Last reviewed by Dr. Leena Joshi, MD, September 2026
Choosing a nephrologist in Burlingame involves evaluating insurance compatibility, office location, physician credentials, and communication style. Dr. Leena Joshi is a board-certified nephrologist serving patients in Burlingame, Daly City, and San Mateo County. Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive kidney care, including evaluation of chronic kidney disease, hypertension management, electrolyte disorders, and coordination with primary care physicians. Patients can verify insurance acceptance and schedule consultations at either of Dr. Joshi’s convenient San Mateo County locations.
What is a nephrologist?
A nephrologist is a physician who specializes in kidney health and related conditions. Nephrologists complete medical school, internal medicine residency, and additional fellowship training focused on kidney function, fluid balance, blood pressure regulation, and electrolyte management. These specialists diagnose and treat conditions affecting the kidneys, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, kidney stones, and high blood pressure related to kidney problems. Nephrologists also manage patients requiring dialysis and provide pre-transplant and post-transplant care. When primary care physicians identify kidney function concerns through blood tests or urine tests, they may refer patients to a nephrologist for specialized evaluation and ongoing management. Dr. Joshi works closely with referring physicians to provide coordinated care for patients throughout San Mateo County.
Signs and symptoms that may require nephrology care
- Persistent swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes
- Changes in urination patterns, including frequency, color, or foaming
- Unexplained fatigue or difficulty concentrating
- Poorly controlled high blood pressure despite medication
- Abnormal blood test results showing elevated creatinine or reduced kidney function
- Blood or protein detected in urine tests
- Family history of kidney disease or polycystic kidney disease
How Dr. Joshi manages nephrology patients
Dr. Joshi begins with a comprehensive evaluation that includes reviewing medical history, current medications, laboratory results, and imaging studies. During the initial consultation, Dr. Joshi discusses symptoms, family history, and lifestyle factors that may affect kidney health. Diagnostic testing may include blood work to assess kidney function, urine analysis, and imaging studies when appropriate. Based on these findings, Dr. Joshi develops an individualized treatment plan that may include medication adjustments, dietary recommendations, blood pressure management, and monitoring schedules. For patients with chronic kidney disease, Dr. Joshi provides education about disease progression and works to slow kidney function decline through evidence-based interventions. Dr. Joshi coordinates care with primary care physicians, cardiologists, and other specialists as needed. Regular follow-up appointments allow Dr. Joshi to monitor kidney function trends, adjust treatments, and address new concerns. Patients receive clear explanations about their condition and participate actively in treatment decisions at both Burlingame and Daly City office locations.
When to see a nephrologist for kidney concerns
- Your primary care physician refers you for abnormal kidney function tests
- You have diabetes or high blood pressure affecting your kidneys
- Blood tests show declining kidney function over time
- You experience recurrent kidney stones
- You need evaluation for potential dialysis or transplant
- You have an autoimmune condition affecting the kidneys
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Joshi accept my insurance?
Insurance participation can change over time. Patients should contact Dr. Joshi’s office at (650) 355-5551 to verify current insurance acceptance before scheduling. The office staff can confirm whether your specific plan is accepted at the Burlingame or Daly City location.
What should I bring to my first nephrology appointment?
Bring your insurance card, photo identification, current medication list with dosages, recent laboratory results, imaging reports, and a list of questions. Dr. Joshi may also request records from your primary care physician or previous specialists.
How often will I need follow-up appointments?
Follow-up frequency depends on your specific condition and kidney function status. Dr. Joshi may recommend appointments every few months for stable chronic kidney disease or more frequent visits if kidney function is changing or treatments require close monitoring.
Can I see Dr. Joshi at either office location?
Dr. Joshi maintains offices in both Burlingame and Daly City to serve San Mateo County patients conveniently. When scheduling, you can request the location that works best for your schedule and transportation needs.
What tests might Dr. Joshi order during my visit?
Common tests include blood work to measure creatinine, electrolytes, and other kidney function markers, as well as urine tests to check for protein or blood. Dr. Joshi may also order kidney ultrasounds or other imaging when clinically indicated.
Will I need to see a nephrologist long-term?
The duration of nephrology care depends on your diagnosis and kidney function. Some patients require ongoing monitoring for chronic conditions, while others may need only short-term consultation. Dr. Joshi will discuss the recommended care plan during your evaluation.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Joshi
Dr. Leena Joshi sees patients at two convenient San Mateo County locations. The Burlingame office is located at 1750 El Camino Real, Suite 301, Burlingame. The Daly City office is located at 1800 Sullivan Ave, Suite 507, Daly City. To schedule a consultation or verify insurance acceptance, call (650) 355-5551.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your physician about your specific situation.
Medically reviewed by Leena Joshi, MD.