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Portrait of Dr. Monali Patel
Provider profile

Monali Patel, MD

Clinical Neurologist · Stroke & TBI Specialist · Otoneurologist

Specialty
Otoneurology
Education
MD · Chicago Medical School
Residency
Neurology · Temple University
Leadership
Stroke Program Director
Recognition · Top Doctor All covers ↓
Top Doctor 2026 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2025 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2024 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2023 — San Diego Magazine

Monali Patel, M.D. is a Neurologist with a special interest in OtoNeurology, Vestibular and Balance disorders, and also specializes in Headache disorders, a combination of subspecialties that is unique to the San Diego medical community. Along with a comprehensive and compassionate medical approach, she collaborates unique procedures for optimal management. These include Trigger Point injections, Occipital nerve block injections, IR Occulography, Rotational Chair evaluation & treatment for vertigo, Computerized Dynamic Posturography, VNG, EEG, and EMG/NCV.

She is dedicated to being at the forefront of technology, understanding the latest advancements in neurologic diseases, and keeping a patient centered approach with exceptional care. A native of Chicago, Dr. Monali Patel has received many honors and distinctions.

She graduated with high honors and on the Dean's List from the Illinois Institute of Technology, where she received her undergraduate degree in Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics and graduated from the Honors Program in Engineering & Medicine. She obtained her medical degree from the Chicago Medical School, and was selected as the Student Dean. Dr. Patel completed her internship in Internal Medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia, and was recognized amongst the top of her class as a "Resident of the Year." She completed her residency training in Neurology at Temple University Hospital, where she served as Chief Resident.

Clinical focus

Specializations

Dr. Patel's practice spans several interconnected areas of clinical neurology, each informed by advanced training and years of dedicated patient care.

Headache & Traumatic Brain Injury

Nationally recognized for treating headaches and traumatic brain injuries. Dr. Patel incorporates a holistic approach, combining naturopathic measures with targeted treatments — including CGRP agents and Botox — to address a wide spectrum of headache types and traumatic brain injuries. Her experience also covers care for post-concussive patients.

Seizure Management

A key opinion leader in the field of seizure medication, Dr. Patel has shaped national perspectives on seizure management. Her advocacy extends through her support and participation in the Epilepsy Foundation's Gingerbread City Gala, emphasizing her role in both medical and community spheres.

International Contributions

Dr. Patel has expanded her medical influence internationally by launching a medical clinic in India. This initiative reflects her dedication to improving healthcare accessibility and quality globally, leveraging her expertise to foster health development beyond local communities.

NMO Research

Involved in groundbreaking research on Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO), Dr. Patel frequently presents her findings at grand rounds and medical conferences. Her research contributes to deeper understanding and innovative treatments for this rare disease.

Stroke leadership

Founding Director — Stroke Programs

As the founding director of the stroke programs at Paradise Valley Hospital and Alvarado Hospital, Dr. Patel has been pivotal in achieving Primary Stroke Center certification by The Joint Commission.

She is a prominent advocate for stroke awareness, actively involved in community programs like "Strike Out Stroke" with the San Diego Padres and local educational initiatives to enhance stroke prevention and recovery.

Joint Commission

Primary Stroke Center certification at Paradise Valley and Alvarado Hospitals.

Community Outreach

"Strike Out Stroke" partnership with the San Diego Padres.

Career

Achievements & Education

Awards

Top Neurologist in San Diego · Three Best Neurologists in San Diego · Leading Physician of the World (IAHP)

Education

BS Molecular Biochemistry & Biophysics — Illinois Institute of Technology (high honors) · MD — Chicago Medical School (Student Dean) · Neurology Residency — Temple University Hospital (Chief Resident)

Certifications

Specialty focus in Headache and Traumatic Brain Injury Management · Botox, Trigger Point, and Occipital Nerve Block procedures

Teaching

Invited lecturer to physician, resident, and student groups. Resident of the Year at Temple University internal medicine program.

In the media

Top Doctors — San Diego Magazine

In the October 2021 issue of San Diego Magazine, "Stop the Spinning and Say Goodbye to Your Headaches" spotlights the innovative work of Dr. Monali Patel and Dr. Ian Purcell — a feature highlighting how their unique blend of expertise and passion offers new hope to those suffering from complex neurological disorders.

All Top Doctor covers
Top Doctor 2026 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2025 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2024 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2023 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2022 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2021 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2018 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2017 — San Diego Magazine Top Doctor 2016 — San Diego Magazine
Advanced diagnostics

Diagnostic Testing

Dr. Patel utilizes the full suite of advanced neurodiagnostic technologies at the practice — each test interpreted to guide precise, targeted treatment.