Vivek Rao, MD is a Internal Medicine Physician practicing at his clinic in Odessa, TX. He is a trusted local provider on kellysearch.com, dedicated to providing comprehensive Internal Medicine care for adults. Registered with The Texas Medical Board and practicing under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act), Dr. Rao understands the complexities of adult health and is committed to serving as a central point of contact for ongoing health needs. Internal Medicine Physicians (Internists) are adult primary care doctors (MD or DO) providing comprehensive preventive care, managing common and complex chronic conditions, diagnosing diverse illnesses, and coordinating specialist care for adults, serving as a central point of contact for ongoing health needs across the whole family. He serves patients 18 years and older and is currently welcoming new patients. Call (432) 333-3300 to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Vivek Rao, MD is an internist in Odessa, TX and has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of Texas at Dallas in 2001 and is affiliated with Big Bend Regional Medical Center and Medical Center Hospital. With over 20 years of dedicated experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and care to his patients. He is Board Certified in Allergy & Immunology by the American Board of Allergy & Immunology, and Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Rao is committed to a collaborative, evidence-based approach to medicine, creating a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments. Dr. Vivek Rao provides consultations primarily in English.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Rao is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Rao's approach to internal medicine care is deeply patient-centered, emphasizing proactive communication and a thorough understanding of each patient's unique health needs. He provides comprehensive preventive care, effectively manages chronic conditions, and expertly diagnoses a wide range of illnesses. His commitment to coordinating specialist care ensures seamless transitions and a cohesive approach to overall wellness, making him a trusted and reliable primary care physician for adults.
By working together, you and Dr. Rao can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Aetna
- Baylor Scott & White Health Plan
- BestChoice PPO
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- Blue PPO
- Blue Preferred Plus
- BluePPO EvolutionSM PPO
- Choice Plus POS
- Choice Plus POS II
- Cigna
- Cigna PPO
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS
- Medica Choice
- Navigate HMO
- Navigate POS
- Nexus Open Access
- Open Access Plus
- Open Choice PPO
- Options PPO
- Premier Care Network Plus - Innovation Health
- UnitedHealthCare
- Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Rao offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): If you have frequent heartburn or a sour taste in your mouth, you might have GERD; an internist can accurately diagnose this and recommend effective treatments such as dietary changes or medications.
- Cough: Internist doctors help patients manage coughs by identifying the underlying cause, whether it's an infection, environmental irritants, or a chronic condition like asthma.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: An internist can help you manage allergic conjunctivitis, a common eye allergy, by determining the cause and recommending appropriate treatment, which might include allergy medications or other strategies.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): Shortness of breath and a persistent cough could be signs of COPD; an internist can diagnose this lung condition and provide treatment to control symptoms and prevent complications.
- Food Allergy: Food allergies can be serious; an internist can help you identify your allergens and teach you how to manage them to prevent future reactions.
- Moderate Asthma: Moderate asthma requires ongoing medical attention, and an internist can provide regular check-ups, adjust your medications as needed, and teach you how to manage your asthma effectively.
- Urinary Incontinence: Urinary incontinence, or accidental urine leakage, is a common problem that an internist can assess, treat, and help you manage.
- Asthma: If you have asthma, an internist can create a personalized plan to manage your breathing problems and improve your lung health.
- Food Poisoning: Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating contaminated food, and an internist can diagnose the cause and recommend treatment to help you recover.
- Chronic Prostatitis: Chronic prostatitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the prostate gland, and an internist can help diagnose and manage your symptoms with medication and lifestyle advice.
- Chest Pain: Don't ignore chest pain an internist can assess your risk factors and conduct thorough tests to identify the cause, ensuring you receive the right care to relieve your pain and prevent future problems.
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): If you have eczema, an internist can help you understand your condition, manage your symptoms, and find the right treatment to keep your skin healthy.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Rao offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Allergy Treatment: If you suffer from allergies, an internist can help determine what you're allergic to and create a plan to manage your symptoms.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG): To assess your heart health, your doctor may use an EKG to detect problems like heart rhythm disturbances, previous heart attacks, or underlying heart conditions.
- Patch Testing: Patch testing is a way to identify what substances might be causing your skin allergy.
- Insulin Therapy: Insulin therapy involves learning how to administer insulin, monitor blood sugar, and adjust doses as needed.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy: If you're experiencing symptoms related to hormonal changes, HRT might be an option to help restore balance and improve your well-being.
- Rapid Flu Test: Getting a rapid flu test can help you know if you need antiviral medication or if you should isolate to avoid spreading the flu.
- Lab Service: Your doctor may order lab tests to check for infections, detect health problems early, or track the effectiveness of your treatment.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Rao is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, the patient experienced significant relief from the persistent heartburn and acid reflux that had been impacting their daily life. They successfully managed their GERD, leading to improved sleep and overall well-being.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis for their chronic cough, a patient learned strategies to manage their symptoms effectively and improve their overall well-being. They felt empowered to take control of their health and live more comfortably.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient experienced significant relief from the itchy, watery eyes associated with allergic conjunctivitis. They were empowered to manage their condition effectively and comfortably resume their daily activities.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
500 Adams Ave Ste 300, Odessa, TX, 79761
Phone: (432) 333-3300
View on Map
- University of Texas at Dallas (Medical School) - 2001
- American Board of Allergy & Immunology (Allergy & Immunology)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Internal Medicine care with Dr. Rao:
- What is the difference between an Internal Medicine doctor and a Family Medicine doctor?
- Internal Medicine physicians, or Internists, specialize in adult health care (typically age 18 and older). They have extensive training in diagnosing and managing complex adult illnesses and chronic conditions. Family Medicine physicians, on the other hand, care for patients of all ages, including children.
- I have multiple chronic conditions, like heart disease and diabetes. Is an Internist a good choice for me?
- Yes. Managing multiple chronic conditions is a core strength of Internal Medicine. Dr. Rao is an expert in understanding how different adult diseases interact and can coordinate all aspects of care, including medications and specialist visits, to create a cohesive health plan.
- I have a set of confusing symptoms that other doctors haven't been able to diagnose. Can an Internist help?
- Yes, an internist like Dr. Rao can be very helpful. Internists are skilled at diagnosing complex medical issues, often considered "medical detectives." Dr. Rao has extensive training in evaluating a wide range of symptoms, even those that may seem vague or unusual, to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.
- How do you coordinate care with my other doctors, like my cardiologist or surgeon?
- Dr. Rao serves as the central point for your health information, coordinating care with your cardiologist and surgeon. We manage referrals, review specialist reports, and ensure all treatments and medications work together safely and effectively.
- Do you only treat sick patients, or do you also focus on preventive care?
- Dr. Rao's practice emphasizes adult wellness and disease prevention, including annual physicals, management of risk factors like high cholesterol and blood pressure, and recommended screenings for various conditions such as cancer and osteoporosis.
- Can you help me manage my medications?
- Yes. Medication management is a critical part of internal medicine, especially for patients with multiple conditions. Dr. Rao will review all of your prescriptions (even those from specialists) to check for interactions, ensure proper dosing, and simplify your regimen whenever possible.
- Should I see an Internist for a common illness like a sinus infection?
- Yes, Dr. Rao is fully equipped to diagnose and treat common illnesses like sinus infections. As your primary care provider, he can address a wide range of adult health concerns, including respiratory infections and urinary tract infections.
- What kind of adult immunizations do you provide?
- Dr. Rao provides common adult vaccines, including the annual flu shot, tetanus boosters (Tdap), shingles (Shingrix), and pneumonia (Prevnar/Pneumovax) vaccines. He will review your immunization history and recommend vaccinations based on your age, health status, and CDC guidelines.
500 Adams Ave Ste 300
Odessa TX 79761
Phone: (432) 333-3300
Vivek Rao, MD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Physicians - Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas Medical Board.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1629084504
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas Medical Board website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. Vivek Rao are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.