Interventional and structural cardiologist Dr. Jai Parekh joins Methodist staff

An accomplished chess player, Jai Parekh, MD, dreamed of becoming a grand master as he was growing up. But during high school, he felt his love for science and physiology pulling him in another direction.

“That’s when I decided, I can love chess, but I also love medicine,” he said. “I really felt like I could make a bigger impact through medicine and helping people.”

Dr. Parekh specializes in interventional and structural cardiology at Methodist Physicians Clinic. He’s skilled in performing stent procedures for patients with coronary artery disease, and he also performs minimally invasive valve replacement and repair procedures – among them transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), MitraClip and tricuspid clip. Additionally, he performs patent foramen ovale (PFO) closures to treat abnormal holes in the heart, as well as left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedures for patients with atrial fibrillation.

“The ability to perform minimally invasive procedures that significantly and almost immediately impact patients’ health and well-being is incredibly satisfying,” he said. “It’s a real privilege to do what we do.”

Dr. Parekh wants his patients to know that he’s serious about earning their trust and that he’ll treat each of them like a family member. He also believes they’re in the best place they can be to pursue their health goals.

“Methodist is at the forefront of cardiovascular care,” he said. “We have access to cutting-edge procedures, a fantastic support system and, most importantly, an exceptionally talented team that’s dedicated to serving the community.”

Outside of work, Dr. Parekh still enters online chess tournaments. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and family; playing basketball, soccer and ping-pong; traveling; and exploring new restaurants.