UCI Health gastroenterologist Dr. Nimisha Parekh recognized as Woman of Impact
Leader is dedicated to research, treatment of complex digestive disorders, advancing others
March 13, 2025
Dr. Nimisha Parekh is director of the UCI Health Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program at the Chao Digestive Health Institute.
Credit: Carla Rhea for Orange Coast
Orange, Calif. — UCI Health gastroenterologist Dr. Nimisha Parekh, a national leader in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disorders, has been recognized as an Orange County Woman of Impact in the most recent issue of Orange Coast Magazine.
Parekh has a number of roles at UCI Health, including clinician, educator, researcher and respected leader. As director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Program, the board-certified gastroenterologist has helped countless people living with complex digestive disorders.
She has built a dedicated IBD team within the UCI Health Chao Digestive Health Institute that is renowned for its approach to multidisciplinary clinical care. As a researcher, Parekh is dedicated to uncovering new drug treatments for IBD and understanding the role of ethnicity in treatment outcomes for women’s health.
“As a physician, I wear many hats, giving patients not just my expertise, but also my empathy and advocacy as they navigate the challenges of their illness,” she said.
“I strive to be an inspiration to young people, to encourage them to believe in themselves, and to value a career of service that makes a positive impact on the lives of individuals and their communities.”
Parekh has long been committed to the advancement of others. As the associate dean for faculty development at the UC Irvine School of Medicine, Parekh has developed leadership initiatives that have helped faculty grow in their careers.
In 2014, Parekh founded a weeklong program for high school students that has enabled hundreds of them to interact with healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses and other critical team members. Of the program’s more than 350 participants, at least 75% of them have pursued healthcare careers.
“Enhancing the lives of others has been the mission of my life and career as a physician, educator and mentor,” she said.
Parekh is also a professor in the Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology in the Department of Medicine at the UC Irvine School of Medicine. Her research interests include outcomes in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, clinical trials for new drug therapies to treat IBD, women’s issues and the role of ethnicity in disease outcomes. She also is actively involved in the training of GI fellows, residents and medical students.
Make an appointment with the IBD Program by calling 888-717-4463.
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UCI Health Chao Digestive Health Institute
