Shubha Kerkar

Shubha has been performing infectious disease consultation since 1991 and has the distinction of having been a part of DAP since 1993 when she joined us as a part-time infectious disease consultant. Her practice is primarily focused on inpatient or hospitalized patients at both Desert Regional Medical Center and Eisenhower Health where she cares for individuals with serious infectious diseases. Once these patients recover and leave the hospital they continue on their path to a healthier life by transitioning to Shubha's office-based skilled management program at DAP.

At DAP, she also evaluates, treats, and provides consultations in infectious diseases for patients referred from physicians throughout the community. In addition, she works with DAP's network of other services such as Social Services, Case Management, Substance Abuse Counseling, Mental Health, Community Outreach and Advocacy, and our pharmacy and laboratory services to provide a seamless, total care experience for patients.

In her early career at DAP, Shubha worked toward setting up a HIV/AIDS Health Center at Desert Regional Medical Center to care for DAP clients who needed hospitalization and hospice care. Her practice has evolved into skilled management of these clients, allowing them to lead healthy, productive lives. She is also involved with research into newer medicines such as those able to cure infections like Hepatitis C.

Shubha is Board Certified in Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine and has maintained certification and credentialing by the American Academy of HIV Medicine since 2012. In 2008, she became one of the founding members of the 100 Women Charitable Foundation which provides assistance to women and children living with HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Kerkar is an Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) Fellow, a recognition of and honor conferred upon those who have achieved professional excellence in the field of infectious diseases.

She has also volunteered at several organizations such as Guide Dogs of the Desert, the Braille Institute, and the Palm Springs Art Museum.

"Touch is the most important thing. When you touch somebody, I think it makes a difference. Touch and empathy are my mantra."