Paloma Alejandro, MD

Paloma Alejandro, MD, is an attending physician affiliated with the Lupus Clinic at the MedStar Washington Hospital Center and the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. She is a Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology.

As a lupus specialist, Dr. Alejandro focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of lupus and skin disorders related to lupus. Additionally, she is currently Principal Investigator for the STARA clinical research trial at MedStar Washington Hospital Center that is exploring the discontinuation of TNF inhibitor therapy in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Dr. Alejandro received her medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico in San Juan, where she graduated cum laude. She then completed residency training in internal medicine at the New York Presbyterian - Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, associated with the Weill Cornell Medical College, where she served as Chief Resident. Finally, she joined MedStar Washington Hospital Center for a two-year fellowship in rheumatology. 

The field of rheumatology is advancing almost daily as scientists learn more about rheumatic disease. What is clear is that autoimmune rheumatic diseases require a multidisciplinary approach, meaning that patients may need to see multiple doctors, each specializing in a different field of medicine. MedStar Washington Hospital Center provides patients with a multidisciplinary rheumatology care center that allows them to schedule appointments with necessary doctors, all in the same center. 

Dr. Alejandro is passionate about growing MedStar Washington Hospital Center as the premier lupus treatment center in the Washington, D.C., area. She would like to extend treatment to more young adult patients with lupus, supporting them throughout their care and helping them to adhere to treatment in order to see improved outcomes.

Additionally, Dr. Alejandro is an advocate for the Hispanic community in the Washington, D.C., area. By breaking down the language barrier that often prevents a communicative relationship between healthcare providers and Spanish-speaking patients, she hopes to provide high-quality care to an often underserved population and improve health disparities.

Philosophy of Care

“I am my patients’ first advocate. It’s important to me to always be available to my patients, because communication provides a strong foundation for the patient-provider relationship. Peace of mind and education are essential aspects of the treatment process. This is why I encourage my patients to reach out to me with any questions. I will always provide honest and straightforward answers because in order for my patients to trust in me and the treatment I provide, I must be transparent.”