Dr. Lori Banka, D.O., is an allergy and immunology specialist who brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to her practice. Born and raised in Orange County, Dr. Banka’s passion for medicine was nurtured from a young age by her parents, both esteemed physicians. This early exposure to the field set the foundation for a medical career dedicated to improving the lives of patients with allergic and immunologic conditions.
Dr. Banka completed her undergraduate studies at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where her academic excellence and commitment to medicine were evident. She went on to attend Western University of Health Sciences for medical school, graduating in the top 3% of her class. Her outstanding performance earned her the San Miguel Scholarship for the best outgoing student in pediatrics and the Women’s Scholar Award, recognizing her as one of the top 10% of women in her class.
Following medical school, Dr. Banka completed her pediatric residency at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. She then furthered her expertise as a pediatric hospitalist at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, where she was not only a dedicated clinician but also an inspiring teacher, mentoring medical students and residents.
Driven by a desire to specialize further, Dr. Banka pursued an Allergy and Immunology fellowship at the University of Southern California (USC). After completing her fellowship, she spent six years as an allergy attending, where she continued to excel in clinical practice and education, receiving teaching awards for her work with residents and allergy fellows.
Dr. Banka’s clinical expertise encompasses a broad range of allergic and immunologic conditions. She has a particular interest in food allergies, including their prevention and oral immunotherapy, as well as atopic dermatitis and asthma, with a focus on inner-city asthma. Her goal is to enhance the quality of life for all her patients and help them thrive despite their allergic conditions.
Dr. Banka is known for her compassionate and empathetic approach, genuinely striving to make a positive impact in her community. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her family and her two delightful daughters. Her hobbies include reading, dancing, exploring new experiences, hiking, traveling, and finding joy in laughter.
Dr. Lori Banka warmly welcomes both pediatric and adult patients, eager to offer her expertise and support in navigating the complexities of allergies and immunologic health.