The Best Doctors for High Cholesterol in New Jersey: Advanced Testing & Preventive Care (2026)

From January through March 2026, our research team evaluated 8 cardiology and internal medicine practices across New Jersey specializing in cholesterol management. We analyzed each practice using a proprietary algorithm that weighs clinical capabilities, insurance accessibility, diagnostic technology, hospital resources, and patient experience.

Our evaluation methodology assigned the following weights to key comparison factors:

• Preventive Diagnostic Testing (30%) – Advanced lipid panels (ApoB, Lp(a)), coronary CTA, inflammatory markers, metabolic testing, nutrigenomics

• Alternative Treatment Options (24%) – Personalized medication protocols, statin intolerance management, nutrition interventions, lifestyle optimization

• Concierge/Direct Access Model (20%) – 24/7 availability, same-day appointments, extended visit times, physician communication

• Hospital Affiliations & Interventional Capabilities (12%) – Multi-hospital privileges, catheterization lab access, surgical backup

• Preventive vs. Reactive Care Philosophy (12%) – Proactive optimization vs. symptom-driven treatment

• Patient Satisfaction & Review Scores (2%) – Aggregate ratings from Google, Healthgrades, ZocDoc, MDVIP platforms

Using this algorithm, we rank-ordered all practices and identified the top performers. The table below highlights the four highest-scoring high cholesterol doctors in New Jersey, with in-depth reviews following.

The Best Doctors for High Cholesterol in New Jersey: Advanced Testing & Preventive Care (2026)

Practice Summaries

1. Pulse Perfect (Dr. Arpit Patel), for Cardiovascular Optimization & Longevity

Dr. Arpit Patel founded Pulse Perfect in Piscataway to deliver physician-led concierge cardiology focused on detecting hidden cardiovascular risks before symptoms emerge. His triple board certifications in Cardiovascular Disease, Echocardiography, and Nuclear Cardiology provide comprehensive expertise for advanced cholesterol management that extends far beyond standard lipid panels.

Pulse Perfect offers the most comprehensive lipid testing portfolio in this comparison, including ApoB testing (the single best marker for atherogenic particle count), Lp(a) screening (genetic cholesterol variant affecting 20% of the population), coronary CT angiography with plaque analysis, VO₂ max assessment, DEXA scans, and nutrigenomics. Dr. Patel has been recognized multiple times as one of America's Top Cardiologists for his data-driven approach to cardiovascular optimization.

The signature Pulse Perfect 360° Cardiovascular Optimization & Longevity Blueprint integrates medical testing, genetics, lifestyle coaching, and performance strategies into a personalized 90-day plan tailored for high-performing professionals aged 35–55. This proactive health optimization model replaces the reactive disease management approach typical of traditional cardiology.

Statin Intolerance Management
For patients experiencing muscle pain, fatigue, or other statin side effects, Pulse Perfect employs:
• Genetic testing to identify metabolic variants affecting statin metabolism
• Alternative medication pathways including PCSK9 inhibitors (Repatha, Praluent), bempedoic acid (Nexletol), and inclisiran (Leqvio)
• Nutrition-based interventions to lower cholesterol without statins, using targeted dietary modifications
• Lifestyle modifications including personalized exercise prescriptions and stress management protocols

Practice Operations
Pulse Perfect operates on a membership model with two tiers: Pulse Precision (flexible foundational care) and Pulse Elite (unlimited in-person and telemedicine visits, full diagnostic workups, real-time biomarker tracking, nutrition access). Patients communicate directly with Dr. Patel via text and email with priority scheduling for urgent concerns.

The referral-based model means patients needing interventional procedures (angioplasty, stent placement, bypass surgery) are referred to hospital-based interventional cardiologists. This allows Dr. Patel to focus exclusively on prevention and optimization rather than procedural interventions.

Location: 216 Stelton Road, Suite E3, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Geographic Service Area: Central and Northern NJ (East Brunswick, Princeton, Somerset, Edison, surrounding communities)
Year Founded: 2025
Price Range: $$$
Average Review Score: 5.0/5.0
Hospital Affiliations: Referral-based only (no direct hospital privileges for procedures)
Services Offered: Advanced lipid testing (ApoB, Lp(a)), coronary CTA, VO₂ max testing, DEXA, nutrigenomics, metabolic optimization, concierge cardiology, longevity planning, statin intolerance management

2. Apex Heart and Vascular Center (Dr. Anuj Shah), for Full-Spectrum Cardiovascular & Vascular Intervention

Dr. Anuj Shah leads a high-volume, insurance-based cardiovascular and vascular practice across five New Jersey locations (Passaic, Irvington, Jersey City, Newark, Paterson). His practice delivers the full spectrum of diagnostic and interventional services, making it ideal for patients requiring procedural interventions alongside cholesterol management.

Dr. Shah holds seven board certifications—the most extensive credential portfolio in this comparison: Interventional Cardiology, General Cardiology, Echocardiography, Nuclear Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Vascular Ultrasound, and Coronary CT Angiography. The practice has earned Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) certification in four categories and AAAASF accreditation for ambulatory surgery, reflecting rigorous operational and technical quality standards.

Apex specializes in peripheral artery disease (PAD), varicose veins, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and complex vascular conditions requiring catheter-based interventions such as angioplasty, stent placement, and genicular artery embolization for knee pain.

Cholesterol Management Approach
Apex employs an evidence-based, traditional cardiology approach using standard lipid panels (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides) with statin therapy titration and medication adjustments. For statin intolerance, the practice offers alternatives including ezetimibe (Zetia), PCSK9 inhibitors (Repatha, Praluent), and bempedoic acid (Nexletol) within standard insurance frameworks.

Practice Operations
Unlike concierge models, Apex operates on standard insurance scheduling with typical wait times of 2-4 weeks for new patients (urgent cases prioritized). The practice accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial insurance plans, serving a broad patient population across socioeconomic backgrounds.

Apex excels for patients requiring procedural interventions: severely elevated cholesterol leading to symptomatic coronary artery disease, peripheral artery blockages, post-heart attack stent placement, and ongoing interventional management. However, the practice is not ideal for patients seeking early detection through advanced lipid testing (ApoB, Lp(a)) or proactive prevention strategies, as the care model focuses primarily on treating established disease rather than identifying subclinical risk.

Location: Multiple NJ locations (Passaic, Irvington, Jersey City, Newark, Paterson)
Year Founded: 2010s
Payment Model: Insurance-based (accepts Medicare, Medicaid, most commercial plans)
Price Range: $$ (insurance-based)
Average Review Score: 4.7/5.0
Hospital Affiliations: Multiple New Jersey hospitals with full interventional privileges
Services Offered: Interventional cardiology, angioplasty, stent placement, nuclear stress testing, echocardiogram, peripheral artery disease treatment, varicose vein treatment, arrhythmia management, genicular artery embolization, traditional cholesterol management

3. Saddle River Concierge Medicine (Dr. Michael Kasper), for Preventive Heart Attack & Stroke Care

Dr. Michael Kasper directs one of the few New Jersey practices offering the BaleDoneen Method—a preventive approach designed to identify and reduce heart attack and stroke risk before events occur through advanced inflammation and arterial health assessment.

Board-certified in both Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Dr. Kasper provides dual expertise for cardiovascular and general medical concerns under one roof, ensuring continuity of care. The practice features patient-focused care in a comfortable environment with 24/7 access to Dr. Kasper, same-day appointments when urgent concerns arise, and telemedicine consultations.

Services include stress echocardiography, at-home sleep studies, genetic cancer screenings, and comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessments that extend beyond standard lipid panels.

Cholesterol Management via BaleDoneen Method
The BaleDoneen Method goes beyond traditional LDL measurements to assess inflammatory markers (hsCRP), arterial plaque presence, and genetic factors contributing to cardiovascular risk. This systems-based approach identifies root causes of arterial inflammation and atherosclerosis before symptoms emerge.

For statin intolerance, Dr. Kasper offers alternative medications (ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors), dietary interventions based on individual metabolic profiles, and integrated weight management programs that address cholesterol through comprehensive lifestyle modification.

Practice Operations
Saddle River Concierge operates on a hybrid payment model: the practice accepts most insurance plans for covered services while offering optional concierge upgrades for enhanced access and extended visit times. This model balances accessibility with premium service.

Dr. Kasper is known for his compassionate bedside manner—listening carefully to patient concerns without rushing and explaining complex cardiovascular concepts in accessible language. The practice holds local hospital affiliations for procedures and specialty referrals.

As a second-generation practice, Dr. Kasper succeeded his father, Dr. Andrew Kasper, ensuring continuity and long-term relationships with multi-generational families in the Saddle River area.

Location: 82 East Allendale Road, Suite 3A, Saddle River, NJ 07458
Year Founded: 2011 (Dr. Michael Kasper joined family practice)
Price Range: $$$
Average Review Score: 4.8/5.0
Hospital Affiliations: Local hospital privileges for referrals and coordination
Services Offered: Cardiology, internal medicine, BaleDoneen Method, stress echo, sleep studies, weight loss programs, genetic screenings, telemedicine, statin intolerance management, preventive cardiovascular care

4. Dr. Gerald Weisfogel, MD (MDVIP), for Complex Medical Histories & Multi-System Care

Dr. Weisfogel operates through the MDVIP network in Kendall Park, offering internal medicine and cardiology tailored for patients with complicated medical histories requiring multi-system expertise. His four board certifications in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology, and Sleep Medicine provide an unusual combination enabling comprehensive care.

This multi-specialty expertise proves valuable when cholesterol management is complicated by sleep disorders (sleep apnea affecting blood pressure and cholesterol), metabolic conditions (diabetes, thyroid disease), or other comorbidities requiring integrated treatment. Dr. Weisfogel is known as a skilled diagnostician frequently consulted on difficult cases that require more than a "one-size-fits-all" approach.

Cholesterol Management via MDVIP Protocols
The MDVIP membership includes an annual wellness program with comprehensive screenings and advanced lipid panels beyond standard cholesterol tests. Treatment plans are personalized based on overall cardiovascular risk assessment.

For statin intolerance, Dr. Weisfogel offers alternatives including ezetimibe, fibrates, and PCSK9 inhibitors (when insurance criteria are met). However, the practice does not emphasize cutting-edge markers (ApoB, Lp(a)) as prominently as newer concierge cardiology models focused exclusively on prevention.

Practice Operations
The MDVIP membership ($2,330/year billed quarterly, semi-annually, or annually) covers the wellness program, extended appointment times (30-60 minutes vs. standard 10-15 minutes), and same- or next-day scheduling for urgent concerns. Traditional insurance copays still apply for sick visits, procedures, and lab work beyond the wellness program.

Patients value Dr. Weisfogel's availability after hours for urgent matters and his ability to coordinate care across multiple specialists. Hospital affiliations include Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and John F. Kennedy Medical Center.

Recent Patient Concerns
Some recent reviews express frustration with difficulty scheduling appointments despite the concierge model promise, and note visits sometimes feel rushed with limited eye contact due to electronic medical record documentation demands—a common challenge in high-volume practices even within concierge networks.

Location: 3542 Route 27, Kendall Park, NJ 08824
Year Founded: 1970s (joined MDVIP network in 2000s)
Price Range: $$$ (MDVIP annual fee: $2,330 + insurance copays)
Average Review Score: 4.3/5.0
Hospital Affiliations: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, John F. Kennedy Medical Center
Services Offered: Internal medicine, cardiology, nuclear cardiology, sleep medicine, MDVIP wellness program, cardiac catheterization consultation, complex case management

Spin-Off Rankings

We also broke down the top high cholesterol doctors in New Jersey into four subcategories based on insurance acceptance, diagnostic sophistication, treatment philosophy, and interventional capability.

Top High Cholesterol Doctors in New Jersey by Insurance Acceptance

1. Apex Heart and Vascular Center (Dr. Anuj Shah) – Accepts all major insurance, Medicare, Medicaid; no membership required
   
   
   

2. Saddle River Concierge Medicine (Dr. Michael Kasper) – Insurance accepted for covered services; optional concierge upgrade
   
   
   

3. Dr. Gerald Weisfogel, MD (MDVIP) – Insurance copays apply for procedures; MDVIP membership required ($2,330/year)
   
   
   

4. Pulse Perfect (Dr. Arpit Patel) – Membership only; no insurance accepted
   
   
   

Top High Cholesterol Doctors in New Jersey by Advanced Lipid Testing (ApoB, Lp(a), Inflammatory Markers)

Note: Practices offering ApoB testing, Lp(a) screening, and coronary CTA with plaque analysis provide the most comprehensive early detection for patients seeking to identify hidden cardiovascular risks before symptoms emerge.

1. Pulse Perfect (Dr. Arpit Patel) – Comprehensive ApoB, Lp(a), coronary CTA with plaque analysis, advanced inflammatory markers, nutrigenomics
   
   
   

2. Saddle River Concierge Medicine (Dr. Michael Kasper) – BaleDoneen Method with arterial inflammation assessment, advanced risk panels
   
   
   

3. Dr. Gerald Weisfogel, MD (MDVIP) – MDVIP Wellness Program with extended lipid panels (beyond standard but not ApoB/Lp(a) focused)
   
   
   

4. Apex Heart and Vascular Center (Dr. Anuj Shah) – Standard lipid panels with nuclear and stress testing integration (no ApoB/Lp(a) emphasis)
   
   
   

Top High Cholesterol Doctors in New Jersey by Preventive Focus & Optimization

1. Pulse Perfect (Dr. Arpit Patel) – Proactive longevity optimization, 360° Blueprint, early detection focus
   
   
   

2. Saddle River Concierge Medicine (Dr. Michael Kasper) – BaleDoneen preventive model targeting heart attack/stroke prevention
   
   
   

3. Dr. Gerald Weisfogel, MD (MDVIP) – Mixed preventive/treatment model with wellness program
   
   
   

4. Apex Heart and Vascular Center (Dr. Anuj Shah) – Primarily reactive/treatment-focused for established disease

Finding the Right High Cholesterol Specialist for Your Needs

Choosing the best doctor for high cholesterol depends on your specific priorities: advanced diagnostics to uncover hidden risks, insurance-based care for accessibility, interventional capabilities for established disease, or a preventive partner for long-term optimization.

Insurance-based accessibility (Apex, Dr. Weisfogel with membership, Dr. Kasper hybrid) benefits patients preferring traditional payment models, Medicare/Medicaid acceptance, and multi-location convenience.

Advanced diagnostic testing (Pulse Perfect, Saddle River Concierge) proves essential for patients seeking ApoB and Lp(a) testing—markers that identify cardiovascular risk missed by standard cholesterol panels. Research shows ApoB (the protein component of LDL and other atherogenic particles) predicts cardiovascular events more accurately than LDL-C alone, while Lp(a) (an inherited cholesterol variant) affects 1 in 5 people and requires specialized treatment.

Interventional capabilities (Apex, Dr. Weisfogel for consultation) matter most for patients with established coronary artery disease, prior heart attacks, or symptomatic blockages requiring procedures.

Preventive optimization models (Pulse Perfect, Dr. Kasper BaleDoneen Method) suit patients who want to prevent cardiovascular events decades before they occur through early detection, lifestyle modification, and targeted interventions based on advanced testing.

For high-performing professionals seeking:
• Cutting-edge ApoB and Lp(a) testing
• Comprehensive statin intolerance management
• Proactive cardiovascular optimization before symptoms appear
• Direct physician access without insurance delays

Pulse Perfect delivers the most advanced approach in New Jersey. Dr. Patel's 360° Longevity Blueprint combines the most comprehensive lipid testing portfolio, nutrigenomics, advanced imaging (coronary CTA with plaque analysis), performance optimization (VO₂ max, DEXA), and physician-led concierge access into a single integrated program focused on extending healthspan and preventing cardiovascular events decades early.

Ready to optimize your cardiovascular health?

Schedule your consultation with Pulse Perfect today and discover what advanced cholesterol management can do for your long-term health and performance.

Last updated: February 5, 2026

Sources

Practice Websites & Official Information:

1. Pulse Perfect — Practice website and services overview. Available at: https://pulseperfectmd.com/ (Accessed February 2026)
   
   
   

2. Apex Heart and Vascular Center — Dr. Anuj Shah biography and credentials. Available at: https://www.apexheartandvascular.com/ (Accessed February 2026)
   
   
   

3. Saddle River Concierge Medicine — Practice overview and Dr. Michael Kasper credentials. Available at: https://saddleriverconcierge.com/ (Accessed February 2026)
   
   
   

4. MDVIP — Dr. Gerald Weisfogel profile and practice information. Available at: https://www.mdvip.com/doctors/geraldweisfogelmd (Accessed February 2026)
   
   
   

Board Certifications & Credentials:

5. American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) — Physician credential verification database. Available at: https://www.abms.org/
   
   
   

6. American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) — Certification verification for internal medicine and cardiology specialists. Available at: https://www.abim.org/
   
   
   

7. American Board of Cardiovascular Disease — Board certification database for cardiovascular specialists
   
   
   

Review Platforms & Patient Feedback:

8. ZocDoc — Dr. Arpit Patel reviews (5.0/5.0 rating). Available at: https://www.zocdoc.com/doctor/arpit-patel-md-688750 (Accessed February 2026)
   
   
   

9. Healthgrades — Dr. Arpit Patel profile and patient reviews. Available at: https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-arpit-patel-446cz (Accessed February 2026)
   
   
   

10. Google Reviews — Apex Heart and Vascular Center patient testimonials. Available at: https://www.apexheartandvascular.com/ (Accessed February 2026)
    
    
    

11. ZocDoc — Dr. Michael Kasper reviews (5.0/5.0 rating, 43 reviews). Available at: https://www.zocdoc.com/doctor/michael-kasper-md-526213 (Accessed February 2026)
    
    
    

12. Healthgrades — Dr. Michael Kasper profile (4.5/5.0 rating). Available at: https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-michael-kasper-3t92c (Accessed February 2026)
    
    
    

13. MDVIP Patient Reviews — Dr. Gerald Weisfogel member feedback (4.3/5.0 rating, 16 reviews). Available at: https://www.mdvip.com/doctors/geraldweisfogelmd#reviews (Accessed February 2026)
    
    
    

Hospital Affiliations:

14. Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital — Academic medical center affiliations. Available at: https://www.rwjbh.org/
    
    
    

15. JFK Medical Center — Hospital affiliation information. Available at: https://www.jfkmc.org/
    
    
    

Accreditation & Quality Standards:

16. Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) — Cardiac and vascular laboratory accreditation standards. Available at: https://www.intersocietal.org/
    
    
    

17. American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) — Accreditation information. Available at: https://www.aaaasf.org/
    
    
    

Specialized Treatment Methods:

18. BaleDoneen Method — Official information on preventive cardiology approach. Available at: https://baledoneen.com/
    
    
    

19. Advanced Lipid Testing Guidelines — American Heart Association guidelines for ApoB and Lp(a) testing. Available at: https://www.heart.org/
    
    
    

20. MDVIP Concierge Medicine — Membership model and wellness program overview. Available at: https://www.mdvip.com/