First Female Advanced Endoscopist

St. Luke’s University Health Network proudly welcomes Vaishali Patel, MD, a highly regarded advanced endoscopist, to its Gastroenterology Department. Dr. Patel began her role on August 5, 2024, becoming St. Luke’s first female advanced endoscopist and bringing her vast expertise to the Allentown Campus. 

Dr. Patel’s arrival signifies a pivotal advancement for St. Luke’s as she expands access to specialized endoscopic procedures to additional St. Luke’s locations. This development not only reduces the need for patients to travel, but also enhances the Network’s competitive advantage in providing leading edge gastrointestinal care.

Additionally, it will reduce wait times, which is particularly important for urgent cases. As the first female advanced endoscopist at St. Luke’s, Dr. Patel’s presence will be particularly impactful, offering female patients a greater sense of comfort and representation. 

“I’m really hoping that the visibility of a female advanced endoscopist will not only benefit our patients, but also inspire our trainees, medical students, residents and fellows within the St. Luke’s Network,” Dr. Patel said. “Having a female provider can offer a general comfort level for female patients seeking advanced endoscopy.” 

Born and raised in Allentown, Dr. Patel is returning to the community where she grew up, bringing her expertise back to her hometown and aiming to provide exceptional care for its residents. Part of her motivation to return was to be closer to family and to provide a supportive environment for her son, who has been diagnosed with autism and attention deficit disorder. 

Dr. Patel earned her medical degree from Harvard University School of Medicine and her Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Research from Duke University, where she completed her residency and fellowship. She gained extensive experience in diagnosing and treating general gastrointestinal diseases, as well as biliary and pancreatic disorders during her eight years at Emory University Hospital. She also has a special interest in bariatric endoscopy. 

“My career has been dedicated to advancing endoscopic techniques and improving patient outcomes. I am excited to bring my expertise in bariatric endoscopy and other specialized procedures to St. Luke’s and make a positive impact on our patients’ health.” 

Her commitment to patient care and innovative approach to endoscopic procedures will elevate the standard of care at St. Luke’s, ensuring exceptional service for the St. Luke’s community. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel, please call 484-526-6545 or visit sluhn.org/GI.