Notice of Practice Closure

March 14, 2026

To our Patients and Friends,

The office of Coast Dermatology/James Kunkel MD Inc. will close effective June 30, 2026. After July 15, 2026, we will no longer be able to provide medical care. The reasons for this closure are myriad and will likely feel familiar to those who have tried to navigate the healthcare system in the last few years. Medicare and private insurers have implemented processes and requirements making it nearly impossible to survive as the small independent rural practice we have enjoyed over the last several decades. Rather than trying to string things along, implementing and navigating electronic health records, typing rather than talking and listening during our visits, while dramatically increasing our patient volume, I opted simply to close. In my opinion, these measures would sully the care experience that our patients deserve and expect. Finally, my decision was hastened by an inability to receive an extension on our now twenty-year lease.

To ensure continuity of your care, I encourage you to establish a relationship with another provider as soon as possible. Your confidential medical records will be most easily obtained at no charge, during normal business hours in the months of April through July, prior to our vacating the current office space. After this time, they will be securely stored and available by written request for a fee. Instructions for retrieving records after July 31, 2026, will be available on our website at www.coastdermaologyag.com. Please note we will no longer be able to refill prescriptions after July 14, 2026. There are multiple competent dermatology providers between San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria who would be happy to assume your care.

It has been 35 years for me since graduating from medical school, a long and extraordinarily fulfilling career. It has been a privilege and an honor to take care of you and your families. I appreciate more than you know, the trust you have placed with us for your healthcare. We stand ready as always to help you in any way that we can during this transition.

Sincerely,

James Kunkel MD FAAD