
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
Internal Medicine (Internship Hospital)
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (Residency Hospital, 2009)
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (Internship Hospital, 2007)
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine (Medical School, 2006)
Baylor University (Undergraduate School, 2002)
English
Spanish
Cardiology
Interventional Cardiology
Internal Medicine
JW
Dr. Joseph White
3.3
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Scott & White Memorial Hospital (Residency Hospital, 1985)
Cleveland Clinic Foundation (Fellowship Hospital, 1985)
Scott & White Memorial Hospital (Internship Hospital, 1983)
Texas A&M University / Main Campus (Medical School, 1982)
English
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
RS
Dr. Roxann Samples
3.0
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Health San Antonio School of Dentistry (Medical School, 1986)
English
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
University Toronto (Fellowship Hospital, 1978)
University Toronto (Residency Hospital, 1974)
Mt Sinai Hospital (Internship Hospital, 1973)
National Taiwan University, College Of Medicine (Medical School, 1971)
National Taiwan University, Department of Pre-Medicine, College of Science (Undergraduate School, 1966)
English
Cantonese
Chinese
Mandarin
Mandarin
Spanish
Rheumatology
Internal Medicine
SE
Dr. Steven Elwell
2.8
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas at Dallas (Medical School, 1991)
English
Internal Medicine
SB
Dr. Srikanth Bandela
2.8
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
Khazar University School of Medicine (Medical School, 1992)
English
Internal Medicine
MN
Dr. Mark Naylor
2.7
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Dermatology
American Board of Internal Medicine
Tex Tech University Health Sci Center|Uab Hospital (Residency Hospital, 1984)
English
Internal Medicine
Dermatology
PR
Dr. Phillip Reeder
2.3
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (Medical School, 1981)
English
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
SJ
Dr. Soni Jose
2.3
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
NEW YORK Medical College (Medical School, 2006)
English
Internal Medicine
NG
Dr. Nadege Gunn
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Florida (Medical School, 2006)
English
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
MB
Dr. Madhuri Badrinath
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
English
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
CK
Dr. Chia-Dan Kang
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
English
Infectious Disease Medicine
Internal Medicine
RW
Dr. Ronald Wilson
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Baylor University (Medical School, 1974)
English
Internal Medicine
IT
Dr. Immanuel Thamban
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
MEDICAL COLLEGE OF CHRISTIAN ALBRECHTS UNIVERSITY (Medical School, 1968)
English
Internal Medicine
JC
Dr. Joe Cunningham
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
Texas A&M University / Main Campus (Medical School, 1983)
English
Internal Medicine
MB
Dr. Melisa Benham
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine (Medical School, 1985)
English
Internal Medicine
AR
Dr. Anugu Reddy
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
P.G. INSTITUTE AND KAKATIYA UNIVERSITY / NIZAM'S INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES (Medical School, 1975)
English
Internal Medicine
GS
Dr. Gordon Clark Sr
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
Tulane University of Louisiana (Medical School, 1979)
English
Internal Medicine
RS
Dr. Ross Shipp
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Medical Branch (Medical School, 1969)
English
Internal Medicine
JB
Dr. John Biboa
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine
Des Moines University (Medical School, 2008)
English
Internal Medicine
TW
Dr. Timothy Welter
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN / MADISON (Medical School, 1985)
English
Internal Medicine
BW
Dr. Benjamin Wilson
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio Long School of Medicine (Medical School, 2011)
English
Internal Medicine
LD
Dr. Larry Davis
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
American Board of Internal Medicine
University of Texas at Dallas (Medical School, 1977)
English
Internal Medicine
RC
Dr. Rangarao Chilukuri
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
YOGA COLLEGE OF INDIA (Medical School, 2005)
English
Internal Medicine
Kelly McCarver
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Female
Languages
English
English
Internal Medicine
DL
Dr. Derek Lee
N/A
Waco, TX
Sex
Male
Languages
English
English
Internal Medicine
American Board of Internal Medicine
Umass Memorial Medical Center (Fellowship Hospital, 2005)
Umass Memorial Medical Center (Residency Hospital, 2003)
Umass Memorial Medical Center (Internship Hospital, 2000)
Government Medical College, Mahatma Gandhi University (Medical School, 1991)
English
Spanish
Nephrology
Internal Medicine
Overview of the Doctor Selection Process in Waco
Resources for Finding Internal Medicine Physicians
Online directories and review platforms
- Healthgrades: Comprehensive physician profiles and patient reviews
- Local hospital websites: Affiliated physician listings
- Insurance provider directories: In-network doctor search tools
Local medical community recommendations
- Referrals from primary care physicians
- Suggestions from specialists in related fields
- Waco medical society physician finder services
Patient testimonials and word-of-mouth
- Community forums and social media groups
- Personal recommendations from friends and family
- Patient support groups for specific conditions
Evaluating Physician Credentials and Expertise
Board certifications and specializations
- American Board of Internal Medicine certification
- Subspecialty certifications (e.g., Cardiology, Gastroenterology)
- Verification through the American Board of Medical Specialties
Educational background and ongoing training
- Medical school and residency information
- Fellowship programs and advanced training
- Continuing medical education and recent certifications
Professional experience and areas of focus
- Years in practice and patient volume
- Specialized expertise within internal medicine
- Research contributions and academic affiliations
Analyzing Patient Feedback and Ratings
Interpreting online reviews and star ratings
- Understanding the context of ratings (e.g., sample size)
- Identifying patterns in patient feedback
- Balancing positive and negative reviews
Considering communication and bedside manner
- Patient comments on doctor-patient interactions
- Clarity of explanations and willingness to answer questions
- Empathy and attentiveness reported by patients
Assessing wait times and office efficiency
- Patient feedback on appointment scheduling
- Reports of in-office wait times
- Comments on staff professionalism and helpfulness
Top-Ranked Internal Medicine Doctors in Waco
Dr. Neil Amar
Credentials and Specialties
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Allergy & Immunology
- Practices both Internal Medicine and Allergy & Immunology
Education and Training
- Graduated from University of Texas Medical Branch in 2008
- Completed medical education at a respected Texas institution
Patient Satisfaction
- Perfect 5-star rating on Healthgrades
- Note: Rating based on 1 review, indicating limited patient feedback
Additional Information
- Multilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish
- Contact: (254) 751-9777
Dr. Lauren Miller
Credentials and Specialties
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine
- Focuses exclusively on Internal Medicine
Education and Training
- Graduated from University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine
- Trained at a well-regarded medical institution
Patient Satisfaction
- Impressive 5-star rating on Healthgrades
- Rating based on 8 reviews, providing a more substantial patient feedback sample
Additional Information
- Language: English
- Contact information not provided in the data
Dr. Rodney Brown
Credentials and Specialties
- Board-certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
- Practices both Internal Medicine and Cardiology
Education and Training
- Graduated from New York Medical College
- Additional certification from American Board of Medical Specialties
Patient Satisfaction
- Outstanding 5-star rating on Healthgrades
- Rating based on 11 reviews, offering a good sample of patient experiences
Additional Information
- Multilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish
- Contact: (254) 399-5400
Dr. Jose Najera-Flores
Credentials and Specialties
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine
- Focuses on Internal Medicine practice
Education and Training
- Graduated from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala in 1993
- Completed residency and internship at Berkshire Medical Center
Patient Satisfaction
- Excellent 4.8-star rating on Healthgrades
- Rating based on 24 reviews, providing a substantial sample of patient feedback
Additional Information
- Multilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish
- Contact information not provided in the data
Dr. Jerod Patchin
Credentials and Specialties
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine
- Practices Internal Medicine
Education and Training
- Graduated from Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine - Fort Worth, TX
- Trained in osteopathic medicine, offering a holistic approach to patient care
Patient Satisfaction
- Impressive 4.8-star rating on Healthgrades
- Rating based on 37 reviews, providing a robust sample of patient experiences
Additional Information
- Language: English
- Contact information not provided in the data
Additional Resources for Finding the Right Doctor
Utilizing Telemedicine Options
Benefits of virtual consultations
- Convenience for patients
- Expanded access to care
- Potential for quicker appointments
Availability of telemedicine services in Waco
- Local providers offering virtual visits
- Platforms and technologies used
Considering Specialized Care Within Internal Medicine
Subspecialties within internal medicine
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Endocrinology
- Nephrology
When to seek a specialist referral
- Complex medical conditions
- Specific organ system disorders
Insurance and Accessibility Considerations
Verifying insurance acceptance
- Contacting insurance providers
- Checking with doctor's offices
Location and office hours
- Proximity to home or work
- Availability of evening or weekend appointments
Preparing for Your First Appointment
Questions to ask a new internal medicine physician
- Communication preferences
- Approach to preventive care
- Management of chronic conditions
Medical history and documentation to bring
- List of current medications
- Recent lab results or imaging studies
- Family medical history