About
Dr. Dave Chen brings an unusually rigorous scientific background to internal medicine. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics at the University of Chicago before completing a Master of Science at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He then earned his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine through his internship and residency at UCLA Medical Center.
Dr. Chen has held board certification in internal medicine since 2002. He began his career as an internist at Kaiser Permanente Medical Group, eventually earning partnership there. After relocating to Maryland, he joined Potomac Physician Associates and spent 15 years building his patient relationships in the Bethesda area. He treats a broad range of adult conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lung disease, sleep disorders, and chronic respiratory illnesses. Washingtonian Magazine named him a Top Doctor in 2010, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021. Bethesda Magazine recognized him in 2019 and 2021, and Castle Connolly named him a Top Doctor in 2021. Patients describe relationships spanning more than 12 years and credit him with attentive listening and sharp clinical judgment.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
University of Chicago, B.S. Physics; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, M.S.
Medical School
New York University School of Medicine
Residency
Internal Medicine, UCLA Medical Center
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Chen right for?
Dr. Chen is a strong fit for adults who want a physician who listens carefully and engages them in their own care decisions. Patients managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease benefit from his focused, preventive approach. He works well with patients who value long-term relationships and consistent access to their doctor. Adults who want thorough annual physicals and personalized wellness planning will find his model well-suited to those goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Chen treats a wide range of adult conditions. His areas of focus include diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, joint conditions, lung disease, respiratory illnesses, sleep disorders, and sinus infections. He also manages chronic illnesses and serves as a central point of coordination for patients who need specialist referrals.
Yes. Dr. Chen has held board certification in internal medicine since 2002. He completed his residency training in internal medicine at UCLA Medical Center and earned his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine.
Dr. Chen earned his undergraduate degree in physics at the University of Chicago and his master's degree at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He received his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine and completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at UCLA Medical Center.
Dr. Chen has practiced in the Bethesda area for over 15 years.
Dr. Chen believes good doctoring starts with listening. He focuses on understanding each patient's full situation, reviewing their options together, and helping them take an active role in their own care. His approach prioritizes prevention and proactive management over reactive treatment.
Yes. Washingtonian Magazine named Dr. Chen a Top Doctor in 2010, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021. Bethesda Magazine recognized him as a Top Doctor in 2019 and 2021. Castle Connolly also named him a Top Doctor in 2021.
Most visits with Dr. Chen run 30 to 45 minutes. Physical examinations can extend up to 90 minutes. That time allows for thorough discussion of health concerns, test results, and wellness goals.
Dr. Chen takes a proactive, preventive approach to care. While he manages chronic conditions and acute concerns, he focuses heavily on early identification and prevention. He designs personalized wellness programs for each patient and monitors progress over time.
Doctor profile last updated April 10, 2026