Kavita D. Patel, MD

Title: Family Physician

Education: Albert Einstein College of Medicine for medical school; Duke University for undergraduate degree (BA in cultural anthropology)

Residency: Duke University

Language(s): Spanish, Hindi

I went to medical school knowing I wanted to be a primary care provider. I believe primary care is an integral part of the foundation of healthcare. Often times it is the first point of contact with the healthcare system for patients, and it is the location for the cultivation of long-term meaningful therapeutic relationships. I also have a deep passion and long-standing commitment to working with marginalized communities. As a child, I saw the pain of dire poverty in my parents’ country of origin when we would go to visit. This memory has stuck with me and shaped my life decisions. From working in low-income clinics in Guatemala, Peru, and Argentina, to being a community organizer and health educator for ten years in North Carolina, I have had the privilege to serve the underserved in a variety of contexts. Given this background, it’s not a surprise that I have landed here at Mary’s Center, a place that echoes my beliefs. In my spare time, I enjoy going for walks, watching movies, reading, and eating good food.