If listening to Beyonce and playing table tennis aren’t two things you associate with a doctor of internal medicine, you probably haven’t met Nripen Dontineni, M.D. The internist has been with Hackensack Meridian Health since April 2020, and he has been using his preventive approach to medicine to help patients live longer, healthier lives.

Born in India, Dr. Dontineni came to the U.S. for the first time to start his residency in New York. He has earned the distinction of Civil Surgeon from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which allows him to perform the medical exams required for Green Card applicants. Having gone through the immigration process himself, he chose to pursue the Civil Surgeon certification to help other immigrants on their own journeys.

As an internist, Dr. Dontineni treats a wide range of medical conditions. Internal medicine involves diagnosing, treating and preventing disease in adults, and an internist is a type of primary care provider for patients 18 years and older. Dr. Dontineni prefers, however, to prioritize prevention.

Why did you choose a career in medicine?

My father was a physician in India. I grew up seeing him and the satisfaction he got from treating patients. Internal medicine is broad, so I can treat multiple problems. I had some interest in cardiology, but I think my heart has always been in internal medicine.

What is your best advice to patients to live a healthy life?

I tell my patients that prevention is better than a cure. I encourage them to practice prevention with healthy lifestyles. Calorie control is the first thing I advise for patients. Boiled vegetables with some dipping sauce for flavor are my go-to healthy snacks. I also believe we should keep aside 30–40 minutes per day for exercise. Brisk walking is my favorite exercise.

What do you like to do when you are not working?

I love spending time with my wife and two children, especially traveling. My favorite family vacation was in Hawaii on a "road trip to Hana" on the Island of Maui . I also like to play badminton, tennis and table tennis with my kids. Winning is easy with them! As an internal medicine specialist, I also like to listen to podcasts. My favorite is Harrison’s PodClass.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Nripen Dontineni, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Dr. Dontineni or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website. 

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.