Dr. Shaila Pai-VermaMD
Internal Medicine
at Ideal Health Chicago — Chicago, IL
About
Dr. Shaila Pai-Verma began her medical career in 1996 as an internal medicine resident at Pennsylvania Hospital, part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. After completing her training, she moved to Chicago in 2000 and joined Gunnar Medical Group, a hospital-based suburban practice. During her time there, she earned certificates of recognition for resident teaching from the Stritch School of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago in both 2005 and 2006. She holds board certification in internal medicine and the American College of Physicians inducted her as a Fellow in 2015.
In 2009, Dr. Pai-Verma joined Rush University Medical Center as clinical faculty. She served as medical director of Internal Medicine at Rush until 2019 and maintains active medical staff privileges there. She founded Ideal Health Chicago to practice primary care on her own terms, building long-term health plans tailored to each patient's full life context. Her approach draws on USPSTF guidelines and pairs evidence-based disease management with integrative options when appropriate. Outside of medicine, she serves on the board of Commit2Change, an organization that supports education for orphaned girls in India. She lives in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood with her husband, three sons, and their dog Hamilton.
Education & Training
Residency
Internal Medicine, Pennsylvania Hospital/University of Pennsylvania Health System (began 1996)
Additional Training
Clinical faculty and Medical Director of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center (2009–2019); Certificate of recognition for resident teaching program, Stritch School of Medicine at Loyola University, 2005 and 2006
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Pai-Verma right for?
Dr. Pai-Verma is a strong match for adults who want a long-term relationship with a single, highly credentialed physician. Patients managing chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome benefit from her individualized care planning. She serves patients with cardiovascular risk who want advanced diagnostics beyond standard screenings. Her experience with postpartum depression and anxiety makes her a good fit for new mothers seeking an internist who treats the whole picture. Patients prioritizing longevity, cancer screening, and preventive health find her clinical focus directly aligned with their goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Pai-Verma treats a broad range of adult conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disorders, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease. She also manages preventive care, weight management, and cancer screening. Her clinical scope includes acute illness as well as complex chronic disease management.
Yes, Dr. Pai-Verma holds board certification in Internal Medicine. The American College of Physicians inducted her as a Fellow in 2015, a distinction that reflects sustained clinical achievement and commitment to the field.
Dr. Pai-Verma completed her Internal Medicine residency at Pennsylvania Hospital, part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, in 1996. She later joined Rush University Medical Center as clinical faculty in 2009 and served as medical director of Internal Medicine there through 2019.
Dr. Pai-Verma grounds her preventive care in USPSTF evidence-based guidelines. She offers advanced diagnostics including the Galleri Multicancer Early Detection Test, cardiovascular evaluations, and genetic testing for cancer and Alzheimer's risk. She also incorporates integrative options, such as acupuncture referrals, when clinically appropriate.
Dr. Pai-Verma guarantees same-day or next-day appointments for acute issues. Members can reach her directly by phone, email, or text. She also offers telemedicine through the Atlas MD application and house calls when patients need them.
Dr. Pai-Verma schedules annual and new patient visits for a full 60 minutes. That time allows her to review a patient's complete health history, address current concerns, and build a personalized long-term health plan.
Yes, Dr. Pai-Verma offers house calls when patients need them. She also conducts telemedicine visits through the Atlas MD application for members who prefer remote access.
Dr. Pai-Verma spent a decade at Rush University Medical Center as both clinical faculty and medical director of Internal Medicine. She also earned recognition from the Stritch School of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago for resident teaching in 2005 and 2006. That academic background informs the rigor and depth she brings to each patient relationship.
Doctor profile last updated April 3, 2026