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315 verified Internists in Orange County, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 06/21/2026
Availability last updated 06/21/2026
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·30 reviews
Irvine, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Billy Zhang is a board-certified Internist with an eclectic background, having trained in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and working as a primary care provider in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Zhang's area of interest is providing patient centered care, understanding the best way to team up and address bo...Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·10 reviews
It was a great visit with Dr. Alexander Tran. He was kind, professional and took the time to answer my question!:) by SRClick to read more
6.5 mi · 2000 E Chapman Ave, Ste 100, Fullerton, CA 92831
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Alexander Tran is an internist at Pyo Clinic in Upland, CA. He also offers virtual consultations. He welcomes adult patients with common illnesses, chronic diseases, and minor injuries that affect their quality of life. Dr. Tran understands patients' conditions and prepares individualized treat...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·10 reviews
It was a great visit with Dr. Alexander Tran. He was kind, professional and took the time to answer my question!:) by SRClick to read more
Fullerton, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Alexander Tran is an internist at Pyo Clinic in Upland, CA. He also offers virtual consultations. He welcomes adult patients with common illnesses, chronic diseases, and minor injuries that affect their quality of life. Dr. Tran understands patients' conditions and prepares individualized treat...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.82
·127 reviews
Very personable! Gave me so much time! I truly appreciated her comfort and support. - Dec 31, 2025 by Kristin V.Click to read more
Irvine, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 2 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Welcome, and thank you for considering my practice. I’m a board-certified internal medicine physician, trained at the University of Southern California (USC), with over 20 years of experience in patient care, proudly serving the Irvine community. As a primary care physician, I specialize in weight ...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.96
·27 reviews
Dr. Farhad Nassiri Afshar was incredible! Very friendly, attentive, and a genuine pleasure to work with. He took the time to listen carefully and was eager to understand the root of the concerns I came in with, rather than rushing through the appointment like some other doctors and waving away conce...Click to read more
Irvine, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 1 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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PPO-only adult PCP/internal medicine in Irvine. Anthem Blue Cross PPO, Aetna PPO, Cigna PPO, and UnitedHealthcare PPO. Not Blue Shield of CA or HMO. Free cancellation within 24h of booking; then $60. I’m Farhad Nassiri Afshar, MD, an ABIM-certified internist and founder of Afshar Medical Group. I p...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
4.85
·483 reviews
Very nice and friendly I was very happy with my visit.Click to read more
Fountain Valley, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 8 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Wasim Raja is a skilled and experienced internist. He currently runs his own practice, based in Fountain Valley, CA, and holds licenses to practice in Texas, Nebraska, and Colorado. Fluency in English, Urdu, and Punjabi has made him accessible to various culturally diverse communities. Dr. Raj...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.99
·75 reviews
Had a great first visit. Dr. Pham was informative, friendly and answered all my questions in detail. - Dec 2, 2022 by Hera Y.Click to read more
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Chelsea Pham-Wightman is a board-certified Family Medicine Physician who recently graduated from the University of Iowa residency program. She is returning to Orange County, where she was born and raised. Dr. Pham earned her Doctor of Medicine from Ross University School of Medicine and complete...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.88
·16 reviews
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Vincent Pan is a board certified Family Medicine physician. An Orange County native, he completed medical school at Touro Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine before finishing his residency at Loma Linda University Health. He has clinical experience in FQHC, private practice, preventative heal...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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My goal is to provide quality care to patients of all ages, and to empower my patients to take charge of their own health. As an osteopathic family practice physician, I strive to treat the patient as a whole person. I thoroughly enjoy my profession, and truly hope to make a difference in the lives ...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Howard provides state-of-the-art medical care, using the latest evidence-based medical techniques. He believes that patients should be treated as if they were his own family members. Dr. Howard loves practicing family medicine because he can develop long-term relationships with his patients. Whe...Click to read more
Family Physician
0.5 mi · 845 W La Veta Ave, Ste 108, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Howard provides state-of-the-art medical care, using the latest evidence-based medical techniques. He believes that patients should be treated as if they were his own family members. Dr. Howard loves practicing family medicine because he can develop long-term relationships with his patients. Whe...Click to read more
Family Physician
0.5 mi · 845 W La Veta Ave, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Jenny Wang is a boardcertified family medicine physician who has been in practice at community health centers dedicated to helping underserved populations and promoting health equity. She has relocated to Orange County in 2022 and looks forward to continue to care for a diverse patient populatio...Click to read more
Family Physician
0.5 mi · 845 W La Veta Ave, Ste 108, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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My goal is to provide quality care to patients of all ages, and to empower my patients to take charge of their own health. As an osteopathic family practice physician, I strive to treat the patient as a whole person. I thoroughly enjoy my profession, and truly hope to make a difference in the lives ...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·4 reviews
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Jeremy Feck is board certified in Family Medicine. He completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine before finishing his residency at Mercy Medical Center in Redding California. Dr. Feck’s areas of expertise and clinical areas of interest include care for patient’s of all...Click to read more
Pediatrician
4.97
·35 reviews
I like the way Dr.Hoang communicate with my child. She is very playful and explain clearly to my son what he needs to do in order to grow healthy. She was very professional and she was very knowledgeable to be able to answer all of our questions. Highly recommend Dr. Hoang and we’ll definitely come ...Click to read more
1 mi · 1100 West Stewart Drive, Orange, CA 92868
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Please note that this provider only sees children and adolescents under the age of 18. Dr. Lisa Hoang comes from a large family and, as the eldest, has always taken care of the younger children. From this experience, she knew she had the patience and love for caring for children. The energy and cur...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·30 reviews
Yorba Linda, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Charlene Lin completed medical school at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine followed by her internal medicine internship and residency training at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital. Her areas of expertise and clinical interests include management of complex and chron...Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·30 reviews
7.5 mi · 4300 Rose Dr, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Charlene Lin completed medical school at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine followed by her internal medicine internship and residency training at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital. Her areas of expertise and clinical interests include management of complex and chron...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Yorba Linda, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Anthony Bae is a board-certified internist practicing with St. Jude Heritage Medical Group in Yorba Linda, CA.Click to read more
Internist
7.5 mi · 4300 Rose Dr, Ste M, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Anthony Bae is a board-certified internist practicing with St. Jude Heritage Medical Group in Yorba Linda, CA.Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·30 reviews
Anaheim, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Ammar Dahodwala is a board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Originally from South Jersey right outside Philadelphia (go Phillies, Eagles, and Sixers!), Dr. Dahodwala completed his medical school training at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University where he w...Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·30 reviews
8 mi · 8078 E Santa Ana Canyon Rd, Anaheim, CA 92808
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Ammar Dahodwala is a board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Originally from South Jersey right outside Philadelphia (go Phillies, Eagles, and Sixers!), Dr. Dahodwala completed his medical school training at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University where he w...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Being a physician was a natural calling for me. I strive to deliver the best care at all times while healing and comforting patients that I see. I spend every free minute of my time with my three adorable boys, in addition to my husband.Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·32 reviews
I have had two really bad experiences with doctors since moving out here and he was very nice, helpful and encouraging. Finally a good experience - Sep 10, 2024 by Matthew R.Click to read more
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 204, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Philosophy of Care I went into family medicine to provide comprehensive, continuous, and caring medical services to the entire family. I completed my medical education at Yonsei University College of Medicine, followed by an internship at Methodist Hospital and a residency at Catholic Medical Cent...Click to read more
Family Physician
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 204, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Philosophy of Care I became a physician because I wanted to give compassionate care to others. I enjoy the one-on-one relationships I develop with my patients, and enjoy the time spent providing service to them. Hobbies In my free time, I enjoy motorcycle riding, water sports, carpentry and spendin...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care I became a physician because I wanted to give compassionate care to others. I enjoy the one-on-one relationships I develop with my patients, and enjoy the time spent providing service to them. Hobbies In my free time, I enjoy motorcycle riding, water sports, carpentry and spendin...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Kristi Kwan is a board-certified family medicine physician practicing with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group in Orange, CA.Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·32 reviews
I have had two really bad experiences with doctors since moving out here and he was very nice, helpful and encouraging. Finally a good experience - Sep 10, 2024 by Matthew R.Click to read more
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care I went into family medicine to provide comprehensive, continuous, and caring medical services to the entire family. I completed my medical education at Yonsei University College of Medicine, followed by an internship at Methodist Hospital and a residency at Catholic Medical Cent...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Bernadine D'Eramo is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She attended Cal State Long Beach, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then attended Cal State Dominquez Hills to become a Family Nurse Practitioner earning a Master of Science in Nursing. Bernadine is passionate on...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·39 reviews
Punctual - Oct 12, 2023 by Jeffrey R.Click to read more
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 305, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Philosophy of Care My main goal and interest is making a positive difference in people's lives through health. I believe in preventing illness and recognize the importance of working together to achieve well-being. As a family physician trained at the University of California, Irvine—where I earne...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·7 reviews
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 306, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Eddie Shum is a Family Medicine physician practicing in Orange County, CA.Click to read more
Pediatrician
5.00
·30 reviews
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Please note that this provider only sees children and adolescents under the age of 18. Dr. Marc Bennett enjoys the energy and enthusiasm children bring into his medical practice. He is continually amazed at the strength of character and spirit that young people possess. Dr. Bennett prides himself o...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·1 review
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Kristi Kwan is a board-certified family medicine physician practicing with St. Joseph Heritage Medical Group in Orange, CA.Click to read more
Pediatrician
5.00
·30 reviews
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Please note that this provider only sees children and adolescents under the age of 18. Dr. Villasenor's love of children started at a young age. Coming from a large family of twelve children, she has always had a passion for caring for others. She grew up here in Santa Ana, California, and complete...Click to read more
Family Physician
4.97
·36 reviews
Very friendly and professional. Addressed all my concerns and offered advice/solutions. - Jan 18, 2024 by Mark K.Click to read more
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Matthew Schroeder is a family physician and primary care doctor in California who practices at St. Joseph - Family Medicine. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Illinois, Rockford, IL, and completed his residency at PIH Health Whittier Hospital in Whittier, CA. Dr. Sc...Click to read more
Family Physician
1.5 mi · 2501 E Chapman Ave, Ste 306, Orange, CA 92869
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Being a physician was a natural calling for me. I strive to deliver the best care at all times while healing and comforting patients that I see. I spend every free minute of my time with my three adorable boys, in addition to my husband.Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·39 reviews
Punctual - Oct 12, 2023 by Jeffrey R.Click to read more
Orange, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Philosophy of Care My main goal and interest is making a positive difference in people's lives through health. I believe in preventing illness and recognize the importance of working together to achieve well-being. As a family physician trained at the University of California, Irvine—where I earne...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
Fullerton, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Communication is essential to effective treatment for Dr. David Ruckman. He believes in taking as much time as necessary with each patient to listen to their concerns and needs and to educate them about their condition and treatment options. For Dr. Ruckman, deciding to become a physician was a natu...Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·30 reviews
It was quick, simple, and helpful. Got everything I needed in matter of minutes. They understood my specific request and adapted quickly. - Nov 13, 2025 by Simon B.Click to read more
8.5 mi · 2141 N Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92835
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Johnny Wu is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician with St. Jude Heritage Medical Group. He received his medical degree from Saint Louis University in 2019 and finished Internal Medicine residency at the University of Illinois, Chicago in 2022. Dr. Wu's clinical interests include preven...Click to read more
Internist
8.5 mi · 2141 N Harbor Blvd, Ste 25000, Fullerton, CA 92835
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Communication is essential to effective treatment for Dr. David Ruckman. He believes in taking as much time as necessary with each patient to listen to their concerns and needs and to educate them about their condition and treatment options. For Dr. Ruckman, deciding to become a physician was a natu...Click to read more
Internist (Virtual)
5.00
·30 reviews
It was quick, simple, and helpful. Got everything I needed in matter of minutes. They understood my specific request and adapted quickly. - Nov 13, 2025 by Simon B.Click to read more
Fullerton, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Johnny Wu is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician with St. Jude Heritage Medical Group. He received his medical degree from Saint Louis University in 2019 and finished Internal Medicine residency at the University of Illinois, Chicago in 2022. Dr. Wu's clinical interests include preven...Click to read more
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Doctor
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Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
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In the business of finding quality care for patients

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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with an Internist in Orange County?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for an Internist in Orange County, book an appointment, and see the Internist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Internists in Orange County who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find an Orange County Internist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Orange County Internist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with an Internist in Orange County?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Internists in Orange County and book appointments instantly. You can search for Orange County Internists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Internist in Orange County?

When you search for Orange County Internists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Internists in Orange County who match your preferences.


How can I find an Orange County Internist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Orange County Internists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Internist in Orange County?

You can use Zocdoc to find Internists in Orange County who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with an Internist online in Orange County?

Internists in Orange County on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Internists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with an Internist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Internists in Orange County who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find an Internist in Orange County who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Internist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find an Internist in Orange County who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Internists in Orange County. Many Internists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who is an internist?

An internist or internal medicine physician is an expert who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating ailments of the internal organs and systems of the body. They provide routine checkups to manage complex medical conditions. They do not perform surgery and only treat adults. 


Internists may work in private practices, clinics, or hospitals. They may also work in different care settings like rehabilitation facilities or centers for hospice care. They take the time to listen to their patient's concerns, conduct thorough exams, and develop customized treatment plans based on every individual's unique needs and goals. They are committed to providing patient-centered care. They thus often create long-lasting bonds with their patients.


Educational qualification of an internist

Becoming an internal medicine physician takes about 11 years of schooling and training. An aspirant must complete a four-year bachelor's or undergraduate degree in a pre-medical course such as biology or chemistry. They then need to enroll in medical school for a four-year program and attain their medical degree. 


After this, they must complete a residency program in internal medicine. Residency programs last at least three years, after which internists can start practicing. They may sign up for a fellowship program to specialize in a bench within internal medicine. They may obtain the board certification by qualifying for the exam conducted by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine or the American Board of Internal Medicine.


Subspecialties of internal medicine

Each of the subspecialties within internal medicine focuses on a specific area. Some of the common subspecialties of internal medicine include:


  • Cardiology: Cardiologists diagnose and treat heart and vascular system disorders. These include coronary artery disease, endocarditis, dysrhythmias, valvular heart disease, and disorders of the veins, arteries, and pulmonary circulation.
  • Gastroenterology: Gastroenterologists focus on diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract consisting of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, colon, and rectum.
  • Pulmonology: Pulmonologists specialize in treating the respiratory system, including the chest wall, lungs, upper airways, and thoracic cavity. They commonly address chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, pulmonary hypertension, interstitial and occupational lung diseases, tuberculosis, and cystic fibrosis.
  • Nephrology: Nephrologists are experts in kidney-related conditions. They care for glomerular diseases (such as glomerulonephritis or nephrotic syndrome), tubulointerstitial kidney diseases, and tubular defects.
  • Endocrinology: Endocrinologists deal with hormonal disorders and ailments related to the endocrine system, which include thyroid disorders, diabetes, adrenal cortex dysfunction, gonadal disease, lipid metabolism, osteoporosis, and more.
  • Rheumatology: Rheumatologists focus on disorders of the musculoskeletal system and autoimmune ailments like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory muscle diseases, polychondritis, and sports injuries.
  • Hematology: Hematologists hold expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of blood-related conditions. Common conditions they manage are anemia, hematological malignancies and other clonal processes, and disorders of hemostasis, coagulation, and thrombosis.
  • Oncology: Oncologists are specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. They may focus on medical oncology (treating cancer with medication) or hematology-oncology (treating blood cancers and solid tumors).
  • Infectious disease: Infectious disease specialists are experts in diagnosing and managing conditions caused by viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections.


These subspecialties represent the diverse areas of expertise within internal medicine, allowing physicians to focus on specific organ systems or medical conditions. 


What are some conditions treated by internal medicine physicians?

An internist near you gets trained to diagnose and treat many medical conditions affecting adult patients. Some of the most common conditions internists treat include:


  • Diabetes: These specialists can diagnose and manage diabetes, which affects how the body uses insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Infectious diseases: Specific conditions include flu, influenza, pneumonia, and sexually transmitted infections.
  • Cardiovascular disease: Internists can diagnose and manage high blood pressure and cholesterol, a common ailment that can increase heart disease and stroke risk. They can also diagnose and manage various heart conditions, including heart attacks, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
  • Pulmonary disease: These physicians can diagnose and coordinate care for patients with respiratory system disorders, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
  • Rheumatic diseases: These specialists can diagnose and treat arthritis and other joint and bone ailments and injuries.
  • Gastrointestinal diseases: Internal medicine physicians can diagnose and treat gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), ulcers, and infectious diarrhea.


How do you prepare for an appointment with an internist near you?

If you schedule an appointment to see an internist, there are several things you can do to prepare for your visit. These include:


  • Write down a list of your symptoms and issues. 
  • List questions about your health or medical conditions so you remember to ask them during your appointment. It will help you stay focused during the meeting and ensure that you get the information you need.
  • Bring a copy of your medical history to your appointment if you have any chronic medical condition, and collect your family's medical history. 
  • List your medications, including prescription drugs and any alternate treatments taken.
  • Gather all relevant medical information, like any recent test results or X-rays.
  • Bring a close relative or friend with you to the appointment. They can offer support during the visit.
  • Jot down the doctor's contact in case of an emergency.


Difference between an internist and a family practice doctor

While there are some similarities between internal medicine and family practice, there are also crucial differences.


Family medicine covers patients of all ages, from children to adults. So, when you see a family doctor, they are trained to handle health issues affecting people at every stage of life, from infants to the elderly.


Internal medicine, on the other hand, focuses specifically on adult patients. Just like pediatricians focus on children, internal medicine doctors (internists) are dedicated to adults' unique health needs and risks throughout their lives.


Family doctors have broad training in various medical issues across all age groups. While some may have specialized training, most are focused on general outpatient care, including diagnosing and managing acute illnesses and chronic conditions and providing preventive care.


An internist near you also has general medical training, including preventive care, but their focus is solely on adults. In addition, they receive extensive education and experience in specialized areas like psychiatry, dermatology, orthopedics, infectious diseases, and more, so they can provide comprehensive care to adult patients at every stage of their lives.


Lastly, while family doctors usually provide outpatient care and may refer patients to specialists for hospital treatment, internists are more likely to treat hospital patients. They receive detailed training in outpatient and inpatient care, making them more equipped to handle hospital-based treatments.


How to find the best internist near you in Orange, California?

It is essential to consult the correct internal medicine physician to help you with your health concerns. Finding the right internist can be challenging. Zocdoc is the right platform to connect you with the best healthcare providers in just a few simple steps. 


To find a top-rated internist near you in Orange, California, simply log in on Zocdoc with your free account. Enter your symptoms or specialty of the provider (Internist), location, preferred date, and insurance details such as carrier and plan. You can further filter your search using advanced criteria like gender, hospital affiliations, and languages they speak. 


Zocdoc's insurance detector can help you identify your insurance details if unsure about them. Suppose you don't see your insurance plan listed on Zocdoc. In that case, you can upload a photo of your insurance card (this feature is only available for medical insurance, not vision or dental). We'll scan the image and show you the most likely matched plan. If you need help uploading the card image, contact our service team. You can check out Zocdoc’s insurance page for more insurance-related questions.


Once you get directed to a list of highly qualified internists, you can learn more about them through their dedicated profiles. The profiles include a brief introduction and background of the provider, including their education, expertise, experience, practice location, board certification, and even the awards they have won. 


You can also read the patient reviews while choosing your specialist. Zocdoc follows a closed-loop review system. The patient reviews are accurate and verified and can help you make an informed decision. On Zocdoc, you can also book video or online consultations before in-person visits. The purple video icon on the doctor's profiles will help you identify which ones offer online consultations. 


Book appointments with a top-rated internist near you who accepts your insurance in real time! All appointment bookings on Zocdoc are fast, free, and secure!


Cardiovascular disease and internal medicine physician statistics in California, United States

America's Health Rankings (2019-2020) highlights that the percentage of women between ages 18 and 44 who reported having experienced a cardiovascular disease such as a heart attack, angina, coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, or a stroke in the U.S. was about 2.1%. This number was around 2% in California.


Access to the best care available is essential to maintain good health. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were around 58,260 active general internal medicine physicians in the U.S. in 2021. Most of these internists (34,170) were employed in the offices of physicians, followed by general medical and surgical hospitals (17,450) and outpatient care centers (2,910). California ranked second with around 4,220 active general internal medicine physicians. These highly dedicated professionals provide patient-centered care and diagnose, treat, and prevent adult diseases across the state.


Sources

WebMD

Indus Medical Associates

America's Health Rankings

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 

American College of Physicians[1]

University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Washington Township Medical Foundation

American College of Physicians[2]

American College of Physicians[3]

American College of Physicians[4]

American College of Physicians[5]

American College of Physicians[6]

American College of Physicians[7]

American College of Physicians[8]

American College of Physicians[9]

American College of Physicians[10]

American College of Physicians[11]

Matthews Internal Medicine


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

Zocdoc›Internists›Orange County, CA