A doctor focused on you

James R. Malinak, MD

Rheumatology

Education 

Dr. James Malinak was accepted to the Honors Program in Medical Education at Northwestern University where he received his MD degree in 1981. He completed his internship and residency at Hennipen County Medical Center, University of Minnesota, then went to UCLA where he completed a fellowship in rheumatology.

Medical Career

Dr. Malinak has been in private practice in La Mesa since 1986 where he has focused on both rheumatology and primary care. Currently, he is on staff at Grossmont Hospital.

Over the last 20 years, he has been the principle investigator for multiple clinical studies. He has served on many committees for advances in patient care and given numerous lectures to educate physicians. He has also gone on 10 medical missions to Tijuana where it was his privilege to provide care for those in need and teach medical students.

Dr. Malinak is Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. He belongs to several professional medical societies including the California Medical Association and the San Diego County Medical Society. He is a Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology.

Awards and Achievements

• Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society
• Recipient of the “Top Physician Patient Experience Award” for Sharp Community Medical Group – 2015 and 2017.

Personal

Dr. Malinak was born and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio. He has been married for 34 years and has 2 children. He enjoys hiking with his dog, tennis, and road cycling.