The 20 Best Ulcerative Colitis Doctors Near Me in Santa Maria, CA

Find the Top Ulcerative Colitis Experts and Specialists

The 20 Best Ulcerative Colitis Doctors near Santa Maria, CA

Last Updated: 02/22/2026

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MediFind found 15 doctor with experience in Ulcerative Colitis near Santa Maria, CA. Of these, 8 are Advanced and 7 are Experienced.

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15 providers found
    Klaus T. Gottlieb
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Santa Maria Gastroenterology Medical Group

    1315 S Miller St, Ste 101, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (1.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Klaus Gottlieb is a translational scientist in immunology drug development with American Board certifications in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. He holds an MD-PhD (Dr.med.) degree from Bonn University in Germany, an MBA from Indiana University, and a Master of Science in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins.He was most recently employed at the FDA, Quintiles (IQVIA), and Synthetic Biologics, Inc. He is now a Medical Fellow with Eli Lilly and Company and practices gastroenterology part-time in Santa Maria, CA. Dr. Gottlieb is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Hemorrhagic Proctocolitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Colitis, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy.

    Keval D. Shah
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Santa Maria Gastroenterology Medical Group

    361 Town Center West, Ste 101, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (3.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Keval Shah is board certified in Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Internal Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at St. John Providence Health System in Detroit, Michigan. Following residency, he completed his Gastroenterology & Hepatology fellowship at Beaumont Health System in Detroit, Michigan. During his fellowship, he received special training in both Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Hepatology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. He was also selected as a fellow under the American Neurogastroenterology Motility Society where he received advanced clinical training in Motility at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Shah's interests include nutrition and weight loss, esophageal disorders, reflux disease and management, colorectal cancer screening, and providing patients with a holistic approach to their gastrointestinal care.Dr. Keval Shah was born and raised in California. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Human Biology from Pitzer College in Claremont, CA. He studied abroad in Costa Rica and Nicaragua where he spent time working in Emergency Medicine and became fluent in Spanish. He played tennis while in Claremont and was chosen as an NCAA Scholar-Athlete. He then attended medical school at Western University of Health Sciences/COMP in Pomona, CA. Upon medical school graduation, he was awarded the prestigious San Miguel Scholarship.When not practicing Gastroenterology, Dr. Shah enjoys spending time with his wife and two beautiful children. He enjoys playing basketball and tennis during his free time. Other hobbies include martial arts. Dr. Shah competed in the 1996 Junior Olympics and has both a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do as well as a first-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate.Wherever the art of Medicine is loved, there is also a love of Humanity.— Hippocrates. Dr. Shah is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Indigestion, Gastric Dysmotility, Childhood Volvulus, Endoscopy, and Thrombectomy.

    Atul B. Vachhani
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Santa Maria Gastroenterology Medical Group

    361 Town Center West, Ste 101, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (3.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    We understand that visiting the gastroenterologist may be a new experience for you and that you may be in pain or worried about your health. That?s why all the staff at the Santa Maria Digestive Diagnostic Center and Santa Maria Gastroenterology focus on making you feel comfortable and confident in our care. Our physicians and our medical team take extra care to listen to your concerns, answer all your questions and thoroughly explain your condition and treatment options. Dr. Vachhani is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gardner Syndrome, Turcot Syndrome, Gastrectomy, and Colonoscopy.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Sukhpreet S. Walia
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Santa Maria Gastroenterology Medical Group

    361 Town Center West, Ste 101, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (3.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Sukhpreet S. Walia earned his medical degree from Delhi University in India. He completed his internship and residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA. He was selected as Chief Resident and worked as a Hospitalist prior to completing his Gastroenterology fellowship.Dr. Walia's background in Internal Medicine allows for a comprehensive approach in treating gastrointestinal diseases. He strives to provide the highest quality gastrointestinal care for his patients.Dr. Walia believes that both the patient and physician should work together to create an atmosphere for long-lasting health outcomes. Dr. Walia is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gastric Dysmotility, Gardner Syndrome, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

    Paramjit S. Benipal
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Santa Maria Gastroenterology Medical Group

    361 Town Center West, Ste 101, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (3.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hindi, Punjabi
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    We understand that visiting the gastroenterologist may be a new experience for you and that you may be in pain or worried about your health. That?s why all the staff at the Santa Maria Digestive Diagnostic Center and Santa Maria Gastroenterology focus on making you feel comfortable and confident in our care. Our physicians and our medical team take extra care to listen to your concerns, answer all your questions and thoroughly explain your condition and treatment options. Dr. Benipal is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Colonic Malakoplakia, Gardner Syndrome, Gastrectomy, and Endoscopy.

    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Santa Maria Gastroenterology Medical Group

    361 Town Center West, Ste 101, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (3.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    We understand that visiting the gastroenterologist may be a new experience for you and that you may be in pain or worried about your health. That?s why all the staff at the Santa Maria Digestive Diagnostic Center and Santa Maria Gastroenterology focus on making you feel comfortable and confident in our care. Our physicians and our medical team take extra care to listen to your concerns, answer all your questions and thoroughly explain your condition and treatment options. Dr. Nastaskin is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Turcot Syndrome, Gardner Syndrome, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

    Albert W. Hawkins
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Internal Medicine

    Albert W. Hawkins, MD Private Practice

    1300 E Cypress St, Ste G1, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (1.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    I strive to provide my patients with the best medical care possible. Dr. Hawkins is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Autosomal Dominant Partial Epilepsy with Auditory Features, Visceromegaly, Hepatitis C, and Memory Loss.

    John P. Okerblom
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Family Medicine

    CCFC - Chapel Office

    915 E Stowell Rd, Ste B, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (1.2 miles away)
    Experience:
    47+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    I strive to provide my patients with the best medical care possible. Dr. Okerblom is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia, Xanthoma, Cirrhosis, and High Cholesterol.

    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Marian Regional Medical Center

    1400 E Church St, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (1.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Vance Rodgers is a Gastroenterologist in Santa Maria, California. Dr. Rodgers is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Hemorrhagic Proctocolitis, Painful Swallowing, Swallowing Difficulty, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

    Peter A. Krause
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Family Medicine

    Peter Alan Krause Medical Corp

    2151 S College Dr, Ste 203, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (2.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    I am also a strong believer in life after death. Our place in this world, and our mere existence on Earth, is not by chance. We all have a purpose for our existence, and it is important that we spend time daily striving to meet that purpose.I am a big believer in helping the body and mind heal themselves. Illness in general can be looked on as a breakdown of the body's natural balance. I, as a physician can aid you as a patient regain that natural balance that allows your body, mind and spirit to function at their best, no matter what your age. Using this philosophy, along with the power of modern medical science, goes a long way to maximizing our potential. Dr. Krause is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Caroli Disease, Hepatic Cystic Hamartoma, Osteoporosis, and Postmenopausal Osteoporosis.

    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Office

    361 Town Ctr W Ste 101, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (3.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Robert Evans is a Gastroenterologist in Santa Maria, California. Dr. Evans is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Gastric Dysmotility, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Internal Medicine

    Pacific Central Coast Health Centers

    117 W Bunny Ave, 
    Santa Maria, CA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Robert Schingler is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Santa Maria, California. Dr. Schingler is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Bicuspid Aortic Valve, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Hypothyroidism, and Hypertension.

    Anna B. Kim
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Internal Medicine

    Primary Care - Dignity Health - Nipomo, CA

    697 W Tefft St, 
    Nipomo, CA 
     (6.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Kim is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics and has been working as a Primary Care physician for more than 10 years. She completed her BA in Biology from Harvard University and earned her Medical Degree from New York Medical College. Dr. Kim served as Chief Resident in Pediatrics at LA County USC Hospital where she also completed her Internal Medicine Residency. She, her husband, and two children moved to the Central Coast from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to be closer to family and are enjoying hiking, swimming/surfing and exploring this areaMy philosophy has always been to treat every patient like family and take care of the whole person. I try to listen to patients and get to the root of what is bothering them. Dr. Kim is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. Her top areas of expertise are Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young, Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, and Osteoporosis.

    Michael A. Quezada
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Gastroenterology - Dignity Health - Arroyo Grande, CA

    850 Fair Oaks Ave, Suite 220, 
    Arroyo Grande, CA 
     (14.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Spanish
    Accepting New Patients

    Dr. Quezada earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from TexasA&M Health Science Center College of Medicine. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and completed his Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology/Hepatology training from Los Angeles County/University of Southern CaliforniaMedical Center. He’s skilled in general GI procedures as well as EndoscopicRetrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and performs this procedure at the French Hospital Advanced GI Lab. While in medical school, Dr. Quezada developed a health care program for medical students to participate in treatment of migrant farm worker patients. Dr. Quezada is fluent in Spanish ❝ My care philosophy is to work with my patients to developtheir health goals and do all that is possible to assist themin achieving those goals.❞—Michael Quezada, MD. Dr. Quezada is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Toxic Megacolon, Gardner Syndrome, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.

    Thomas P. Hsia
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Ulcerative Colitis
    Gastroenterology

    Santa Maria Gastroenterology Medical Group

    230 Station Way, Ste. B, 
    Arroyo Grande, CA 
     (14.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    We understand that visiting the gastroenterologist may be a new experience for you and that you may be in pain or worried about your health. That?s why all the staff at the Santa Maria Digestive Diagnostic Center and Santa Maria Gastroenterology focus on making you feel comfortable and confident in our care. Our physicians and our medical team take extra care to listen to your concerns, answer all your questions and thoroughly explain your condition and treatment options. Dr. Hsia is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. His top areas of expertise are Enlarged Liver, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gardner Syndrome, Gastrectomy, and Endoscopy.

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    Last Updated: 02/22/2026

    What is the definition of Ulcerative Colitis?

    Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by the development of ulcers in the lining of the digestive tract, which most often affect the colon and rectum. While ulcerative colitis can occur at any age, it most frequently appears between the ages of 15 and 30, or after the age of 60. There are several types of ulcerative colitis that are categorized by the area of the digestive tract affected by the disease, such as ulcerative proctitis (inflammation of area closest to the rectum), proctosigmoiditis (inflammation of the sigmoid colon and rectum), left-sided colitis (inflammation of descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum), pancolitis (inflammation of the entire colon), and a rare form of ulcerative colitis known as acute severe ulcerative colitis (severe inflammation of entire colon). Ulcerative colitis can also affect other areas of the body, causing inflammation of the skin, eyes, liver, joints, and back.

    When should I see an Ulcerative Colitis doctor near Santa Maria, CA?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing an Ulcerative Colitis doctor near Santa Maria, CA?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Ulcerative Colitis doctors near Santa Maria, CA?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Ulcerative Colitis doctors near Santa Maria, CA?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with an Ulcerative Colitis doctor near Santa Maria, CA?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Ulcerative Colitis doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Ulcerative Colitis doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with an Ulcerative Colitis doctor near Santa Maria, CA?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Ulcerative Colitis doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Ulcerative Colitis doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Ulcerative Colitis doctors near Santa Maria, CA?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Ulcerative Colitis doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find an Ulcerative Colitis doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Ulcerative Colitis doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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