Mon – Fri:    8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Meet your vein care physician

Dr. Tam Chu, DO

Physician Focused on Phlebology & Venous Disease
Dr. Tam Chu evaluates venous disease at Elite Vein Clinic in Avondale and Peoria. She cares for patients with varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency and related leg symptoms, with an emphasis on clear explanations and individualized treatment planning.
Dr. Tam Chu, DO, vein care physician at Elite Vein Clinic

ELITE VEIN CLINIC

Dr. Tam Chu, DO

Meet Dr. Chu

Understanding the Cause Behind Vein Symptoms

Dr. Tam Chu is an osteopathic physician focused on phlebology and venous disease. She evaluates varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, leg swelling, heaviness, aching and other symptoms that may be related to poor venous circulation.

She earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Internal Medicine residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. This medical background supports a broad assessment of leg symptoms, including possible causes beyond the veins.

At Elite Vein Clinic, Dr. Chu considers symptoms, medical history, examination findings and ultrasound results when appropriate before discussing care options. She emphasizes patient education and treatment planning that reflects each patient’s condition and needs.

Vein care background

Phlebology Practice, Training & Credentials

Osteopathic physician
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), with a background in the evaluation and management of adult medical conditions.

Clinical experience
Experience in patient assessment, diagnosis and medical care supports consideration of both venous and nonvenous causes of leg symptoms.

Current phlebology focus
Focused on evaluating varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency and related leg symptoms at Elite Vein Clinic.

External professional profiles NPI 1881905420 Doximity

Midwestern University – Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, 2010. Medical education in clinical evaluation, diagnosis and patient care.

St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center
Internal Medicine residency, completed in 2013. Training in the assessment and management of adult medical conditions.

Dr. Chu begins with a review of symptoms, medical history and clinical findings to assess whether venous disease may be contributing to a patient’s concerns.

When appropriate, duplex ultrasound helps assess vein anatomy, blood flow and venous reflux. These findings inform discussions about conservative care, further evaluation or minimally invasive treatment.

She works with Elite Vein Clinic’s ultrasound professionals and broader care team to help patients understand the findings and their next steps.

Clinical focus

Vein Conditions & Leg Symptoms

Dr. Chu considers the pattern of your symptoms and examination findings to assess whether your veins may be involved.

Venous disease

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

When leg vein valves do not close properly, blood can flow backward and increase pressure. Evaluation helps assess whether this reflux is contributing to your symptoms.

Visible veins

Varicose & Spider Veins

Bulging veins and fine surface veins can have different causes and care needs. An assessment helps distinguish cosmetic concerns from signs of underlying venous insufficiency.

Leg symptoms

Swelling, Pain & Heaviness

Aching or swollen legs can have more than one cause. Dr. Chu reviews when symptoms occur and how they affect daily life before considering vein-related testing.

Advanced signs

Skin Changes & Venous Ulcers

Persistent discoloration, irritated skin or a wound near the ankle may warrant a closer assessment of circulation and possible venous pressure changes.

Advanced vascular ultrasound team

Ultrasound-Supported Vein Evaluation at Elite Vein Clinic

Duplex ultrasound can provide a closer look at how blood moves through the leg veins. When indicated, it helps identify valve dysfunction and venous reflux that may not be apparent from symptoms or visible veins alone.

Dr. Chu considers imaging alongside your medical history and examination. Elite Vein Clinic’s ultrasound team and shared vascular-care protocols support the evaluation, helping connect diagnostic findings with a care plan suited to your needs.

Treatment options

Minimally Invasive Vein Treatments

Treatment recommendations follow an assessment of your symptoms, ultrasound findings and affected veins. Dr. Chu and the care team can explain which options may be appropriate for you.

Targeted heat delivered through a small catheter seals an eligible vein with faulty valves, allowing blood to return through other functioning veins.
A prescription microfoam is introduced into selected abnormal veins to close them. Suitability depends on the pattern of venous disease and the veins being treated.
A solution is injected into suitable spider veins or smaller surface veins, causing the treated vessels to close and gradually become less visible.
A catheter delivers a small amount of medical adhesive to seal a suitable refluxing vein. This option closes the vein without using thermal energy.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy & Microphlebectomy

Ambulatory Phlebectomy & Microphlebectomy

Selected bulging veins near the skin’s surface are removed through tiny openings. The evaluation helps determine whether this approach has a role in your care.

Across Elite Vein Clinic’s Arizona clinics, the practice has performed more than 10,000 vein procedures. These outpatient treatments are part of Elite Vein Clinic’s patient-focused approach to vein care.

Patient experiences

Why Patients Choose Elite Vein Clinic

My legs had really been hurting and burning so when I saw the advertisement on tv, I decided to give them a try. They got me in almost right away for the ultrasound and was told I needed 12 veins treated as they were not getting blood back to my heart as they should. They made 12 appointments within the next 6 weeks and I had my first treatment today. I have to say I was quite nervous but it wasn’t bad at all. The shots to numb it barely hurt at all and I just talked to one doctor, asking questions while the procedure was being done. I didn’t feel much at all. Everyone from front desk to doctors and nurses were super nice and caring. I am so glad I chose this clinic. I couldn’t ask for more and can’t wait for my legs to feel better!!
I was very anxious about having my veins treated, but the staff took an exceptional amount of time to answer my questions and to try to put me at ease. When it was time for my procedures, they explained everything as they went and told me what to expect. Jaime even asked me what kind of music I would like to listen to while they worked. It was a very clean and sterile environment. I would definitely recommend them to anyone needing vein treatments.
Elite Vein Clinic is the best vein clinic I have been to for treatment of all vein issues. I have been to other vein clinics and they were not as thorough or capable as Elite Vein Clinic. The entire staff at Elite Vein Clinic is great and I am very happy with my experience. Thank you very much!
I had my vein procedure done and everything went very smoothly. From the front desk to the procedure room, service was excellent. Friendly and professional service. Grateful to be a patient en at Elite vein clinic because my legs are feeling so much better.
From the moment I walked in the door of Elite Vein Clinic I felt like someone special. The staff were warm, friendly and professional. It was one of those very few stormy days so the staff pulled up the blinds so we could gather around to watch. The procedure was comfortable. When the Dr came in explained the problem in simple terms and then what would be done. She was excellent! I felt this whole experience should be rated a number 💯.
Awesome experience throughout my 8 appointments. 7 procedures and they were very punctual as well as friendly. It's been a long time since I've been to a Dr's appointment and didn't sit in the waiting room well past the appointment time. I have already recommended them to a friend on mine.
I had a fantastic experience getting my varicose veins treated through RFA! From the moment I walked in, the entire staff was incredibly warm, nice, and welcoming. Michelle and staff took the time to explain every single step of the procedure thoroughly, which completely put my mind at ease. The treatment itself went so smoothly, and the care I received was top-tier. I highly recommend this team to anyone considering vein treatment!
SELITE Vein Clinic treat her well. They’re really good there. They’re nice and pleasant and they take care of your pain in your legs or wherever you have vein problems. I would recommend seeing them if you have any pain. In her legs, arms, where those veins
I’ve had a wonderful experience with the entire team throughout my vein treatments. Everyone has been professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely kind, making me feel comfortable at every visit. They take the time to answer my questions and explain each step of the process, which I really appreciate. The front office is very welcoming and appointments run smoothly. I highly recommend them to anyone considering vein treatment!
This office is amazing. They gave me a last-minute appointment as a new patient. Front office helped me fill out. All forms Was helpful, very carefully explained all forms. The nurse practitioner took her time talked with me before they began any type of treatment. I would recommend this vein specialist to anybody and everybody that I knew and talk to thank you again.
I had some trepidation before visiting Elite Vein Clinic for an assesment. I was pleas a ntly surprised the process was thoroughly surprised with the friendly reception and knowledgeable personnel. Based on the findings during the assessment and discussion with the Elite Vein staff I decided to schedule four events (one per week). Having just completed the first treatment many of my concerns have been erased and I am confident that the remaining treatment session will go equally well. I have no reservations in recommending the Elite Vain Clinic.
They were just getting moved into a new facility so there were still boxes sitting around but everyone worked efficiently and everyone was very pleasant. The Dr. Was very honest about what he could and couldn't do. Unfortunately they couldn't help me but I would definitely recommend them to anyone needing anything involving veins.
Very friendly staff cool atmosphere great vibe with my girl up front. I’ll come back and leave another review at the end of my treatment not really big on reviews, but I will come back. The lady Dr I seen Stephanie made me feel more comfortable as I was very nervous, she explained everything in detail. Thank you so much.
I don’t have health insurance but I knew varicose veins run in the family so I decided to get a few veins looked at before they get worse. I’m glad I did. The Dr informed me that my veins aren’t draining optimally. The nurse was kind & gentle with the injections. Their cash rates for smaller veins are affordable & it’s worth getting your drainage checked out.
I haven’t had a chance to use the Clinic because Olga M took the time and compassionate care to recommend I have a different issue addressed first. She put me before the Clinic and as a result I found out I have something a lot more serious to be resolved first! Thank you Olga and Elite Vein Clinic
Everyone was so friendly and helpful. I didn't feel as though I was being rushed so they could get to next patient. Also I wanted to schedule with Phoenix location and they were helpful in getting my appointments made all at one time so I would not have a gap between treatments. Thanks you were wonderful!!!
After searching online, I found the right clinic to treat the pain in my legs. The staff is amazing. The Doctor performed the procedure excellent. Excelente equipo de trabajo. El Doctor tiene un gran conociento en el tratamiento de las venas. Respondio todos mis preguntas y el tratamiento no fue doloroso. Muy agradecida por la atencion y el tratamiento recibido en esta clinica.
The staff here is kind courteous and knowledgeable. And knowledgeable is what you want when you are trusting someone with a health care issue. Also there was no long unnecessary wait times. I appreciate when my time is respected. I recommend this team if you find yourself needing help in this area..
I had purchased a Groupon for Sclerotherapy. They did an ultrasound prior to the treatment and discussed future options to truly resolve the problem outside of the purchased treatment. I appreciated the thoroughness, kindness, and honesty of the entire staff. They provided me with the information needed to get my legs healthy again!

The Elite Vein Clinic care team

Support Throughout Your Vein Care

Elite Vein Clinic’s care team includes advanced practice providers, ultrasound professionals and Spanish-speaking staff.

Physician Assistant

Michelle Banuelos, PA-C

Michelle specializes in chronic venous insufficiency at Elite Vein Clinic. She brings a background in primary care and provides personalized care with Spanish-language support.

Fluent in Spanish

Michelle earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with honors from the University of Arizona and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at A.T. Still University in Mesa. She began her career in primary care before specializing in chronic venous insufficiency.

Visit the Clinic Team Page

Family Nurse Practitioner

Angelica Alcala, MSN, FNP-C

Angelica provides personalized vein care at Elite Vein Clinic. Her clinical background includes family medicine and care for acute and chronic conditions, supporting a broad approach to patient evaluation.

English & Spanish

Angelica earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, with honors from Northern Arizona University. She brings nearly a decade of healthcare experience and focuses on helping patients improve their vascular health and quality of life.

Visit the Clinic Team Page

You can request Spanish-language assistance when scheduling your visit.

Vein care close to home

Find Dr. Tam Chu in Avondale and Peoria

Schedule a vein evaluation with Dr. Chu at Elite Vein Clinic in Avondale or Peoria. Our team can help you choose a location and coordinate your visit.

Insurance & provider network

Insurance Plans & Provider Networks

Explore the insurance plans and provider networks below. Participation and benefits can vary by provider and plan, so our team can help confirm Dr. Chu’s participation and your coverage before your visit.

Medicare & Public Programs

Medicare

Medicaid / AHCCCS

CHAMPVA

American Indian Health

Aetna

Aetna Innovation Health

Aetna EPO

Meritain Health / Aetna Choice POS II

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

UHC Dual Complete

UHC Surest

UHC Golden Rule

UHC Navigate Plan

UHC Nexus Plan

UMR (UHC Choice Plus) / GEHA

UMR (Dignity Health Employee Plan)

UMR (HonorHealth)

UHC Community Plan (Arizona Physicians IPA)

Cigna

Cigna Local Plus / Curative

Mercy Care

Mercy Care / AHCCCS

Mercy Care RBHA

Mercy Care Advantage

Arizona Care Network (ACN)

Employers Health Network (EHN)

Intel Connected Care

Medica

Southwest Service Administrators

Sana Benefits

Humana

Oscar

Devoted Health

Gold Kidney Health Plan

Don’t see your exact plan or product listed? Contact our team to confirm provider participation and your benefits before your visit.

Provider FAQs

Questions About Dr. Chu and Your Vein Care

Learn what to expect at your visit, how symptoms are assessed and what helps guide your care options.
Your visit includes a review of your symptoms, medical history and concerns about your leg veins. Dr. Chu considers when symptoms occur and how they affect your daily activities. If further testing is appropriate, the findings can help guide a discussion of care options.
Yes. Leg heaviness, aching or swelling can occur without prominent surface veins. Dr. Chu can assess these symptoms and determine whether a vein-related cause should be investigated.
She considers your medical history, symptoms and physical examination. When indicated, duplex ultrasound can assess blood flow and identify venous reflux, when blood flows backward through valves that do not close properly. The findings help assess whether vein dysfunction may be contributing.
No. Some visible veins are mainly a cosmetic concern, while others may be associated with symptoms or underlying venous insufficiency. Dr. Chu evaluates their significance before discussing whether treatment is appropriate.
Recommendations depend on your symptoms, overall health, affected veins and ultrasound findings when available. Dr. Chu and the Elite Vein Clinic team can explain the options that fit the evaluation and discuss what each involves.
Yes. A new evaluation can help assess recurring swelling, discomfort or visible vein changes. Bring details of your previous procedures so Dr. Chu can consider your treatment history alongside your current symptoms.
Bring a current medication list and any records from prior vein evaluations or procedures. It also helps to note when your symptoms occur, what makes them better or worse, and any questions you want to discuss.
Leg pain and swelling can have causes beyond venous disease. If the findings do not suggest a vein-related problem, Dr. Chu and the care team can discuss next steps, which may include further medical evaluation or follow-up with another healthcare provider.

Patient education

Explore Vein Health Resources

Read about changes in your leg veins, symptoms worth discussing and the different approaches to vein care.

Understand how valve problems can affect blood flow and lead to symptoms over time.

Recognize leg changes that may be worth bringing up during a vein consultation.

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a Vein Consultation With Dr. Tam Chu

Contact Elite Vein Clinic to arrange your visit in Avondale or Peoria. Our scheduling team can help you get started.