About
W. James Pettit, MD is a board-certified Family Medicine physician based in Alexandria, Virginia. He earned his undergraduate degree in American Studies from Amherst College in 1982, then his Doctorate of Medicine from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia in 1997. He completed his internship at INOVA Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church and his Family Practice residency at the Medical College of Virginia in Fairfax.
Dr. Pettit holds membership in the American Academy of Family Physicians and earned recognition in Best Doctors in America in 2014. He focuses on preventive medicine and early detection, believing that most conditions respond well to treatment when identified early. He favors lifestyle modifications over prescription medication when clinically appropriate. His clinical interests include cardiovascular health, diabetes, asthma, and allergies, with particular attention to senior and geriatric care. Outside of medicine, Dr. Pettit enjoys cycling and cooking.
Education & Training
Undergraduate
Amherst College, B.A. American Studies, 1982
Medical School
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA
Residency
Family Practice, Medical College of Virginia, Fairfax, VA, 1997-2000
Additional Training
Internship: INOVA Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA, 1997-1998
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Pettit right for?
Dr. Pettit serves patients of all ages, from children and young adults to seniors. Adults managing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, or allergies benefit from his targeted clinical focus. He works especially well with older patients navigating the medical and social challenges of aging. Patients who value a physician who listens carefully and personalizes care to individual circumstances will find a strong fit here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Pettit focuses on cardiovascular health, diabetes, asthma, and allergies. He also provides comprehensive family medicine care for patients of all ages. His preventive approach means he works proactively to manage these conditions before they progress.
Yes, Dr. Pettit sees patients of all ages and backgrounds. He treats children, adults, and older adults. He also visits patients at a senior living community, attending to the unique medical and social needs that come with aging.
Yes, Dr. Pettit holds board certification in Family Medicine. He earned his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College and completed his residency training at the Medical College of Virginia.
Dr. Pettit prioritizes lifestyle modifications over prescription medication when clinically appropriate. He reserves medication for situations where it is truly necessary. He believes strong doctor-patient relationships and early detection form the foundation of good medicine.
Dr. Pettit earned his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia in 1997. He completed his internship at INOVA Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Virginia, and his Family Practice residency at the Medical College of Virginia in Fairfax.
Dr. Pettit earned recognition in Best Doctors in America in 2014. He also holds membership in the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Yes. Every office visit is with Dr. Pettit personally. The practice does not route patients to nurse practitioners or physician assistants for regular appointments.
Dr. Pettit holds privileges at INOVA Alexandria Hospital. This affiliation supports continuity of care when patients require hospital-level services.
Doctor profile last updated April 11, 2026