Melvin A. Gonzalez, MD

Melvin Gonzalez, MD, is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Nuclear Cardiology. After receiving a degree in Biology from the University of California, Davis, Dr. Gonzalez attended Harvard Medical School. Upon receiving his medical degree he completed internship and residency programs at Hospital of University of Pennsylvania, and then completed a fellowship program in cardiology at UCLA Medical Center.

“I always did well in sciences and intended to become a veterinarian and started UC Davis with that in mind,” states Dr. Gonzalez. “After a few classes, I realized that veterinary school was not for me and changed direction toward becoming a medical doctor.” While in medical school Dr. Gonzalez decided to pursue internal medicine – as that would afford a career in problem solving and establishing relationships with patients. He, however, was also drawn to the specialties of emergency medicine and cardiology. After finishing his residency in internal medicine, Dr. Gonzalez directed an emergency room for a year to determine if he wanted to spend his career in that arena. “After a year in the emergency room, I found I was not intellectually challenged as my time with patients was shorter-term. I decided then to pursue cardiology as it would allow me to establish long-term relationships with patients,” continues Dr. Gonzalez.

Dr. Gonzalez and his staff approach patient care as if they were caring for their own loved ones. “We have a family-oriented office; all of my office staff has been with me over 10 years and we know our patients when they call,” states Dr. Gonzalez. “We are diligent in communicating with patients and calling them with test results.”

Procedures Dr. Gonzalez performs include coronary angiograms, stents, pacemakers as well as other non-invasive procedures.

Dr. Gonzalez has a picture of a young boy in his cell phone, reminding him why he is a cardiologist. “Over ten years ago, I put a stent in a man and the next year he fathered the boy. I now get a Christmas card each year from the boy thanking me for saving his dad’s life. This story gives me perspective."

When not in the office, Dr. Gonzalez plays golf and hikes in the local mountains. He volunteers regularly and travels with IMAHelps – a medical mission serving the impoverished in Central America.