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Anthem

Jennifer Calvo, Naturopathic Doctor,43292 N. Vision Way, Ste 108, Anthem, AZ 85086, 623-551-0027 623-551-1768, www.eastwestihc.com, DrJen@eastwestihc.com

A reader writes:
"Dr. Calvo is awesome! I have "suffered" from Graves Disease and all the problems associated with not having a thyroid for over 16 years. Finally, after being treated by Dr. Calvo, I am able to function in my life again. She looked at my entire health profile and treated all my hormone imbalances with natural and safe bio-identical custom compounds designed specifically for me. Also, She researched and purchased several different brands of thyroid replacement such as Nature-Throid and Armour Thyroid to identify which my system would respond best to. She looked beyond the simple tests that all the other docs I had seen were willing to and provided me with a dose and a brand that worked well for me. When the local pharmacy discontinued carrying the Armour Thyroid, she started carrying it in her office so that her patients could continue using it. I thank you Mary for your work in educating and advancing the care and treatment of thyroid patients--I thank you, Dr. Calvo, for the new life you have given to me." (July 2008)

Chandler

Gilberto Leon, Naturopathic Physician, 600 S Dobson Rd #D - 33, Chandler, Arizona 85224, 480-857-3484. A reader writes: “He has helped me tremendously with my thyroid imbalances and treats them all naturally. I feel much better!”

Another reader is enthusiastic about Dr. Leon:
”He has been listed already but the accolades keep coming! I called at 11:30, had a return call at 12:15 that same day, he left his cell phone number for me to call him back and he scheduled me for 4 that afternoon. He immediately took me off of Levoxyl (my heart rate was through the roof!), did a 1 1/2 hour exam, LISTENED, and not only did the saliva test f or thyroid but another for hormones. He believes strongly in Armour and is SOOOOO knowledgeable and supportive. I walked in feeling helpless and walked out with new found hope and support. Side note: his fees are more than reasonable and WELL WORTH IT!” (added 1/04)

Another fan:
"I had my first visit with Dr. Leon today, and it felt so empowering to meet with a doctor who listened so completely and compassionately. I was taken seriously, and left with more information that I had before I came, a completely refreshing experience after dealing with a doctor who told me nothing. Dr. Leon does saliva testing which covers all the important thyroid and adrenal tests as well as reproductive hormones and other intolerances. I am grateful to have found this practice." (August 2007)

Another reader writes:
"In 2005, I found this website and found Dr. Leon. I started seeing and I haven't left him! He has been working with me with my thyroid issues as well as general wellness. He is very patient, knowledgeable and most importantly he listens to the patient! Instead of what my past endocrinologists have done--prescribe Synthroid and send me home--Dr. Leon took time to listen and make the adjusts. He is good general doctor as well. His staff is awesome and very accommodating. Dr. Leon is also staying up with the latest best practices in naturopathic medicine and offers a variety of services. Finally the best thing is that if his treatment isn't working, he doesn't mind referring the patient to a specialist! Now that's awesome." (May 2008)

Chandler

Dr. Sreedevi Reddy -- no longer listed (May 2008)

ORDER YOUR OWN THYROID BLOOD TESTS!

Take charge of your health by ordering your own blood tests without a doctor's order, through MyMedLab. With MyMedLab, you have access to medical tests provided by LabCorp, the same provider used by doctors and hospitals across the US. No appointment or no doctor's orders needed, with conventient locations near you. And you'll pay 50% to 80% less than the usual cost of these tests.

The results are confidential. And you can track changes in your results using MyMedLabs' free "Personal Health Record (PHR)" online. Of course, you'll need to review your results with your physician, but this allows you, the patient, to take the first steps toward getting the tests you need to live well!

Order Mary Shomon's Recommended Basic Thyroid Profile: Thyroid/TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody/TPO,Thyroid Antibody/Anti-thyroid AB

Order Mary Shomon's Recommended Followup Thyroid Profile: Thyroid/TSH, Free T4, Free T3

Note: Patient-ordered medical testing is not available to residents of NY, NJ or RI

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Cottonwood

Dr. Shaida Sina, NMD, Naturopathic Doctor, 851 South Main Street, Suite E, Cottonwood, AZ 86326, 928-649-0269/928-649-6484, http://www.gaiamedicine.com/, info@gaiamedicine.com. "Dr. Sina is an amazing healer in the Verde Valley who has had tremendous success working with patients requiring thyroid support." (August 2007)

Flagstaff

Vigil Holly K MD -- no longer listed (May 2008)

Flagstaff

Randall Scott -- no longer listed (October 2006)

Fountain Hills

Allyn Krieger-Fiedler, Naturopathic Doctor, 16650 East Hawk Drive, Fountain Hills, AZ, 85268, 480.816.1600. A reader writes: "Dr. Allyn was the first doctor I saw that actually helped me. She listens carefully and takes as much time as I need to make sure we are communicating clearly. I recommend her highly as a thyroid doctor, and as a truly helpful physician." (August 2007)

Gilbert

Dr Gary Knighton -- no longer listed, not currently treating thyroid patients

Glendale

Dr. Chet Monder -- no longer listed (December 2006)

Glendale

Radhika Vattikuti, MD -- no longer listed (October 2007)

Kingman

Dr. David Berkenbile -- moved to Missouri (December 2006)

Lake Havasu City

Frank Palmer Sweet N.M.D., Naturopath, 1731 Mesquite Ave Suite 5, Lake Havasu City, Arizona 928-453-9525, fpsweet@ctaz.com. A reader writes: "Treats Wilson's Syndrome and is very knowledgeable and conscientious. He is wonderful for the total health of patients." (June 2006)

Another fan:
"Dr. Sweet has been practicing in our area for many years. I started going to him in 4 months ago for hormones. He identified a Thyroid problem. He has great expertise in this area. I have lost 20 pounds and feel better than I have in my entire life." (August 2007)

Another reader writes:
"Dr. Sweet saved me. I suffered for 6 years going to several doctors who all basically said that my illness was depression or fake. Dr. Sweet was immediately able to diagnose my problem and now a year later I can say I feel better than I did when I was 20. I wanted to add that he is such a kind person too, I could not afford to pay every time, and he never worried about it and discounted his services so I could get the help I needed." (May 2008)

Mesa

Dr. Brard. 217 S 63rd St, Ste 105, Mesa, AZ 85206-6106, (480) 981-8088. A reader writes: "I have been seeing Dr Brard for about 4 years after switching from a "Phoenix Top Doc" who frequently put me off on his Nurse Practitioner, made me use his lab for bloodwork (which was more expensive) and generally was not worth the time and effort. Dr Brard takes his time, does a thorough history and physical, and is on top of all of the data regarding thyroids. He is professional and polite, and should be a great help to anyone with thyroid or endocrine problems who is looking for a caring doc." (October 2006)

Mesa

Dr Shena Korn, 6632 E Baseline Rd Suite 101, Mesa, AZ 85206 480-354-6700. A reader writes: "he tested me for things other doctors did not...found out not only do i have a thyroid problem but other problems as well...he is very caring and spends time explaining the problem and how to treat it...if your tired of not getting the help you need and getting the run around from other doctors he is the one to see..." (Added: June 2004)

Mesa

Dr. Lisa Maturo, N.M.D., 134 W. Pepper Place Mesa AZ 480-615-5680 www.maturomedical.com.

A reader writes: "I was very lucky to find Dr. Lisa Maturo for low thyroid function. My symptoms were low energy, dry skin, low temperature, sensitive to cold and hair loss. Dr. Lisa was very well informed and refreshingly attentive and kind. I thought her fee's were quite reasonable. Other doctors that I tried focused on my TSH and never ordered a T3 which was low. My condition has been corrected with Armour Thyroid and I couldn't be more thankful!! With your help, I hope that more doctor's will be encouraged to study this common and disabling disorder." (June 2006)

Another fan:
"Dr. Maturo was great, she is a very good listener and really dug into my issues when other doctors did not. My bloodwork was borderline on showing low thyroid and she developed a treatment plan that has helped me tremendously with feeling better and losing weight too." (March 2009)

Another recommendation: "Dr. Lisa Maturo helped me with all of my hormone and weight issues!" (March 2009)

Mesa

Dr. Charlie Schwengel -- No longer listed (March 2009)

Payson

Judith Hunt, MD, General practice/internist/primary care, 708 Couer D'Alene, Payson, AZ, 85541, 928 474 1714. A reader writes: "Dr. Hunt is two years ahead of my curve in being diagnosed with hypothyroid herself. She had already been down the path for herself, and did not respond well to traditional treatments either. She therefore took all of the things I was saying quite seriously, and persisted in believing my concerns even after the ENT she initially sent me to tried to say the problems were all in my head. Dr. Hunt has been willing to manage my medications, and trusted me after I said that the Unithroid that my endocrinologist gave me made me deathly ill and non-functional. We are working together to stabilize me on a combination of Cytomel and Armour." (August 2007)

Phoenix

Doug Callahan, D. O. Family Practice 2927 North 7th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 85308 602-406-3153. A reader writes: "Dr. Callahan listens to his patients. I sent him a copy of your book and asked him to read it, and now we are both on the same page insofar as my thyroid treatment plan. I have a son and daughter with hypothyroidism too, and he is fantastic. He had no problem starting me on Cytomel along with my existing dose of Synthroid, and we have tweaked the doses over the past year to where I feel better now than ever in my life." (Added 4/03)

Phoenix

Ralph J. Luciani, DO, MS, Integrative Medicine, 1530 W. Glendale Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021 Phone: 602-242-4024 www.Drluciani.com, health@drluciani.com.
Note: Note: As of June 2008, this doctor may not be accepting new patients


"Dr. Luciani is the only doctor I have ever had that listened to all my symptoms. He believes in, and treats subclinical hypothyroidism. He doesn't treat by the TSH but checks basal temperature and also tests for autoimmune thyroid disease and reverse T3. He prefers to use the most natural Armour Thyroid and not synthetic T4. He has written an article on the various ways thyroid hormone is not working well, and it is available on his website. He also explains how toxins in the system can block the thyroid hormone from cells even with normal lab work." (Added Dec. 04)

Another reader writes:
"Really cares about patients, listens ." (Added June 2005)

A reader writes:
“After being on Synthroid for 12 years and not getting any better, then visiting a "famous" doctor/author in Houston, I was told about Dr. Luiani by a friend. He put me on Armour during my first visit, and switched me to bioidentical hormones. After two months, I am finally starting to feel better, and am finally losing weight. He will be checking me for other problems as well, because he believes in treating the entire person, as naturally as possible. He is a GREAT listener and is very compassionate.” (Added 1/06)

Another reader writes:
"Dr Luciani has helped me more than any other Dr. and believe me I have been to plenty. He has helped me regain my health by looking at the whole picture and how my body also reacts to toxins in the air, home and food. I am so thankful to have found Dr Luciani. I am beginning to feel human once again. He listens to me and my complaints and then tackles one at a time. Thank you Dr Luciani!” (Added 1/06)

A reader writes:
"I had a total thyroidectomy in 2001 and my life has been a total nightmare ever since. My surgery was in Dallas and my surgeon told me when I moved to Phoenix to find the "best endocrinologist I could find". I have been going to the local "top doc" for 4 long years. In that time I have developed high cholesterol, insulin resistance, high homocysteine levels, brain fog, hair loss, hearing loss, loss of half my eyebrows not to mention gaining THIRTY LBS. I read what others on this site said about Dr. Luciani and all I can say if RUN DO NOT WALK to this kind, intellectual caring physician. He switched me to Armor thyroid, prescribed bio-identical hormones, told me what over-the-counter items to buy to cure my insulin resistance and in short, has changed my life!!! I feel great and have lost 5 1/2 lbs after only a month on this regime (which he changes each time you go in like a "mad scientist" He will spend all the time you want, answer all your "dumb" questions and actually knows what he is doing!!! What a refreshing thing after putting up with a doctor who never listened to how I felt, wouldn't give someone with NO THYROID T3 medication and really didn't care about anything except his hook up with the Synthroid folks . Shame on him and KUDOS to Dr. Luciani who took the time and research to figure out how to actually HELP his patients. Thank you so much!!!!" (Added Apr 06)

A reader writes:

"He listens. He also treats subclinical hypothyroidism by your basal temperature. He is open-minded, if one type of thyroid hormone doesn’t work hell use another, including Armour thyroid hormone."

Another reader recommends Dr. Luciani
"He says TSH testing is misleading, especially once a patient is on exogenous (oral) thyroid medication. Dr. Luciani fully understands you can have completely normal T3, T4, and TSH lab results, and yet still be completely hypothyroid. Dr. Luciani treats the PATIENT, not her lab tests. Dr. Luciani also prefers to use Armour thyroid as opposed to synthetic levothyroxine. In addition, Dr. Luciani recognizes that toxins can prevent thyroid hormone from reaching the cells, leavint the patient with many hypo symptoms even if she has normal labwork. Dr. Luciani focuses on your symptoms, NOT your labwork." (Added 6/03)

Phoenix

Paul M. Petelin, MD General Surgeon 500 West Thomas Road, Suite 980, Phoenix AZ 85013 (602) 406-8750. A reader tells us, “This excellent surgeon operated on my sister (thyroid cancer) and cleaned up the mess a previous surgeon had made. He removed my thyroid and left me two functioning parathyroids. His patients do not have complications. I had no problems with the surgery and am healing well. My anesthesiologist told me Dr. P is the finest surgeon he has ever seen - quick, sure and knowledgeable. He also happens to be a caring, attentive, pleasant, easy-to-talk-to, nice man.”

Phoenix

John Raines, Head and Neck Surgeon, 333 E. Virginia Ave. Ste 101, AZ, 85004, 480 948-2056. A reader writes: “Dr. John Raines performed my thyroid surgery. He did an excellent job, and I was able to leave the hospital early the next morning with no complications and no pain. The incision healed nicely and is now barely noticeable. I had read that this type of surgery could injure the recurrent laryngeal nerve that controls the vocal cords, and I was afraid of losing my voice. I also expressed my concerns about possible damage to the parathyroid glands that regulate calcium levels in the blood. He patiently listened to and answered all my questions, explaining in detail everything I wanted to know. Both my voice and calcium levels survived the surgery thanks to his capable skills. He has a nice bedside manner that made me feel at ease and confident that I was in good hands. If I had to have another head or neck surgery, I would want him to do it. I highly recommend him to anyone needing thyroid surgery.” (Added 6/05)

Another fan:
"Dr. John Raines (Otolaryngology) is the doctor for our 6-year old son who had to have his tonsils and adenoids out, as well as cauterizing several vessels in his nose. He (and his staff) was incredible and I've recommended him to several people. He is a doctor who listens to the patient and has a wonderful bed-side manner with his patients. He was terrific with our son and made him feel so comfortable before and after his surgery (including us). His office staff is equally as wonderful which also makes a big difference in a doctor's care and recommendation." (August 2007)

Phoenix

Dr Konrad Kail, Thyroid, 13832 N. 32nd St., Ste. C2-4, Phoenix, AZ 85032, 602-493-2273, kkail@cox.net A reader writes: "Dr Kail has just recently completed a clinical study... showing that TSH and other blood measurements are not useful in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism. He has creating a patented approach to predict hormone balance using brachial reflexes." (Added Apr 06)

Phoenix/Mesa/Tempe/Scottsdale

Grant W. Heinz, 602-833-4402. A reader writes: "My decompression specialist is a wonderful young man whose wife went through all the vague-easily-labeled-hypochondriac-like symptoms before she was diagnosed herself with Graves disease. He has first-hand knowledge of the disease. As far as the graves eye disease, he wrote papers on it when he was at Indiana U. After that he went to Saudi Arabia to work with a doc who felt it was his mission in life to care for Graves eye disease patients. So with a background like that, I was lucky enough to fall into his care. The Universe has guided me in that way since the beginning. His name is Grant Heinz and he has offices in He has even called me at work to ask if I had an appointment with the cataract surgeon. He' very right-hemisphered and innovative. When he did my decompression surgery, he did not follow the typical procedure of removing the floor of the orbit up through the nasal passage because he felt in my case, the eyes would have even more problems being level. He was right. If he had his way, and the money, he would open a clinic just for Graves eye disease patients. Unfortunately, he doesn't seem to have the business sense many docs do, which makes him all the better in my book. I am a referral patient for him when another has worries or concern."

Phoenix

Dr. Shahrzad Orona, NMD, Naturopathic Doctor, Naturopathic Family Care 13832 North 32nd Street #126, Phoenix, AZ 85032, 602-493-2273, www.4wecare.com / 4wecare@gmail.com. A reader writes: "Dr. Orona has been an incredible asset to my thyroid treatment! She is a provider with the Naturopathic Family Office in North Phoenix, where 6 Naturopathic Doctors, a professional counselor, and many other therapies take place. I was able to work Dr. Orona extensively for my thyroid concerns after she recognized a pattern in my fatigue issues and thinning hair. She uses a variety of different techniques to determine the proper treatment, based on medical history, Thyroflex testing, blood results, and a Wilson's Protocol, and then decides which treatment is best for my individual issues, which I truly appreciate as I believe everyone's bodies run on different needs. She is incredible to speak with, spending 45 minutes to an hour on every visit if needed to discuss not only my thyroid, but my general health concerns and all aspects of life. Her staff is awesome, and very friendly, and I was surprised to learn that they do complimentary insurance billing for my out of pocket expenses, which has helped me to get reimbursement that I did not expect! I have been so impressed by her extensive knowledge and concern over my well-being, that I have recommended all of my family to see her, including my daughter for pediatric care. She is excellent with children, and pediatrics is one of her other specialties. When she is out of the office she recommends other doctors in the office so that I do not have to wait (which is awesome!) and they have all been very good to work with and keep her in-tune with anything I am doing from their recommendations. Overall I would recommend Dr. Orona or any of her other doctors for any issue, especially thyroid!" (May 2008)

Phoenix

James Nichols MD -- no longer listed (May 2008)

Phoenix

Joan Bailey -- no longer listed

Phoenix

Kristin L. Hanson -- NO LONGER LISTED

Phoenix

Dr. Jill Kerr-Shoop -- no longer listed / moved (May 2008)

Phoenix

Dr Geoffrey Radoff -- no longer listed

Phoenix/Scottsdale

S. Reddy, MD -- no longer listed (May 2008)

Phoenix

Dr. William H. Higgins, Osteopath/DO, 8619 N. 35th Avenue, Suite 3, Phoenix, AZ, 85051, (602) 249-0999.

A reader writes: "Dr. Higgins has replaced Dr. Kareus at Minor Family Practice Group. Dr. Higgins also writes an Armor Thyroid RX for patients...and is very caring!" (June 2008)

Phoenix

Michael Beckley PA-C, 13838 S 46th Place #320, Phoenix, AZ, 85044, 480-759-5151 Fax 480-940-8649 www.ahwatukeefamilymedicine.com, mikebeckleypa@hotmail.com

A reader writes:
"Mike Beckley, the PA with Ahwatukee Family Medical Center is who to see in the southeast valley if you have hypothyroidism. It wasn't until I saw him when he was with Dr. Jill Kerr that I understood my condition and all the options out there. He will draw pictures and presents the options of Synthroid, Armor, of compounded medicines and which might be best for you. I love Mike and Dr. Nichols because they treat you like a family member. I've seen many endocrinologists and a few PCP's in the Phoenix area, and I will never leave this practice. I recommend them to all my friends." (June 2008)

Prescott

Dr. Robert Upchurch, naturopathic, 1000 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott -- AZ. 86301 520-445-1999. A reader writes: "He listens and then gives you his time & careful consideration of treatment. He also believes that "natural" thyroid medication is best for treatment. I just went through a "thyroid storm" and the MDs I first went to see put me on several high blood pressure meds -- of which I was having terrible reactions to. But instead of taking me off the meds. -- they upped the dosages and added more on top. I had gone to Dr. Upchurch in the past before moving two hours away from where he's located -- but when I was getting worse instead of better -- I e-mailed him asking his opinion -- and his immediate response was for me to tell him all that had been happening and all the meds. I was on. Finally 30 days ago -- I was able to return and stay up! in Prescott so that I could be near him and receive his treatment and advice as I withdrew from all the blood pressure meds. and bring my blood pressure down naturally and by diet correction--back to proteins and low carbs. In the beginning of my treatment by Dr. Upchurch -- he had me tested for diabetes -- of which we found out that I have -- thus between the thyroid storm and previously undiagnosed diabetes -- started the high blood pressure escapade!! The MDs had not done any testing for diabetes -- just put me on high blood pressure meds!!"

Prescott

Joel Martin, PhD Nutritional Medicine and Immunology, 220 S. Lynx Creek RD, Prescott, Az, 86303, Ph/Fax: 9287170056. Dr. Joel Martin writes in to make patients aware of his approach. "I believe that listening to a patients symptoms are at times more important than what most standardized test reveal due to standards that need serious updating. Currently I believe that there are thousands of woman in this country who have misdiagnosed thyroid problems. I'm a Nutritional Immunologist who became truly focused on this problem because of my wife. Hypothyroidism almost destroyed her and had been misdiagnosed by Mayo Clinic. I treated my wife with subtle T3 time released therapy. T3 is rarely tested and often over looked by most traditional endo docs. Most Docs are trained to look and treat T4. Anyway, with all humility, I am here to help those who know their body and are tired of the arrogant and closed minded approach to medicine at the expense of their lives!" (Added Dec. 2006)

Prescott

Dr. Lori Barnes, Naturopathic Doctor, 810 W. Gurley Ave, Prescott, AZ 86305, 928-445-1999. A reader writes: "Dr. Barnes is willing to manage a patients thyroid condition, not just based on tests but how they feel. I know I feel bad when my TSH level goes above 2, but my previous doctor refused to do anything unless my TSH level was above a 4 (which the lab says is normal). Dr. Barnes is willing to adjust my medication when I need it, and to try compounding, time-released, T3/T4 combinations...anything that will work best for me. Highly recommend thyroid patients see her if their doctors won't work WITH them." (May 2008)

Prescott

Robert Myers -- NO LONGER LISTED

Scottsdale/Fountain Hills

Dr. Allyn Krieger Fiedler, NMD Naturopathic Medical Doctor 16650 East Hawk Drive, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 480-816-1600, fiedler@amug.org. A reader writes, “She is a very knowledgeable, caring, brilliant physician who will work to help even if the case is difficult. Dr. Krieger Fiedler helped me with quantities and subtle changes in the Armour Thyroid that really worked. I have known her for over four years to be a person with integrity and the courage to do her best. Her care has made a big improvement in my health.”

Dr. Krieger-Fiedler’s phone number has been changed:
”Would you please be so kind as to change my phone number from 602-837-1400 to 480-816-1600. I am still in the same location but Phoenix added 2 new area codes due to explosive growth. A big thanks for your web site - you are truly helping a lot of people!!!” Dr. Allyn Krieger Fiedler (added 1/04)

Scottsdale

Hope Farner, Natural Medicine, 6207 N. Cattle Track, Suite 4, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, 480-905-1181. Email: mindpowerandyourhealth.com
She gives in-depth consideration to all endocrine conditions and conditions triggered by endocrine abnormalities. (Added 4/04)

Scottsdale

Kathleen Gerace, D. O. -- no longer listed

Scottsdale/Mesa/Phoenix

Ali Ghafouri -- M.D., Surgeon, 833-9100. A reader writes: "Dr.Ghafouri is an oculoplastic surgeon -- which means that he specializes in reconstructive surgery around the eyes. He was recommended to me by my endocrinologist because of Dr. Ghafouri's expertise in treatment of patients with thyroid eye disease. During my initial visit -- he spent more than an hour with me going over different treatment options to correct the appearance of my eyelids and eyes. having had this condition for more than 15 years and two previous surgeries -- I thought I was deformed for life. Dr. Ghafouri not only gave me hope but also delivered. I had reconstructive surgery on my eyelids. It has totally changed my appearance. I no longer have the protruding eyes and my eyelids are perfect. Dr. Ghafouri is a highly skillful doctor and I would recommend him anyone. It was blessing that I met him."

Scottsdale

William Nelson NMD - NO LONGER LISTED (July 2006)

Scottsdale

David Parrish -- NO LONGER LISTED

Scottsdale

Dr John Raines, Ear Nose Throat Surgeon, 602-252-6266 with offices in Phoenix and Scottsdale. "He is the surgeon who operated on me for thyroid cancer. He also did the FNA which is how I was diagnosed. He is kind and gentle and he is honest. He has a nice bedside manner. And he did an excellent job. He is highly regarded and is always voted as one of Phoenix's top docs. You can not even see the scar on my neck. I am a nurse and I have spoken to other Docs and he has a high reputation with his peers as well. And not to mention that 6 years ago he removed my sons tonsils and he is just as great today as he was then. I highly recommend him. There is sometimes a wait in his office but he is worth the wait."

Another recommendation "My GP told me I needed my thyroid removed. Dr. Raines said that was not true, it could be managed quite well with meds. He is not surgery happy but will certainly do surgery if needed. He is sweet, kind, and seems very good at what he does. The down side is that he is very fast, appt from beginning to end was 10 minutes and that included scoping my throat. However I do feel if I have a question that I may think of later, he would be open to a phone call. If I ever have to an any type of ENT surgery, he's the only person I would go to." (Added Dec. 04)

Scottsdale

A reader recommends holistic doctor Debi Smolinski-- N.M.D. Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center, 8010 East McDowell Road, Scottsdale-- AZ 85257, 480- 970-0000. "Dr. Smolinski spent over an hour with me on my first visit. She recorded all of my ailments and asked me how I wanted to be treated. When I have asked her to be more aggressive-- she has complied -- adjusting dosages of Armour-- or adding new dietary supplements-- or trying home remedies like applying cold and heat to throat -- which did bring down the swelling. She knows her body chemistry and nutrition-- and has helped me work out a do-able diet plan -- I lost 15 pounds in 3 months."

Scottsdale

Gene Carsia, General Practice, Bell Rd. / 64th St., AZ, 85254, (480)948-7843. A reader writes: “I was very upset with the traditional endocrinologists. Dr. Carsia cares that you feel well for what is normal for you. He is not closed minded to any meds and under his treatment I am pregnant with my third. The only drawback is that you have to pay first and then bill insurance and it is on a walk in basis.” (Added 6/05)

Scottsdale

Linda Wright, MD, 7418 E. Helm Drive., AZ, 85260, (480) 483-8986, drlindawright.com. Dr. Linda Wright wrote in to recommend her practice to prospective patients. “Practicing holistic medicine for more than 25 years, dealing with thyroid disorders holistically all that time. Current practice focuses on treatments for internal medicine problems using bioidentical hormones as well as treating pain with trigger point injections and a special stretching program. Vast experience with thyroid disorders of all types.”

Another reader writes:
I recommend Dr. Wright to women (and men) who feel anything from "tired" to "extreme illness with no hope". I lost my thyroid 6 years ago, pituitary gland 3 years ago, leaving my adrenal glands empty and incapable of keeping me alive much longer. I crawled into her office after Endocrinologists could do nothing for me due to lack of knowledge. To make a long story short, she took a cortisol level and BAM! I had no level so one would think that one of the 40 prior other physicians (before finding Dr. Wright) that I went to looking for help would have included this simple test when doing all the other blood testing I had done. Although Dr. Wright found the cause and sent the results to my endo and offering to work with him, my unique problem was challenging for any doctor. BUT... "any doctor" did not want to invest the time in getting me well. They all put me on Synthroid and synthetic hydrocortisone (the 2 drugs necessary to keep me alive) and then not want to fill out any disability forms and sending me back to work! I couldn't function, was in pain, swollen to extremes, severe and I mean SEVERE nausea, ect... Dr. Wright to this day has continued to study, attend conferences, classes, research, network, and devote herself to helping me and others going down the hormone deficiency road. I feel that God put her in my life because if not for her.... I wouldn't be here telling my story. (May 2008)

Scottsdale

Dr. Daniel Duick, Endocrinologist, 9745 N 90th Pl Ste B, Scottsdale, AZ, 85258, (602) 266-8463. "I lived with hypo symptoms and borderline blood work for TEN YEARS until I found Dr. Duick - he listened to me, diagnosed Hashimoto's and immediately began treatment with synthroid. I'm a new person! (August 2007)

Scottsdale

Dr. Christianson, Holistic/complementary/alternative MD, Scottsdale, AZ.

"I went to Dr. Christianson because I had fainted twice. He had me fill out a 5 page history with a wide range of symptoms and history. He quickly realized that I had hypothyroid due to cold hands/feet, low blood pressure, and fatigue. I had no idea any of those symptoms were even related and I wouldn't have brought them up if he hadn't asked. He is also testing me for Cortisol/Stress levels to make certain that he is treating the correct condition. He is a holistic doctor that believes in finding the problem instead of suppressing the symptoms. He actually wrote me a prescription to read this book. He prescribed Armour but is not opposed to other synthetic drugs if they are the best for me. He truly cares and is very knowledgeable on the subject. He has a genuine interest in overall health. Although my insurance doesn't cover this holistic doctor. But it is well worth the money knowing that I have someone fighting to get me back to normal! I highly recommend him for any type of treatment...not just thyroid issues." (August 2007)

Scottsdale

Genene Bekele, Endocrinologist, 11111 N. Scottsdale Rd.#240, Scottsdale, 85253, 602-569-6470. "Dr. Bekele gave me the answers that I was looking for, and told me so I could understand. Great bedside manner. I have Hashimoto's Thyroiditis." (August 2007)

Scottsdale

Dr. John Robinson, www.sottopelletherapy.com. Dr. John Robinson has nominated himself, writing in: "I am a naturopathic physician that works in a very busy practice that focuses on bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. My major demographic is menopausal women and I inevitably see many hypothyroid patients, most of whom have been diagnosed And treated with Synthroid ineffectively. I found it necessary to explore the reasons behind how much hypothyroidism I was seeing and why the patients that were supposedly treated for it suffered from all of the classical symptoms related to the condition." (May 2008)

Scottsdale

Atul Lalani, Endocrinology Institute 9700 N. 91st St., Suite B220, Scottsdale, AZ, 85258 480) 323-4800

A reader writes:
"He is extremely thorough! He found a very small cancer in my thyroid and treated it swiftly and working towards regulating me now. I believe he saved my life." (July 2008)

Another fan:
"After 4 years of declining health and unexplained weight gain, I was recently diagnosed with Hashimoto's Disease by Dr. Lalani I was almost at the point of accepting my health conditions as fate when I was referred to Dr. Lalani. He was so incredibly thorough, and listened with a professional and caring ear as I described my symptoms. The office has a lab, ultrasound machine, bone density scanner and does the biopsy in office which saved me a ton of time in the long run not having to be referred elsewhere for these services and wait for results to come back. Within a month I was diagnosed and on my way to feeling better, I am slowly getting control of my health and my life again...it feels great!" (March 2009)

Scottsdale

Hayle Aldren MD, MD-H, General practice/internist/primary care,23425 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85255, 480 991-1769

A reader says:
"Thyroid, immune problems, hormone adjustment, energy loss. I consulted with Dr. Hayle Aldren because of a complex and very difficult to treat auto-immune thyroid disorder. Finally this disorder was effectively treated, Dr. Aldren has an extensive research background in internal medicine which helped immensely. Other medical conditions were also addressed including hormone imbalances. Dr. Aldren was by far the most effective physician I've run into, he is a bit pricey but well worth it." (July 2008)

Scottsdale

Kristina Rudgear, MD -- no longer listed (May 2008)

Snowflake

Dr. Dana Myatt, Family Practice/Holistic Medicine, Box 900, Snowflake, AZ 85937, 928-536-5691, www.drmyattwellnessclub.com/index.html A reader writes: “Dr. Myatt understands and treats true hypothyroidism, not just ‘conventional’ hypothyroidism. Phone consults make her available nationwide.” (Added 10/05)

Another fan:
A reader writes: "Cured my depression and overweight by getting me off Synthroid and into natural alternatives. I have never even met Dr. Myatt in person! We did this all over the telephone." (June 2006)

Tempe

Krishna M. Pinnamaneni, MD -- no longer listed

Tucson

Dawn Bantel, Naturopathic Medicine, 3432 E. Ft. Lowell, Tucson, AZ 85716 520-320-0008, naturdawn@hotmail.com. “Dr. Bantel is able to integrate natural and conventional medicine to create the best treatment tailored to one's unique needs.” (added 1/04)

Tucson

Dr. Jonathon Insel, Endocrinology. 6369 E Tanque Verde #150, Tucson, AZ 85715 520-886-5534.

Note: As of March 2009, he is reportedly NOT taking new patients with hypothyroidism.

“He has no problem saying when he doesn't have an answer and actually works with the patient in trying to find a solution. I have allergies to a lot of medications. He accepts the fact and works with me in resolving the problem rather laughing it off.” (added 1/04)

A reader writes:
“Dr. Insel is very receptive to discussion. I do research so I always come in with the newest papers and he has always been willing to discuss them in relationship to what I perceive my needs to be.” (Added 1/06)

Another fan of Dr. Insel:
“I second the recommendation for Dr. Insel. He is caring, sympathetic, really listens, and is willing to try different things. He lets me keep my TSH suppressed to almost 0 because I just feel better there. I love this doctor!” (Added 10/05)

Another fan of Dr. Insel:
"Dr. Insel found out I had thyroid cancer. I had an obvious lump on my neck and went to three specialist: an Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor, and two Endocrinologists, but they did not know I had cancer and refused to do biopsy even though I asked for. Two years later, I met Dr. Insel. Right on the first visit, he performed biopsy and found out I had cancer. Thank you, Dr. Insel." (October 2006)

Another fan:
"Dr. Insel is caring, really knows his practice, he listens and helps the patient, and works with the patient to find the best solution. I don't see myself seeing another doctor than him. Thank you so much Dr. Insel"(August 2007)

Another fan:
" I am a 30 year-old female and I was diagnosed with Graves' hyperthyroidism on Friday last week. After seeing my lab results, Dr. Insel knew I needed to be seen immediately, and was able to get me in the Tuesday after my labs. He was very kind, explained all of my treatment options, and answered every question I had." (March 2009)

Tucson

Dr. Bruce Sadilek, Naturopathic M.D. Hormones/Thyroid/Adrenals 268 East River Road Tucson, AZ 85704 520-297-9664/520-297-9633 www.drsadilek.com.

Note: Some readers report that this doctor is expensive, and his supplements are costly (March 2009)

A reader writes: "Dr. Sadilek is extremely kind, very knowledgeable about thyroid/hormonal and adrenal issues, and best of all, he listens and never patronizes. This man truly cares about his patients. I would recommend him without reservation to anyone and I am extremely picky. He also spends a lot of time with his patients and is very accessible. His office staff is wonderful as well. He prescribes all types of thyroid medication as well as supplements for adrenal support and natural hormone replacement. He is truly the best doctor I have ever seen, and I've seen a lot in four different states." (Added 11/02)

Another reader writes: "He is amazing- the best and most thorough doctor I have ever seen. He is willing to look at all
angles and consider different approaches and incredibly warm/empathetic." (Added: June 2004)
Another fan: "After going to numerous docs, Dr Sadilek was able to tell me that I a had potential heart problem(he was right), that the dosage of Armor I was on was too high (he was right) AND he felt something (swelling) in my thyroid that no other Dr.had.Professional, well run office. I am impressed so far!" (Added October 2007)

Tucson

Sandra Layman, ANP-C, Natural Hormone Replacement, 5350 E. Erickson Drive, AZ, 85712, 520-731-2333. A reader writes: “She is much more open and knowledgeable about every person having different needs.” (Added 6/05)

Tucson

Daniel Mihalyi MD, General practice/internist/primary care, 5350 E Erickson Dr, Tucson, AZ 85711, 520-888-3447, http://www.tucsonagemanagement.com/index.html / drmihalyi@earthlink.net. A reader writes: "Extremely knowledgeable, compassionate, understanding and thorough." (May 2008)

Tucson

Dr. Judy Hiell -- no longer listed

Tucson

Julia Lavei, Endocrinologist -- no longer listed

Tucson

Elizabeth "Lee" Vliet -- no longer listed

Tuscon

Dr. David Alster -- NO LONGER LISTED

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