Dr. Carrie CardenasMD

Internal Medicine

at Cardenas Internal Medicine — San Diego, CA

About

Dr. Carrie Cardenas grew up in San Diego and earned her undergraduate degree from San Diego State University, graduating summa cum laude. She went on to earn her medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco. Her residency in Internal Medicine took place at Stanford University, where she was appointed Chief Resident.

Dr. Cardenas holds board certification in Internal Medicine and has practiced in San Diego since 2003. She previously served on the Sharp Extended Care team, earning a Pillar of Excellence Award for Quality in 2015. San Diego Magazine named her a Top Doctor in 2009, 2011, and 2019. Her clinical approach centers on the personal side of medicine. She loves hearing her patients' life stories and engaging with the challenges they face beyond any single diagnosis. Outside medicine, Dr. Cardenas fosters puppies for a local rescue organization and enjoys gardening, reading, and outdoor time with her husband Dr. Hector and their two teenage sons.

Education & Training

Undergraduate

San Diego State University, summa cum laude

Medical School

University of California, San Francisco

Residency

Internal Medicine, Stanford University (also served as Chief Resident)

Certifications

Board Certified in Internal Medicine

Languages

English

Who is Dr. Cardenas right for?

Dr. Carrie Cardenas is a strong fit for adults who want a physician deeply invested in their full picture of health. Patients managing chronic conditions alongside lifestyle goals benefit from her preventive and holistic approach. She works well with people who value unhurried appointments and direct physician access. Those seeking a detail-oriented doctor who actively engages in their long-term wellness planning will find her approach a natural match.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Carrie Cardenas specializes in Internal Medicine and Preventive Medicine. Her clinical focus includes chronic disease management, weight management, fitness assessment, emotional well-being, and comprehensive annual health assessments. She takes a whole-person approach, addressing medical concerns alongside each patient's lifestyle and personal goals.

Yes, Dr. Carrie Cardenas holds board certification in Internal Medicine. She earned her medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco and completed her Internal Medicine residency at Stanford University, where she served as Chief Resident.

Dr. Carrie Cardenas completed her medical degree at the University of California, San Francisco. She then trained in Internal Medicine at Stanford University, where she was appointed Chief Resident. She has practiced Internal Medicine in San Diego since 2003.

San Diego Magazine, in partnership with the San Diego County Medical Society, named Dr. Carrie Cardenas a Top Doctor in 2009, 2011, and 2019. She also received the Pillar of Excellence Award for Quality in 2015 during her time on the Sharp Extended Care team.

Dr. Carrie Cardenas believes in restoring the traditional doctor-patient relationship, supported by modern technology. She treats every visit as a partnership, taking time to understand each patient's life story and health goals. She actively encourages patients to take control of their own health decisions.

Yes. Members reach Dr. Carrie Cardenas directly by personal cell phone, text, or email for urgent and after-hours concerns. The practice maintains 24/7 physician availability, with a trusted colleague covering when either doctor is unavailable.

Dr. Carrie Cardenas sees adult patients across a broad range of primary care and preventive health needs. She works with patients managing chronic conditions, those focused on preventive wellness, and individuals seeking a long-term physician relationship built on trust and direct communication.

Doctor profile last updated June 9, 2026