ABOUT Your Physician
Meet Dr. Shelly Kakar
Welcome. I’m Dr. Shelly Kakar, a board-certified Internal Medicine physician dedicated to delivering personalized, prompt, and relationship-centered care through Direct Primary Care.
Trained as an osteopathic physician (D.O.), I believe in caring for the whole person and shared decision-making. I have spent the past decade on the front lines of medicine as a hospital physician, caring for patients with both acute and complex medical conditions at their most vulnerable moments. Witnessing these illnesses in their most advanced states has reinforced my belief that exceptional primary care can change lives. I am deeply motivated to provide proactive, personalized care so that you and your loved ones can live healthy, fulfilling lives.
Throughout my career, I’ve also served in academic medicine, mentoring future physicians, leading clinical teams, and helping shape the next generation of healthcare providers. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to delivering thoughtful, evidence-based care while always putting patients first.
I am fluent in English, Punjabi, and Hindi, allowing me to provide care to patients with diverse cultural backgrounds and understand how that plays a vital role in their personal health.
About Your Physician
Meet Dr. Shelly Kakar
Welcome. I’m Dr. Shelly Kakar, a board-certified Internal Medicine physician dedicated to delivering personalized, prompt, and relationship-centered care through Direct Primary Care.
Trained as an osteopathic physician (D.O.), I believe in caring for the whole person and shared decision-making. I have spent the past decade on the front lines of medicine as a hospital physician, caring for patients with both acute and complex medical conditions at their most vulnerable moments. Witnessing these illnesses in their most advanced states has reinforced my belief that exceptional primary care can change lives. I am deeply motivated to provide proactive, personalized care so that you and your loved ones can live healthy, fulfilling lives.
Throughout my career, I’ve also served in academic medicine, mentoring future physicians, leading clinical teams, and helping shape the next generation of healthcare providers. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to delivering thoughtful, evidence-based care while always putting patients first.
I am fluent in English, Punjabi, and Hindi, allowing me to provide care to patients with diverse cultural backgrounds and understand how that plays a vital role in their personal health.
My Story
Why I Chose Direct Primary Care
Direct Primary Care allows me to return to the heart of medicine.
Instead of caring for patients only after they become sick enough to require hospitalization, I now have the opportunity to help keep them healthy in the first place. By taking the time to truly understand your health, your goals, and your story, we can focus on prevention, early intervention, and long-term wellness.
By removing insurance from the primary care relationship, we’re able to simplify healthcare, improve access, and create a more personalized experience. You’ll have direct communication with me, longer visits, same- or next-day appointments whenever possible, and a physician who is invested in your long-term health—not the number of patients seen in a day.
“I wanted to practice medicine the way I would want it for the people I love.”
Dr. Kakar
Proactive Healthcare
My Approach
At Jiva, healthcare is proactive, not reactive.
The name Jiva comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “life.”
I believe exceptional primary care combines evidence-based medicine with compassionate listening. Every treatment plan is individualized because no two patients are the same.
Whether we’re working to prevent chronic disease, optimize existing medical conditions, improve your overall health, or navigate life’s transitions, we’ll partner together to create a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.
I want every patient to feel heard, known, and supported - not just during illness, but throughout every stage of life.
My philosophy is simple:
Listen first. Treat the whole person. Build lasting relationships that go beyond the medical appointment.
How I Practice
A few things I believe.
Time
Time is part of the medicine
The most underrated tool in a clinic is a doctor who isn't rushing. Most of what matters turns up in the unhurried conversation.
Care
You are more than your labs
Numbers matter, but so does how you actually feel. I treat the whole person, not the printout.
Connection
Good care is a partnership
You know your body, I know medicine, and the best decisions get made when we think it through together.
How I Practice
A few things I believe.
Time
Time is part of the medicine
The most underrated tool in a clinic is a doctor who isn't rushing. Most of what matters turns up in the unhurried conversation.
CAre
You are more than your labs
Numbers matter, but so does how you actually feel. I treat the whole person, not the printout.
Connection
Good care is a partnership
You know your body, I know medicine, and the best decisions get made when we think it through together.
Away From The Clinic
Beyond Medicine
Outside the office, you can usually find me working out at Burn Boot Camp Zionsville, enjoying an iced coffee, or cheering from the sidelines at my children's baseball and soccer games. My husband and I love trying new cuisines, exploring different cultures, and traveling.
I am honored to partner with you on your journey to lifelong health and excited to redefine what primary care is.
Dr. Kakar and family
Away From The Clinic
Beyond Medicine
Outside the office, you can usually find me working out at Burn Boot Camp Zionsville, enjoying an iced coffee, or cheering from the sidelines at my children's baseball and soccer games. My husband and I love trying new cuisines, exploring different cultures, and traveling.
I am honored to partner with you on your journey to lifelong health and excited to redefine what primary care is.
Become a Member
Let's start with a conversation.
The best way to know if Jiva is right for you is simply to talk. Reserve your spot and we'll find a time that works for you.