Doctor's Office
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Dr. Kato

Primary Care That Makes You Primary

Gary H. Kato, MD

Family Medicine
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5/5 27 reviews

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Kato.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$450.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$900.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,800.00 each year*


*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Residency

Swedish Hospital Medical Center
Seattle, WA
Family Medicine 1985-1987

Internship

Swedish Hospital Medical Center
Seattle, WA
1984-1985

Medical School

University of Washington School of Medicine
Seattle, WA
Doctorate of Medicine 1984

Undergraduate

Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Bachelor of Arts, Human Biology 1980
Graduated with Distinction

Diplomate, American Board of Family Medicine

Valley Medical Center UW Medicine

English and Conversational Japanese

Preceptor, Valley Family Medicine Residency Program 1987-1991, 2019-2020
University of Washington School of Medicine
 - Clinical Assistant Professor 1995-present
 - Clinical Instructor 1987-1995
 - Preceptor, Community Health Advancement Program 1986-1992
Board Member, Valley Physicians Organization 1996

Best Doctors, Seattle Met Magazine 2014, 2015
Top 10 Doctors in the state, Vitals 2014
Outstanding Teacher Award, Valley Family Medicine, Family Medicine Residency 1991
Teacher Development Award (1 of 10 Physicians to receive nationwide), American Academy of Family Physicians 1988 
Phi Beta Kappa (elected as a Junior 1979), Stanford University

Washington

Medical mission trips to Papua New Guinea, Trinidad and Thailand

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$450.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$900.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,800.00 each year*

Doctor's Office
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Dr. Kato

Meet Gary H. Kato, MD


My hope as your family physician is that you will feel that you are cared for with all the warmth and concern of family. I rely on wisdom from the ages. I believe that in medicine, prevention and a healthy lifestyle are key. Hippocrates wrote in 400 BC, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Treating the whole person is vital. I have learned from Proverbs that, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.” 

As a board‐certified family physician and educator, I believe in personalized care and, similar to concierge medicine practices, I also offer conveniences like same- or next-day appointments that start on time. Being your MDVIP-affiliated, private doctor, we will work together as a team. My focus is on primary care, but I also have interests in cardiovascular health, preventive medicine and travel medicine. I see patients throughout the Puget Sound region.

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Kato.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$450.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$900.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,800.00 each year*


*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Primary Care That Makes You Primary

A new healthcare model to suit your lifestyle
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Woman at Cafe

Benefits of joining Dr. Kato's practice with MDVIP

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MDVIP Wellness Program

Expect comprehensive screenings and tests and a custom wellness plan designed for you.

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Better Doctor-Patient Relationship

97% of MDVIP members are satisfied with their relationship (vs 58% in traditional PCP).

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Same/Next-Day Appointments

See Dr. Kato quickly and take your time during each appointment.

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Reachable 24/7

Reach Dr. Kato by phone after-hours and on weekends.

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Smaller Practice Size

MDVIP practices are smaller than most primary care practices, which means your doctor has more time to help you.

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Your Dedicated Doctor

See Dr. Kato when you go to the office — not someone else like a nurse practitioner or physician assistant

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Travel Benefits

If you need urgent care while traveling, your physician can help arrange your care with a local hospital, pharmacy or doctor.

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Medical Centers of Excellence

For patients who need care beyond what is available locally, MDVIP can connect your doctor with specialists at some of the country’s leading medical institutions

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Better Health Outcomes

Members have better control of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Doctors who operate in the MDVIP models typically see far fewer patients than traditional primary care doctors. That gives them more time to develop deeper doctor-patient relationships that can lead to better outcomes. They can also offer conveniences that most primary care doctors can’t, including same- and next-day appointments. They’re available after hours for urgent matters. And they have time to focus on prevention. That focus begins with the MDVIP Wellness Program, which patients pay for with their annual membership fee.

Most MDVIP-affiliated primary care practices accept insurance (your physician can tell you whether they accept your specific insurance plan). Your annual fee pays for preventive care medical services that insurance usually doesn’t cover (e.g., advanced diagnostic testing and screenings). Your MDVIP-affiliated physician will continue to bill your insurance and charge copays, co-insurances and deductibles as he or she currently does for other medical services like sick visits.

MDVIP makes wellness and prevention easier by providing your physician with innovative tools and technology. MDVIP supports your physician’s practice and seeks to eliminate barriers to a positive healthcare experience. Your doctor will determine whether and how to incorporate these tools at his/her discretion.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$450.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$900.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,800.00 each year*

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Kato.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$450.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$900.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,800.00 each year*


*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

Reviews from around the web

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02/25/2022 Mark Beatty
Dr. Kato is an amazing doctor that is very inciteful with what I need. He always shares so much knowledge with me when I ask questions. I appreciate that so much! He is very professional and caring!
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03/02/2025 elaine haroldson
I am so pleased to be in the care of Dr Gary Kato. MDVIP has provided him the opportunity to spend time curating my medications in a face-to-face manner with current research in mind. Dr Kato personalized my care and I am confident he does so with all those fortunate to be in his care.
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02/06/2024 Bertie Goodfellow
The best doctor around!
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07/12/2022 Olesya Kalita
One of the best
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02/07/2024 Joyce Holt
Dr. Gary Kato has been our family doctor for 3 generations. Love how caring he always is, that he is constantly researching, that he mixes natural with medical science for our best outcome.
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05/30/2017 William Reichlinger
Phenomenal doctor, good administration, and a nice office.
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02/07/2024 Louise Mahaffie
He has been my doctor for 25 plus years. I have also worked in his practice for 28 years. As a nurse of 44 years, I have never experienced care like doctor Kato and his staff. They are over the top.
Wish he could be cloned!
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03/13/2025 Mary March
Dr. Kato demonstrates infinite patience and sincere caring. I love that he has an ongoing curiosity about supplements and doesn’t hesitate to recommend one if he feels it will enhance my current medication. I truly feel he has my best interests at heart!
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02/18/2022 Young Kim
Dr. Kato & your staffs are absolutely so fantastic,
knowledgeable, professional, attentively listening, while timely care for every patients! You sure are the world class best family physician I have ever heard and seen. Moreover, I am so blessed that I have been under your care. Thank you.
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03/13/2025 Ann Helm
Dr. Kato has been my PCP for many years. He is one of the most kind, dedicated, thorough, and compassionate doctors I’ve ever known. He always listens attentively to my concerns and never makes me feel rushed. When needed he has made referrals to excellent specialists. I really trust his opinion knowing he stays up to date with current research. Dr Kato’s staff is wonderful too.
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03/16/2024 Joan Davis
Dr Kato and his staff are very compassionate and knowledgeable. They go above and beyond to meet my needs readily and efficiently.
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03/20/2022 Alice Yeager
Dr. Kato is the last of a dying breed-GREAT doctor with phenomenal bedside manner. He is a good listener, researches when he's unsure, and makes sure that he covers all areas pertaining to your health. He never leaves you questioning your visit.
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02/06/2024 Jane Rose
I am extremely satisfied with the care I receive from Dr. Kato and his staff. His manner is always very calm and reassuring. I have been with him for over 30 years and his consistency has always been of the highest quality. Dr. Kato has always given the best care and advice, and you never felt that you are being rushed through an appointment. I look forward to my appointments with him for all his care and encouragement.

Thank You Dr. Kato
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02/17/2023 Mike N
I've been a patient of Dr. Kato's for over 30 years. He is a great listener, has excellent bedside manner and innovative with his treatment. Thank you for many years of great care!
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03/20/2024 Denise Brumbaugh
Dr Kato is always thorough in his explanations, takes his time with you and is very responsive to after hours calls. Kind nurses and helpful front office staff. Have never been disappointed with his referrals. I feel very lucky to have him as my Dr!
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03/17/2022 Little Bird Piano Academy
I appreciate having a doctor I can trust. Dr. Kato keeps himself very informed about medical research and I trust him keep ahead of my health needs. His advice has always been timely and helpful, and I feel like I am cared about and respected by Dr. Kato and his entire staff.
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02/07/2024 Kellie Carpenter
Appreciate the care and great bedside manner at my Doctors office!
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06/22/2020 Michael Saunders
We have received medical care from Dr Kato and his team for 30 years. They are the finest physicians and take care to keep track of my family's health and the most recent medical findings to give us the best care.
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12/04/2013 Kristen Lehman
Wonderful wonderful medical doctor. He is very well educated on nutrition unlike many other doctors. He knows I don't rely on medication and is willing to brain storm with me outside the box to discover solutions. My children go to him and my grand children are being cared for by him. Please don't ever retire doc. :-)
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03/03/2022 Kat Dubbya
Being ill is never enjoyable however, I always look forward to going to Cornerstone Primary Care and specifically Dr. Gary Kato whenever the need arises. He and the entire staff provide extraordinary care to their patients. The front line staff are always courteous and welcoming, the nursing staff are knowledgeable and caring and Dr. Kato is a conscientious, dedicated physician who provides a patient-first focus. He carefully listens to my concerns and is well versed in pharmacology and how medications interact and he shares that knowledge with his patients. He has an excellent bedside manner and treats all his patients with the utmost respect. I am SO fortunate to have him as my family physician. Cornerstone Primary Care Rocks!!!
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02/24/2022 Gary Anderson
Dr. Kato has been and will continue to be our primary care physician. He is very caring and concerned for our complete medical and mental well being.
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02/08/2023 Judy Rustik
Dr. Kato has always listened, treated me with respect, and made referrals when necessary before he became a MDVIP doctor. He is the reason I joined MDVIP.
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06/18/2023 Stephanie Chu
I have had the unbelievable luck in life to call Dr. Kato my doctor since I was five. I’m now almost forty and my daughter’s doctor is also Dr. Kato. I hope I can scratch the surface of adequately attempting to put into words who Dr. Kato is as a person and as a doctor. Ultimately, if you are lucky enough to encounter someone like Dr. Kato in your lifetime, you are a better person (not to mention healthier person) because of it. Dr. Kato is simply the rarest type of human being.

Due to genetics, I’ve had some issues with my health and one that happened to be life-threatening. Dr. Kato in his eternally soft-spoken, sincere and humble manner has saved my life, restored my health, and to my amusement, always manages to conclude each appointment with invaluable quick tips on healthier living (based on his latest fact-checked research of course). There is no medical resource I trust more than Dr. Kato.

It’s readily apparent that Dr. Kato has the genius level of intellect to do and achieve absolutely anything – in the medical profession or otherwise. However, lucky for us patients, it’s equally apparent that his heartfelt calling in life is to humbly serve and to help others with their most valuable resource – health.

Over the decades that I have seen Dr. Kato, he has not changed one bit (with the exception of an always expanding encyclopedic knowledge of every area of medicine). Dr. Kato still shows up to each appointment with the energy and passion of someone starting their first day and is so thorough in examining every aspect of your health and conducting his own research (to make doubly certain that his determinations are correct) that you wonder how it’s physically or humanly possible that he has visible volumes of files of other patients he cares for equally as much. In truth, I learned from staff, that Dr. Kato has quietly sacrificed his own health (which of course he rebounded from quickly to get back to his patients) and has never spoken of the long hours he has always worked – not because it’s necessary to run his practice or make a living – but because he cares so much for other people and silently knows he can be the difference.

When I think about the type of person I hope for myself and for my daughter to eventually become, I feel so fortunate that Dr. Kato comes to mind. I hope a day will come where Dr. Kato can retire and treasure being surrounded by his own loving family without worry of who he could be helping and saving. Thank you Dr. Kato and your incredible heart of gold staff (who have stuck by you through all the years) for all you do for others.
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02/13/2023 Royal Bugness
Dr. Gary Kato is the best doctor one could hope to come across. He not only listens when you speak, but he hears you. He is compassionate while trying to figure out the problem. He is genuinely one of the smartest people I've ever met. He isn't one to just throw a prescription at you hoping you'll go away, or shuffle you in and out. He truly wants the best for his patients.
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03/14/2025 Sheila Pless
I have been a patient of Dr. Gary Kato for many years. I have always been treated with respect by Dr. Kato as well as his Staff.
This Doctor and Office have gotten my through many large and small crises over this time. I've never given them a problem that hasn't been resolved to my satisfaction. Whatever the issue has been, I was never made that it wasn't important to them.

Testimonials from patients of Gary H. Kato, MD

The Proof is in the Pudding

from Carol B in WA • April 9, 2024
I cannot say enough about my primary care becoming an MD/VIP. I remember when I got a voicemail from him and asked to return his call. I thought he was retiring or going on from being a part time professor at the University of Washington to a full time professor. My heart sank. I was thrilled to find that he was becoming an MD/ViP! The proof is in the pudding! My health improved so significantly Read more...

The Proof is in the Pudding

from Carol B in WA • April 9, 2024
I cannot say enough about my primary care becoming an MD/VIP. I remember when I got a voicemail from him and asked to return his call. I thought he was retiring or going on from being a part time professor at the University of Washington to a full time professor. My heart sank. I was thrilled to find that he was becoming an MD/ViP! The proof is in the pudding! My health improved so Read more...

Dr. Gary H. Kato, My Doctor

from Emily in WA • March 25, 2024
Thirty-one years ago, in 1993 at the age of 54, I was blessed to become a patient of Dr. Gary Kato. Over the years, I had previously gone to about half dozen other general practitioners. I planned to retire in about 6 years and wanted a doctor that would help me manage my health into my later years. My daughter had heard positive reviews about Dr. Kato and suggested I see him. Well, it was the Read more...

Special Doctor

from Pamela in WA • March 11, 2024
I was accompanying my husband to his appointments with Dr. Kato. I liked his analytical approach and personalized treatment so I became a patient of his. I was told he is the best Doctor in the state and I don't disagree I'm very blessed to have him as my doctor.

D.r Kato

from Micky in WA • March 11, 2024
I do appreciate the 25 plus years he's been my doctor. Dr Kato is honest, straight forward and just a terrific human being.

The Office of Gary H. Kato, MD


Locations & Hours

Primary Office

17900 Talbot Road South Suite 102
Renton, WA 98055

call 1.866.696.3847

Get Directions

Hours

Mon 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Tue 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Wed 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Thu 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Fri 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Sat Closed
Sun Closed

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual, and annual payments.

Quarterly
$450.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$900.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,800.00 each year*

Get Started Today

This physician has limited availability and may have a Waiting List. Fill out the form to receive more information about Dr. Kato.

MDVIP Annual Membership Fee

MDVIP’s annual fee covers the Wellness Program and generally can be made in quarterly, semi-annual and annual payments.

Quarterly
$450.00 every 3 months*

Semi-Annual
$900.00 every 6 months*

Annual
$1,800.00 each year*


*MDVIP respects your privacy and will only use your personal information as stated in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By providing your number, you are giving your express written consent to MDVIP to receive telemarketing calls or text messages using an automatic phone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice at any number you may provide to MDVIP. You acknowledge that your consent to receive these communications is not required and that you may call the number listed above to get more information or enroll. You can contact MDVIP any time if you wish to stop receiving such messages by replying "STOP" via text or calling 1-877-764-2340. Text "HELP" for help. Message frequency may vary. Message/data rates may apply.

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