About
Merritt W. Dunlap, MD has practiced family medicine in Carson City for more than two decades. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Nevada, Reno in 1987. He went on to complete his Doctorate of Medicine at the University of Nevada School of Medicine in 1993. He completed both his internship and residency in Family Practice at Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, California.
Dr. Dunlap holds board certification from the American Board of Family Medicine and serves as a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice. He has served as Affiliate Clinical Faculty in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Nevada School of Medicine since 2000. Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center recognized him as Doctor of the Year in 2007. Carson City voters named him Best Doctor four separate times, and he earned the Patient's Choice Award and Compassionate Doctor Recognition Award multiple times as well. He is passionate about helping patients manage chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. Outside medicine, Dr. Dunlap enjoys fly fishing, camping, skiing, golf, and cooking.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
University of Nevada, Reno, NV - Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry 1987
Medical School
University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV - Doctorate of Medicine 1993
Residency
Family Practice, Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, CA 1994-1996
Additional Training
Internship: Family Practice, Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, CA 1993-1994
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Dunlap right for?
Dr. Dunlap is a strong fit for adults seeking a long-term primary care relationship with a preventive focus. Patients managing chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension benefit from his proactive approach. He works well with patients who want a personalized wellness plan built around their specific goals. His practice suits people who value direct physician access and same-day availability for urgent concerns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Dunlap focuses on family medicine and preventive care. He has particular expertise in managing chronic conditions including type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. He also uses advanced diagnostics and screenings to identify health risks early and build a tailored wellness plan for each patient.
Dr. Dunlap uses advanced diagnostics and preventive screenings to catch risks before they escalate. He takes time to understand each patient's personal health goals, then builds a customized plan around those goals. His philosophy holds that prevention and timely intervention are central to long-term health and longevity.
Yes. Dr. Dunlap holds board certification from the American Board of Family Medicine. He also holds the Diplomate designation from the American Board of Family Practice. He has maintained these credentials throughout his career in Carson City.
Dr. Dunlap earned his medical degree from the University of Nevada School of Medicine in 1993. He completed his internship and residency in Family Practice at Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, California, finishing his residency in 1996.
Dr. Dunlap has received consistent recognition over his career. Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center named him Doctor of the Year in 2007. Carson City voters selected him as Best Doctor in 2003, 2010, 2011, and 2012. He also earned the Compassionate Doctor Recognition Award and the Patient's Choice Award multiple times.
Yes. Dr. Dunlap has served as Affiliate Clinical Faculty in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Nevada School of Medicine since 2000. This ongoing role reflects his commitment to advancing family medicine education in Nevada.
Yes. Dr. Dunlap is reachable by phone after hours and on weekends. Members can contact him directly for urgent matters outside of his Monday through Friday office schedule. This 24/7 access is a core feature of his MDVIP-affiliated practice.
Dr. Dunlap holds affiliations with Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center and Sierra Surgical Hospital, both in the Carson City area. He previously served as Chairman of the Department of Family Medicine and Pediatrics at Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center and sat on the Board of Directors at Sierra Surgical Hospital.
Doctor profile last updated June 6, 2026