Dr. Carolyn Kaloostian focuses on the entire patient
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Carolyn Kaloostian/Submitted photo
Dr. Carolyn Kaloostian has met amazing families in the nine years she has been practicing in Pasadena.
Her patients think the same about her, judging from online reviews. But for Kaloostian, it’s all in a day’s work.
“They definitely show up and say, ‘We found you!’” she says. “That’s so great to hear. It makes me feel good, but it doesn’t make a big difference in how I practice. I love what I do.”
Kaloostian is a provider in Keck Signature Care, a concierge medicine program of Keck Medicine of USC. She is also a researcher and professor in the Keck School of Medicine. Keck Signature Care has limited enrollment, so physicians like Kaloostian are there when you need them and have ample time to develop a strong relationship with you. When enrolled, you and your family have easy and reliable access to your doctor, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Previously, her panel had more than 1,000 patients and she had a vested interest in each one, wanting to “selfishly” — as she says — see everyone.
“All I was hearing was, ‘I couldn’t see you when I was sick,’” she says.
“Though there is an out-of-pocket membership fee, Keck Signature Care is one of the most affordable academic concierge programs in the area. Care can even be provided in the home, where I can sit with the family and caregivers, and review medications in person. For nine years, I could not do that. There was not a way to fit that in with the traditional infrastructure of care.”
A graduate of UCLA Medical School, Kaloostian specializes in geriatric and family medicine. Having both under her belt has been beneficial to her care.
“Had I just been a family doctor, I wouldn’t have developed the skill set that I have,” she says. “I am conscious of every medication that’s prescribed and their side effects. I know not to send three new medications to the pharmacy. Let’s do one at a time and see how it goes.”
She prides herself in treating patients with respect, dignity and an open mind. She offers evidence-based medical recommendations and weighs the risks and benefits with her patients before making decisions.
Kaloostian understands that patients have different preferences when it comes to treating various diagnoses.
“Your health is not only physical, but spiritual and psychological as well,” she says.
Kaloostian learned early the importance of service and care, and that keeps her passionate about her career.
“My mother was a family doctor. My dad and brothers are all physicians,” she says. “My goal wasn’t to do concierge medicine. However, it has provided an opportunity for me to get to know my patients on a deeper level and in turn deliver prompt personalized care. That’s why I went into medicine.”
Dr. Carolyn Kaloostian, MPH, FAAFP
Assistant director, Keck Signature Care – Concierge Medicine
For enrollment inquiries: 323-865-8178