About
D. is a Family Medicine physician with training that spans public health, traditional Chinese medicine, and clinical primary care. He earned a Master of Public Health from Columbia University in 1997, then his medical degree from New York University in 2001. He completed his Family Medicine residency at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, California.
Dr. Tsai pursued acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine training at the East-West Center at UCLA and the Academy of Pain Research, integrating those skills into his practice alongside conventional medicine. A Los Angeles native now living in Irvine, he approaches each patient visit as a genuine conversation. He listens to his patients' stories in a relaxed, unhurried way and keeps pace with developments in nutrition, natural healing, and healthcare technology. He is the father of two daughters, and outside the office he surfs, snowboards, cooks, plays guitar, and explores the world through travel and photography.
Education & Training
Medical School
New York University, NYC, 2001
Residency
Family Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, 2004
Additional Training
Master's Public Health, Columbia University, NYC, 1997; Acupuncture/TCM: East-West Center UCLA 2003, Academy of Pain Research 2010
Certifications
Languages
English
Who is Dr. Tsai right for?
Dr. Tsai is a good fit for patients who want a family medicine physician with a natural and integrative lens. Adults seeking acupuncture alongside primary care will benefit from his dual training. Patients who value a relaxed, conversational style and direct physician access will appreciate his approach. He works well with individuals and families looking for a long-term primary care partner.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Tsai specializes in Family Medicine and brings additional training in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. He takes a natural-first approach to treatment, looking for the least invasive option before turning to conventional therapies.
Yes. Dr. Tsai trained in acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine at the East-West Center at UCLA and through the Academy of Pain Research. He incorporates these skills into his primary care practice.
Yes. Dr. Tsai holds board certification in Family Medicine from 2004 through 2024.
Dr. Tsai earned his medical degree from New York University in 2001 and completed his Family Medicine residency at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in 2004. He also holds a Master of Public Health from Columbia University.
Dr. Tsai takes a relaxed, mindful approach to each visit. He listens carefully to patients' stories and takes the time to understand their lives before making recommendations. He also stays current with nutrition science, natural healing methods, and new developments in healthcare technology.
Yes. As a Family Medicine physician, Dr. Tsai cares for patients across all age groups. His training and integrative approach make him a flexible fit for a wide range of family health needs.
Members at Portola Direct Primary Care can reach Dr. Tsai by phone, text, email, or through Spruce, the practice's secure messaging platform. Patients have noted his responsiveness even outside of standard office hours.
Doctor profile last updated April 11, 2026