About
Dr. Louisa Whitesides holds dual board certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine, bringing specialized depth to the care of adults at every life stage. A native Washingtonian and graduate of The Potomac School, she earned her undergraduate degree from Davidson College and her medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine. She completed her Internal Medicine residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and pursued fellowship training in Geriatric Medicine at George Washington University.
After her fellowship, Dr. Whitesides joined the faculty at GW as an Assistant Professor, where she directed the Internal Medicine Residency Program's educational curriculum and ethics training. Her research addresses health systems quality and informed consent in clinical trials. Clinically, she focuses on cognitive decline, polypharmacy, chronic illness, and the transitions of late life. She earned Top Doctor recognition in 2025. Outside the office, she enjoys reading, running, and yoga. She lives in Chevy Chase, MD with her husband and three sons.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
Davidson College
Medical School
Emory University School of Medicine
Residency
Internal Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
Fellowship
Geriatric Medicine, George Washington University
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Whitesides right for?
Dr. Whitesides is particularly well-suited for older adults and patients managing complex, chronic conditions. Those dealing with cognitive decline, polypharmacy, or major life-stage transitions benefit from her geriatric fellowship training. Patients who need a physician with both clinical depth and patience for nuanced decision-making will appreciate her approach. Family members involved in a loved one's care also find her a thoughtful and reliable partner.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Whitesides specializes in geriatric medicine and evidence-based primary care. Her clinical focus includes cognitive decline, polypharmacy, chronic illness, and the health transitions that accompany later stages of life.
Yes. Dr. Whitesides holds board certifications in both Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. This dual certification reflects her dedicated expertise in caring for older and medically complex adults.
Dr. Whitesides earned her medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine and completed her Internal Medicine residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. She then completed a Geriatric Medicine fellowship at George Washington University.
Yes. Cognitive decline is a primary focus of Dr. Whitesides' clinical practice. Her geriatric fellowship and years of clinical experience give her specific tools to help patients and families navigate cognitive health changes.
Yes. Dr. Whitesides practices evidence-based primary care for adults of all ages. While she has deep expertise in geriatric medicine, she brings the same thoroughness and continuity to patients across the adult lifespan.
Dr. Whitesides served as an Assistant Professor at George Washington University, where she directed the Internal Medicine Residency Program's educational curriculum and ethics training. Her research focuses on health systems quality and informed consent in clinical trials.
Dr. Whitesides believes primary care means listening to the whole person and honoring what matters most at each stage of life. She builds trust through continuity, clarity, and compassion, and she walks alongside patients and families through complex decisions.
Doctor profile last updated April 27, 2026