Accepting new patients
Deepa Ragesh Panikkath, MD
- Rheumatology
Average rating:
4.9
Star ratings are displayed only for those physicians who participate in UCLA Health’s patient experience survey program and have received a minimum of 30 survey responses.
San Luis Obispo Primary & Specialty Care
|
862 Aerovista Place, Suite 100
San Luis Obispo,
CA
93401
US
About
Dr Deepa Panikkath practices general adult rheumatology at San Luis Obispo and treats a wide spectrum of rheumatic diseases, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, vasculitis, myositis, scleroderma, gout, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.She earned her medical degree and trained in Dermatology from India prior to coming to the United States. She then pursued her residency in Internal Medicine at Texas Tech University, Lubbock followed by Rheumatology fellowship at Loma Linda University, California. Dr. Panikkath is board certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. In her spare time she enjoys gardening, watching movies,and hiking with her husband and children.
Languages
Education
Medical Board Certifications
Rheumatology, American Board of Internal Medicine, 2021
Internal Medicine, American Board of Internal Medicine, 2016
Fellowship
Rheumatology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, 2021
Residency
Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University School of Medicine, 2016
Degree
MBBS, Government Medical College, 2000
Locations
Central Coast
San Luis Obispo Primary & Specialty Care
San Luis Obispo Primary & Specialty Care
Endocrinology| Family Medicine| Rheumatology
+3 more specialties
Hospital Affiliations
Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center
Insurance
- Aetna
- Anthem Blue Cross
- Blue Shield of California
- Centivo
- Cigna
- First Health
- Health Net of California
- Interplan (part of HealthSmart)
- Medicare Advantage
- MultiPlan
- UFCM Health System
- Prime Health Services
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS)
- TRICARE
- UnitedHealthcare
The list of healthcare plans above may not be comprehensive and could change.
Please contact your benefits coordinator or health insurance company directly to verify coverage.
Visit our health insurance information page for more details.
Reviews
Overall rating:
4.9
Star ratings are displayed only for those physicians who participate in UCLA Health’s patient experience survey program and have received a minimum of 30 survey responses.
259 total ratings |
186 reviews
5.0
July 31, 2026
Appointment was quick and easy.
5.0
July 30, 2026
Dr explains everything and is very caring and kind
5.0
July 28, 2026
Dr is very caring and wise I appreciated all her time. And expertise Would recommend her to anyone Thanks
5.0
July 28, 2026
Dr. Pannikath provided great information about help with my diet to lose weight and reduce inflammation.
5.0
July 27, 2026
Dr Panikkath is one of the best doctors I have ever had (and I've had a lot all over the world). She truly cares about her patients, listens, and looks at the whole picture. I feel lucky to have found her.
5.0
July 23, 2026
Very informative and clear about current condition and next steps.
5.0
July 22, 2026
Dr. Panikkath listens and explains everything well.
5.0
July 22, 2026
She was very nice, knowledgeable . I felt as though she wants to get to the bottom of my symptoms, which I really appreciate.
5.0
July 21, 2026
Very understandable and professional, all questions that I had were answered
5.0
July 21, 2026
Very nice
5.0
July 20, 2026
I’m pleased, answered all questions and was clear about what to do.
5.0
July 17, 2026
Fast efficient, pleasant
5.0
July 17, 2026
The doctor treated me as if I was her highest priority. She explained everything throughout the examination.
4.0
July 16, 2026
Dr was very engaged and asked questions about my health. She explained the lab work that I had.
5.0
July 15, 2026
She explained everything that was going on and what’s needs to be done
5.0
July 15, 2026
I enjoyed speaking with my doctor, who took the time to assess me in a detailed manner and answer all of my questions. I feel there is a partnership in my health decisions.
5.0
July 13, 2026
She listens to understand . Kind, caring and down to earth. Dr. Pannikath has helped me get my life back , excellent rheumatologist . Grateful. Thank you
5.0
July 10, 2026
She listened to me, addressed all my concerns, and gave me a clear follow up plan.
5.0
July 10, 2026
Dr. Panikkath is always compassionate and professional. I appreciate her knowledge and recommendations so much. I feel taken care of.
5.0
July 9, 2026
Very helpful and caring.
5.0
July 8, 2026
The staff really made me feel good and reduced my anxiety, everything was timely, no-waiting around, good vibes. All in all great day
5.0
July 8, 2026
She was very thorough! She listened as I spoke and asked probing questions. I felt heard, and not judged.
5.0
July 2, 2026
The building, and office are beautiful. I felt listened to by the Dr, and staff. I didn���t feel rushed. All my questions were answered, and I felt taken care of.
5.0
June 30, 2026
Dr Pannegath is extremely helpful! I was just telling a friend about how compassionate, attentive, professional, and kind she is. I feel that her suggestions are always so thoughtful and supportive. I have had wonderful results by taking her medical advice!
5.0
June 30, 2026
Dr P is very thorough, patient and kind.
5.0
June 30, 2026
Dr Deepa is a great doctor and the staff is wonderful
5.0
June 26, 2026
She listened well and is very thorough and caring
5.0
June 25, 2026
I was pleased with the thoroughness of Dr. Panikkath. She took the time to ask me questions and send me for more lab work
5.0
June 25, 2026
She is very smart, polite, and care about her patients.
5.0
June 24, 2026
Patience, knowledge of Dr Panikkath is wonderful. I feel so cared for. Her attention to my case is complete.
5.0
June 23, 2026
Explained everything with detail and talked about other test I can get done to figure out the issue.
5.0
June 22, 2026
Dr. Panikkath is a very thorough doctor. She listens and endeavors to solve your issues with your input and her expertise. I always leave feeling like I've been heard and my issues have been addressed. I also appreciate the she always follows thorough with whatever the game plan is and follows up on my progress. Great doctor!
5.0
June 17, 2026
Dr Panikkath's care and concerns for her patients go beyond others
5.0
June 16, 2026
She explained all the tests results in an easy to understand way.
5.0
June 15, 2026
Dr. Panikkath is thorough and professional. Her help is appreciated.
5.0
June 11, 2026
Dr. Pannikath is always informative & I feel she gives me good feedback.
5.0
June 11, 2026
Dr. Panikkath is thorough and a compassionate listener. She addresses my needs and makes herself available to answer all questions.
5.0
June 8, 2026
Dr explained everything and treatments clearly where I understood . And took the time to explain it
5.0
June 4, 2026
Felt like she actually took the time, listened, asked questions and then at the end gave a great recap on next steps and asked if I had any questions
5.0
June 3, 2026
She's a great listener and problem solver
5.0
May 28, 2026
She is patient, thorough, kind, and listens well.
5.0
May 28, 2026
Quality questions. Quality, thoughtful, answers. Explained how treatment works with other specialists after she does the initial evaluation.
5.0
May 27, 2026
Great listener. Explains things well.
5.0
May 27, 2026
Dr P.Panikkath could not have been better! Thank you for your support and expertise in all aspects of my care
5.0
May 27, 2026
Timely, great staff, great nurses and ,wonderful doctor.
5.0
May 22, 2026
She has a serious but highly professional approach. She spent time collecting information pieces that were not part of the medical history but important for her evaluation. Very thorough
5.0
May 21, 2026
Positive
5.0
May 21, 2026
She listened and was very informative with my condition and next steps. She made it easy to understand.
5.0
May 19, 2026
Thorough and understanding. Explained the situation in an understandable manner.
5.0
May 14, 2026
She’s great!
5.0
May 11, 2026
She was so thorough and personable, I was very pleased. As I told her, she explained the considered procedure so reasonably I am confident in her care. She took thorough notes, along with the recording, and then provided me with websites to investigate on my own. She’s excellent.
5.0
May 9, 2026
She was professional, kind, attentive, personable, and asked questions to understand our issues.
5.0
May 8, 2026
She’s wonderful! Explains everything in a way that’s understandable. Answered all my questions. Over viewed all my labs and ex rays with me. Gave me options on the ways to treat my condition. Feel that I’m very blessed to have found aura great physician 😍
5.0
May 7, 2026
The Doctor always takes time for questions. It doesn't feel rushed.
5.0
May 7, 2026
Dr. Panikkath takes great care in reviewing my test results and advising next steps.
5.0
May 4, 2026
She was well-prepared to discuss recent test results and explain them.
5.0
May 4, 2026
Excellent service
5.0
May 1, 2026
Dr Pannikkath is a great listener and caring person. She is the best!!
5.0
April 29, 2026
She listens and honestly answers questions.
5.0
April 28, 2026
Very thorough
5.0
April 28, 2026
She talked me through the lab results. She explained things so well and alleviated my fears.
5.0
April 27, 2026
Quickly signed in. Saw the Dr. ANd quickly checked out.
5.0
April 27, 2026
My vis was vary nice . My doctor treat s me vary well . Doctor pranika . She vary respectful caring and understanding. And listen to me . I thank her and U C L A staff for youer up most of every thing you do and accomplish .
5.0
April 23, 2026
Very thorough and thoughtful appointment. Took plenty of time to explain things to me and to explore my situation.
5.0
April 23, 2026
Dr Panikkath listens, answers every questions and looks for solutions. She is kind, considerate and thorough.
5.0
April 22, 2026
Kind and thoughtful person
5.0
April 21, 2026
She is kind and professional
5.0
April 20, 2026
Dr. Panikkath is knowledgeable, compassionate, and thorough!
5.0
April 20, 2026
Excellent and thorough and kind.
5.0
April 14, 2026
Seemed prepared, knowledgable and thoughtful
5.0
April 14, 2026
She was very patient with me went over some labs. Had recommendations for my upcoming health needs and referrals. I was satisfied with my appointment everything that I would’ve liked to have been addressed was addressed
5.0
April 14, 2026
Dr. P was patient and looked at a lot of different areas. Answered all my questions and is scheduling a followup if the lad results dictate.
5.0
April 7, 2026
I had a great first exam. The doctor was so thorough and answered all my questions to better understand my condition and prescribed treatment. She was kind, patient and extremely knowledgeable. I felt empowered and informed leaving the exam.
5.0
April 3, 2026
First time with doctor, pleasant, thorough, excellent follow up. Highly recommend.
5.0
April 2, 2026
We discussed the results of an MRI and the next steps. The appointment was thorough.
5.0
March 31, 2026
All questions answered
5.0
March 30, 2026
Dr. Pannacath is so thorough.
5.0
March 18, 2026
Wonderful doctor!
5.0
March 16, 2026
Cheerful, relaxed and answered all my questions
5.0
March 13, 2026
The provider took her time providing care and made sure she thoroughly explained things and that I fully understood my treatment plan.
5.0
March 10, 2026
Dr. Panikkath addressed all my issues, and explained all my blood labs questions.
5.0
March 9, 2026
I like the doctor. She seems thorough and thoughtful. Thank you.
5.0
March 2, 2026
Excellent! Everything!
5.0
February 27, 2026
Dr Panikkath helped me through a very difficult condition and was very helpful and supportive. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a Rheumatologist.
5.0
February 27, 2026
Approachable, easy to talk to, Dr P listened to me as I responded to each of her questions.
5.0
February 26, 2026
Dr Panakath is thorough, competent and caring. She provides me a sense of confidence that we’re doing the best we can.
5.0
February 26, 2026
She listened and addressed my issues and questions.
5.0
February 25, 2026
Very thorough
5.0
February 25, 2026
She was knowledgeable and thorough.
5.0
February 25, 2026
She listened, was respectful, and genuinely wanted to help.
5.0
February 23, 2026
Dr Panikkath is the best!
5.0
February 20, 2026
Very nice and knowledgeable Patient and answered all my questions. Set up needed tests and gave vaccinations . Very thorough.. Refreshing experience.
5.0
February 12, 2026
She is very nice. Answered my questions.
5.0
February 12, 2026
I’m her new patient.. she listens to my on going pain and the discomfort I’ve been having.
5.0
February 11, 2026
Dr Panikkath is professional, thorough, and makes me feel welcome.
5.0
February 10, 2026
She is thorough, professional, kind, easy to talk to, really listens to me and is extremely knowledgeable.
5.0
February 6, 2026
Dr. Panikkath was very thorough and I was impressed with her insight and willingness to discuss expanded options and further testing with me. I am happy my primary doctor referred me to Dr. Panikkath.
5.0
February 3, 2026
Very good visit. Im happy with my care.
5.0
February 3, 2026
Competent and professional.,
5.0
January 30, 2026
The doctor really listens to concerns and continues to try and investigate possible problems.
5.0
January 28, 2026
Dr Pannikath was very thorough, listened to my concerns, asked the right questions & was extremely personable! I'm very happy that I'm here patient!
5.0
January 27, 2026
excellent
5.0
January 27, 2026
It went very well
5.0
January 23, 2026
She asked me if I had questions. She’s ordered additional tests because of my condition. I feel she is very knowledgeable and understand my anxiety.
5.0
January 22, 2026
It was excellent as expected from front desk to madical assistant to the docror
5.0
January 21, 2026
She was so knowledgeable and thought of a possible diagnosis that nobody before her ever did. She was kind and a great listener. She even has a sense of humor.
5.0
January 21, 2026
Thorough and explained everything very well.
5.0
January 20, 2026
I really like her. She explains things clearly & is very caring & also listened.
5.0
January 20, 2026
Efficient and professional! :-)
5.0
January 20, 2026
Finally got questions answered
5.0
January 17, 2026
Dr. Panikkath is the best. Her compassion and dedication to her patients is outstanding.
5.0
January 16, 2026
Thorough and helpful communication.
5.0
January 16, 2026
She was very positive and engaging with me.
5.0
January 15, 2026
Deepa is excellent service provider for us
5.0
January 11, 2026
Great atmosphere and she kept the visit simple
5.0
January 8, 2026
It was excellent
5.0
January 7, 2026
She is kind, caring, respectful, listens well.
5.0
January 6, 2026
It was great. Informative, She’s a great doctor.
5.0
January 5, 2026
Very pleasant experience reviewed medical history medication’s made suggestions in adjustments, is following up on getting prescription order through a third-party. Pharmacy is always complicated but she does her best to try to accommodate it as easily as possible.
5.0
December 18, 2025
Very good Dr
5.0
December 17, 2025
Best Dr. ever! Wish she also did primary care. She is thorough, patient, kind, makes sure you understand all, She is truly interested in your over all health. She takes time to listen to all concerns & questions i’ve never had a Dr., this good & truly invested in my over all health. She’s the best!
5.0
December 16, 2025
The doctor was organized and clear with her treatment plan.
5.0
December 15, 2025
My first visit with Dr. Panikkath. She is very professional. Asked all the right questions. I feel confident she's will be able to help me.
5.0
December 14, 2025
I am very satisfied
5.0
December 13, 2025
She was easy to talk with and made me feel comfortable
5.0
December 8, 2025
Dr Panikkath is a very gifted and highly skilled specialist. She is warm, competent and very focused. I am grateful to have her as my doctor guiding me through my autoimmune issues. When I have had issues outside her specialty, Dr Panikkath has successfully referred me to the appropriate doctors in the UCLA network.
5.0
December 7, 2025
She was caring and kind. Looking forward to being her patient. Gave me hope.
5.0
December 6, 2025
Very thorough and patient. Didn’t feel rushed. listened to every thing I wanted to share.
5.0
December 4, 2025
Saw the doctor for first time and was very impressed with her.
5.0
December 1, 2025
Conversation was great. Nothing to say negative at all.
5.0
December 1, 2025
Very thorough
5.0
November 26, 2025
Very thorough about my medical history and current situation
5.0
November 22, 2025
She gave me all the information I needed about my recent Dexascan. She answered all my questions and concerns. She’s a very caring Physician.
5.0
November 20, 2025
My doctor listened to me and I appreciate that. Very professional and she explained my condition and concerns. Thank you.
5.0
November 19, 2025
She is attentive, helpful and kind.
5.0
November 19, 2025
Very helpful, she listened to me and explained how i should do what i needed to help take care.
5.0
November 19, 2025
She is kind, knowledgeable, patient, and dedicated.
5.0
November 17, 2025
Doctor was very caring and understanding of the issues that I was seeing her for. She had an excellent plan to figure out what could be going on with me and I felt validated with bringing my issues with her. I would definitely recommend her to anyone that needs her expertise.
5.0
November 15, 2025
Very thoughtful and thorough
5.0
November 14, 2025
She listened to my concerns and explained treatment options well.
5.0
November 14, 2025
Dr. Panikkath was very thorough in explaining test results, and made sure I understood them and didn't have further questions.
5.0
November 13, 2025
Very thoughtful and thorough
5.0
November 10, 2025
Dr. Panikkath is very thorough and knowledgeable. She explains things well and is always friendly and professional.
5.0
November 6, 2025
Kind, listens well, answers my questions, provides easy to understand action plan and follow-up
5.0
November 5, 2025
As always Dr Panikkath took the time to listen and explain meds options, side effects etc
4.0
November 4, 2025
Good she’s very professional. She take care of her patience. She listens and she give you answers.
5.0
November 3, 2025
Took her time and was very thorough all. Really cared. Staff very friendly and helpful.
5.0
October 31, 2025
Dr Panikkath listened to my health issues. We’re trying to get my medications covered so my pain level goes down. She is always very responsive.
5.0
October 30, 2025
Very informative and helpful
5.0
October 30, 2025
Prompt, professional, and knowledgeable.
5.0
October 29, 2025
She is kind and patient. Very thoroughly answers all questions. She is very approachable and really makes me feel that she "sees" me as a person.
5.0
October 26, 2025
Saw rheumatologist for a second opinion. She was very thorough listening to my symptoms and considering if my diagnosis has been correct
5.0
October 24, 2025
Very happy with how thorough Dr. Panikkath was in documenting my condition.
5.0
October 23, 2025
She was very careful to check and explain everything to me in a personal and professional manner. I truly appreciate her and her ability. I am fortunate to have her as my Dr.
5.0
October 23, 2025
Dr. Panikkath is simply outstanding!
5.0
October 22, 2025
She explained and allayed my fears about a procedure I’m scheduled for.
5.0
October 20, 2025
Doctor Panikkath is calm and steady. And she speaks clearly, confidently, and with compassion. We really like her is his doctor!
5.0
October 20, 2025
Timely Provided me the next steps in my treatment, gave me good information. I feel confident in her assessments of my condition. Office staff really helpful and kind
5.0
October 17, 2025
Doctor was impressive, very thorough and very smart
5.0
October 17, 2025
Pleasant. As always attentive and helpful
5.0
October 16, 2025
Dr. Panikkath was professional and thorough.
5.0
October 16, 2025
Dr. P was very thorough and good at explaining next steps.
5.0
October 13, 2025
She is kind, she listens well, she cares.
5.0
October 10, 2025
It was good she listened to what i had to say. Showed understanding of my problem and wants to gather as much info as possible before moving ahead with treatment. I appreciate and like her
5.0
October 10, 2025
She was very patient and understanding. Really wants to help.
5.0
October 9, 2025
Dr. Panikkath is always professional and compassionate. She listens and is always thorough.
5.0
October 8, 2025
She always listens and is always familiar with where we left off. I feel very comfortable with her and happy with her care.
5.0
October 8, 2025
She is very professional. I liked her and everything went well.
5.0
October 6, 2025
Knowable and takes the time to answer questions.
5.0
October 3, 2025
Thoughtful, thorough, listened and was kind
5.0
October 3, 2025
Reviewed labs and discussed options for severe osteoporosis treatments
5.0
October 2, 2025
She really listened
5.0
September 30, 2025
Dr. Is very attentive a very good listener and addresses all your needs. She always clarifies at the end of the visit. What needs to be done if any new prescriptions will be prescribed or labs and when they need to be done. Then she asks if you have any questions I love that about her
5.0
September 30, 2025
I love my doctor she understands me and my needs
5.0
September 24, 2025
Excellent
5.0
September 23, 2025
I love that I never feel rushed when speaking with my Doctor.
5.0
September 22, 2025
Excellent
5.0
September 17, 2025
She took the time to hear my questions and address them all. Explained to me what I needed to know to pursue appropriate health care in the future. Requested one more blood test to determine if I have need of the types of services she provides. Was patient, respectful, informative, and professional.
5.0
September 17, 2025
She answered my questions and made appropriate referrals.
5.0
September 17, 2025
Dr Panikkath is great. The office staff is great. The facility is clean. Very organized and thorough. I’m so glad UCLA Health has come to San Luis Obispo County.
5.0
September 17, 2025
Good listener and made good recommendations
5.0
September 16, 2025
Dr Pannikath is smart and kind- the very best of traits one can hope for in their doctor.
5.0
September 15, 2025
She listens! She is helpful!
5.0
September 15, 2025
She listened and is actively working on figuring out my situation.
5.0
September 15, 2025
Excellent!
5.0
September 15, 2025
Thorough