Kumkum Sarkar Patel, MD Title: Gastroenterologist Education: Virginia Commonwealth University, Dartmouth School of Medicine Expertise: Gastroenterology Board-certified in gastroenterologyBoard-certified in internal medicine Committee Member, American College of Gastroenterology's Women in GIFormer host, Equity And Levity Summit in Orange County, California2023 Healthcare Innovator of the Year by the Irvine Chamber of Commerce Experience Kumkum Sarkar Patel, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist and healthcare consultant. She specializes in helping people with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, esophageal, and anorectal disorders.Dr. Patel also serves on the American College of Gastroenterology's Women in GI Committee to promote advancement for women in gastroenterology. She is also a motivational speaker for women's health, work-life balance, postpartum depression, burnout, and gut-health related to mental health. I am inspired to be a gastroenterologist as all disease begins in the gut. So naturally—all health begins in the gut. I am most fascinated by the gut brain axis and the intimate relationship between gut health and mental health.-Kumkum Sarkar Patel, MD Education Dr. Patel received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University. She earned her Master's degree in Public Health from Dartmouth Medical School and her medical degree from St. George’s University.She completed her residency in internal medicine at the NYU Winthrop Hospital before completing her Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Illinois. She also completed specialized training in gastroenterology motility disorders at Washington University through the American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society. About Health Health, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is an award-winning online resource for empathetic, trustworthy, and actionable health and wellness information so you can make the best choice for your health. We reach more than 9 million readers a month. We ensure the accuracy of our content by relying on seasoned health journalists, credentialed medical professionals and thorough fact checkers. Learn more about us and our editorial process.