Dr. Esther CostelMD
Internal Medicine
at Esther E. Costel, MD - Concierge Internal Medicine — Louisville, KY
About
Dr. Esther Costel grew up in Louisville and built a career that took her across some of medicine's most rigorous training programs before bringing her back home. She graduated magna cum laude from Princeton University and earned her medical degree at Duke University School of Medicine. She then completed both a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University. Additional training at the University of Louisville and Cardiff University further broadened her clinical foundation. She holds board certification in internal medicine and voluntarily recertifies every 10 years.
Early in her career, Dr. Costel volunteered at the Hospital Albert Schweitzer in Haiti before returning to Louisville to practice. She continues to give back through volunteer work at the Family Community Clinic at St. Joseph's Catholic Church and at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She is a member of the American College of Physicians, the Greater Louisville Medical Association, and the Kentucky Medical Association. Louisville has recognized her as a Top Doc in internal medicine on multiple occasions. Her clinical interests span diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep disorders, lung disease, joint conditions, depression, anxiety, migraines, and digestive conditions including diverticulosis.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
Princeton University (magna cum laude)
Medical School
Duke University School of Medicine
Residency
Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University
Fellowship
Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University
Additional Training
University of Louisville; Cardiff University
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Costel right for?
Dr. Costel is a strong fit for adults seeking a primary care physician who takes a thorough, preventive approach. Patients managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or high cholesterol benefit from her broad internal medicine expertise. She works well with patients who want a physician who coordinates closely with their specialists. Adults dealing with sleep disorders, migraines, depression, or anxiety also find her practice a good home. Her small panel size means she has meaningful time available for every patient she sees.
Similar Doctors Nearby
Dr. Sarah Merrick
Dr. Michael LovelaceMD, MBA
diabetes, hypertension, anxiety +4 more
Dr. Michael LovelaceMD, MBA
depression, anxiety, diabetes +4 more
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Costel treats a wide range of adult conditions through her internal medicine practice. Her areas of focus include diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lung disease, joint conditions, and sleep disorders. She also manages depression, anxiety, migraines, diverticulosis, and weight concerns. Patients with complex or multi-system health histories find her breadth of knowledge especially useful.
Yes, Dr. Costel holds board certification in internal medicine. She voluntarily recertifies every 10 years, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to staying current in her specialty. This recertification goes beyond standard requirements and reflects her investment in clinical excellence.
Dr. Costel earned her undergraduate degree magna cum laude from Princeton University and her medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine. She completed her internal medicine residency and infectious diseases fellowship at Vanderbilt University. She pursued additional training at the University of Louisville and Cardiff University.
Yes, Dr. Costel actively collaborates with specialists when her patients need additional expertise. She serves as the primary point of contact for her members' overall care and stays closely involved in monitoring outcomes across providers. Patients with complex conditions consistently highlight this coordination as a strength of her practice.
Dr. Costel centers her practice on prevention rather than reactive treatment. She focuses on identifying health risks early and building personalized wellness plans for each member. She regularly monitors patient results and uses a health risk assessment to guide proactive care decisions.
Yes, Dr. Costel has earned Louisville Top Doc recognition in internal medicine multiple times. This recognition reflects the trust and satisfaction of her patients and peers in the Louisville medical community.
Yes, Dr. Costel completed a fellowship in infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University. That training gives her a deeper clinical perspective, particularly when managing patients with complex or overlapping conditions.
Yes, Dr. Costel's practice currently accepts new patients. 1121 or submit an inquiry online to learn more or schedule a consultation.
Doctor profile last updated April 10, 2026