About Us
Bakersfield’s Top-Rated Neurology
Providing the Most Advanced & Effective Treatment in Neurological Care
Our staff and providers are dedicated to putting you at ease throughout the entire process of treatment and care. Our Physicians and Staff excel in communication, compassion, and most of all, the outcome of your treatment.
You will find our diagnostics are among the most advanced available. Finding the source of a concern and treating our patients with the best care possible is our approach and practice. That is why California Neurology Institute, formally known as Maheep Virdi M.D. & Associates, is a seasoned and trusted neurology center in the entire Central Valley.
From scheduling the visit to understanding your diagnosis and treatment, California Neurology Institute practices caring, compassion, and open communication. Those open communications include your primary care physicians and any other providers who are coordinating your care.
We start by listening to you. Taking in all the relevant medical history as well as your personal input, we start the diagnosis process. California Neurology Institute is a highly experienced neurology center and continuously stays current on the developments and changes in the field of neurology.
Neurologist
Dr. Maheep Virdi trained in neurology at Westchester Medical Center, where he also completed a neurovascular fellowship. Since 2015, he has served Bakersfield patients with expertise in stroke, MS, Parkinson’s, and other neurological disorders. Recognized for research and compassionate care, he performs EEGs, EMGs, and advanced treatments while staying current with the latest clinical advances.
Neurologist
Dr. Luis Natali earned his medical degree from La Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in 2001. He trained in internal medicine at Our Lady of Mercy, Bronx, completed neurology residency at NY Medical College, and a Neurophysiology Fellowship at Herman Memorial, Houston. Dedicated to compassionate general neurology care, he also enjoys travel, exploring new cuisines, and espresso culture.
Neurologist
Dr. Shaun Rajah completed his neurology residency at the University of Iowa, training under leaders such as Dr. Kimura in electromyography and Dr. Adams in vascular neurology. He previously served as Director of Neurotology and Stroke in Medford, OR, with extensive experience in telemedicine and acute stroke care. Now based in Bakersfield, he enjoys martial arts, serving as a ringside physician, and spending time with his family.
Physician Assistant
Gloria Perry is a physician assistant with experience in primary care, emergency medicine, and neurology. She began her career as a paramedic in 2010 before earning her PA degree from Stanford University. Dedicated to patient-centered, equitable care, she values empathy and clear communication. Outside of medicine, she enjoys dog training, fitness, and family time.
MSN, FNP-C
Family Nurse Practitioner
Cindy Cortez is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner at the California Neurology Institute. With emergency and critical care experience, she specializes in neurological conditions. A bilingual Spanish speaker, she is dedicated to improving access for diverse patients. She earned her BSN and MSN from CSU Bakersfield and enjoys family, fitness, and travel.
Family Nurse Practitioner
Leslie Perez is dedicated to holistic patient care, with backgrounds in Pharmacology, Nursing, and advanced practice as a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Educator, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Active in AAN and CANP, she continues to expand her expertise. Outside of work, she enjoys piano, reading, travel, and wine tasting.
