Vimala Patel

Family Nurse Practitioner Connects with Patients via Telemedicine

“Even minor illnesses or conditions can be a worry. I try to put my patients’ minds at ease by explaining exactly what is going on.”

As a member of Vanguard’s eCare team, Vimala Patel enjoys connecting with patients. This advanced practice registered nurse doesn’t mind the screen; it’s simply a portal into the lives of the people she meets. “I love the variety in family medicine and the opportunity to help my patients address acute and chronic conditions and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle,” she said. “The virtual visit gives patients more flexibility and sometimes makes them more comfortable.”

Vimala began her career in an intensive care unit (ICU) in her home country of India. She came to the U.S. to complete her master’s in nursing, and then began work in the States in dialysis. As a nephrology nurse, she helped patients with renal failure as well as those with urinary issues, kidney stones, and other ailments.

She went on to work in asthma and allergy, motivated by an interest in that area. “I wanted to know as much as possible about allergies so that I could help people suffering from them,” she said. She continues to work per diem there, and in urgent care for continuing in-person clinical experience.

Vimala joined Vanguard to be on the cutting edge of telemedicine. As a member of the eCare Telemedicine team, she provides focused medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for patients remotely via a phone call or videoconference. “I try to explain in detail what is happening with their health and guide them toward next steps,” she said. “Once they understand, my patients often seem relieved. They are so thankful.”

When she’s not working, Vimala enjoys gardening. She also loves to travel with her husband and children.