Summary

Dr. Richard Gates specializes in thoracic surgery with four decades of experience treating complex heart conditions. He earned his medical degree from Yale University School of Medicine and completed his residency at UCLA Medical Center. His extensive background spans 40 years of surgical practice, and he communicates with patients in both English and Spanish.

Dr. Gates practices at Saint Jude Hospital, Saint Joseph Hospital Orange, MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, and CHOC Children's Hospital at Orange, serving patients throughout Fullerton, Orange, and Laguna Hills, California. He focuses on treating congenital heart disease, Eisenmenger syndrome, and atrial septal defects. His surgical expertise includes heart defect repair, open heart defect surgery, and patent ductus arteriosus surgery. Patients have given him an average rating of 3.6 on Vitals.

Overview based on verified provider data

Quick Facts

  • 3.6
  • 40 years of experience
  • speaks English, Spanish
  • Ucla Medical Center
  • 3 written reviews
  • 1 specialty
  • 9 areas of expertise
  • 1 board certification
  • 4 hospital affiliations
  • 3 office locations
  • Male

Patients’ Perspective

  • Gave an accurate diagnosis
  • Had a good bedside manner
  • Spent time with me

Office Locations

Dr. Richard Nelson Gates has 3 locations

Saint Jude Hospital

101 E Valencia Mesa DrFullerton, CA 92835

Saint Joseph Hospital Orange

1100 W Stewart DrOrange, CA 92868

Memorialcare Saddleback Medical Center

24451 Health Center DrLaguna Hills, CA 92653

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Dr. Richard Nelson Gates, MDDr. Sarah Pradka Lucas, MDDr. Graeme RosenbergDr. William Blake Swicord
Thoracic SurgeryThoracic SurgerySurgeryThoracic Surgery
Accepts New Patients Accepts New Patients
3.6 
40 Years of Experience 12 Years of Experience 5 Years of Experience
No Virtual Visit Option No Virtual Visit Option No Virtual Visit Option No Virtual Visit Option
Speaks English, Spanish Speaks English
Fullerton , CAValley Village , CALos Angeles , CALos Angeles , CA
Med School: Yale University School Of Medicine Med School: Yale University School Of Medicine Med School: University Of Alabama School Of Medicine
Current Profile
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Insurance Plans Accepted by Dr. Richard Nelson Gates

Be sure to verify insurance information directly with your doctor's office, as it may undergo frequent changes.

Medical Specialties

Dr. Richard Nelson Gates has the following specialty

Specialty Expertise

Dr. Richard Nelson Gates has the following 9 areas of expertise

  • Aneurysm
  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures
  • Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB)
  • Congenital Heart Defects
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis
  • Diabetes Complications
  • Thoracic/Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Varicose Veins
  • Vascular Malformations

Certifications, License, & Education

40 Years Experience

Dr. Richard Nelson Gates holds an active medical license in the state of California.

Medical License

Medical Doctor with an active medical license in the state of California that expired in 2026.

Education & Training

Residency

Completed their residency at Ucla Medical Center.

Medical School

Graduated from Yale University School Of Medicine in 1986.

NPI Number

Dr. Gates' NPI number is 1568481414.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which hospitals is Dr. Richard Gates affiliated with?
Dr. Richard Gates is affiliated with Saint Jude Hospital, Saint Joseph Hospital Orange, Memorialcare Saddleback Medical Center, and Choc Childrens Hospital At Orange.
Does Dr. Richard Gates accept my insurance?
You can see the insurance plans that Dr. Richard Gates accepts on their Vitals profile.
Does Dr. Richard Gates accept virtual/telehealth appointments?
Dr. Richard Gates has not indicated that they accept virtual/teleheatlh appointments. Contact their office through their Vitals profile to check for availability.
How can I make an appointment with Dr. Richard Gates?
You can find contact information for Dr. Richard Gates here on Vitals.
Is Dr. Richard Gates accepting new patients?
Dr. Richard Gates has not indicated that they accept new patients. Contact their office through their Vitals profile to check for availability.

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