Rakesh Patel
Pronouns: He/Him
Lecturer
Global Health Management & Policy
SDSU
Primary Email: [email protected]
Bio
Dr. Rakesh Patel is a board-certified family physician and healthcare executive who serves as Chief Executive Officer of Neighborhood Healthcare, a Federally Qualified Health Center and PACE organization providing comprehensive care to more than 100,000 patients across Southern California. Under his leadership, Neighborhood Healthcare has expanded access to primary care, dental, behavioral health, and senior services across multiple communities.
Dr. Patel’s career reflects a deep commitment to mission-driven leadership, operational excellence, and health equity. He is recognized for balancing clinical, operational, and financial priorities while driving innovation in care delivery and community health. His leadership has positioned Neighborhood Healthcare as a model for integrating data, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve quality and patient experience.
In addition to his executive role, Dr. Patel is Board Chair of Integrated Health Partners, a clinically integrated network of FQHCs advancing value-based care across the region. He also serves on multiple boards, including the California Primary Care Association (Past Chair), CalPACE, 211 San Diego, and Sharp Healthcare’s Patient Quality and Safety Board. He is a Certified Physician Executive (CPE), a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (FAAFP).
Education
- MBA, Isenberg School of Management at University of Massachusetts, 2018
- Scripps Health Family Medicine Residency, 2000 - 2003
- MD, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2000
- BS, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 1995