ABOUT THE THYROID TOP DOCTORS DIRECTORY

The following listing includes recommended doctors and practitioners for your thyroid care.

Please note that being listed here in the Thyroid Top Doctors Directory doesn't necessarily mean a doctor is the right one for you. The doctor may be an empathetic and warm physician, but not open to working with drugs like Armour or T3 drugs. Or the doctor may be quite costly and not on insurance programs. Always call the doctor's office ahead of time to find out more about the doctor's philosophy, approach, costs, and other important factors before going in for your first appointment.

Please let us know if you have feedback about doctors listed here, or would like to recommend your doctor.

Apache Junction

Dr Korn, Long Life Medical, thyroid, chronic fatigue, viruses, cancer, 11518 E Apache Trail, Apache Junction AZ 85220, 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)

Chandler

Bilberto Leon, Naturopathic Physician, 1257 W. Warner #A1, Chandler, AZ 85224, 480-857-3484. “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)

Chandler

Dr. Sreedevi Reddy, Endocrinology, 655 S. Dobson Ste. 8115, Chandler, AZ 85224, 602-266-8463. A reader writes: “Dr. Reddy listens to everything I have to say, asks if I have questions, explains everything clearly, and is someone I refer to others all the time. She really puts me at ease! A good endocrinology doctor is hard to come by, and she has to be the best!” (Added 10/05)

Flagstaff

Randall Scott, Family Medicine, 1515 E. Cedar Ste. A6, 86004, (928) 779-5707, A reader writes: “Exceptional bedside manner and he listens to you and not just lab results.” (Added 6/05)

Gilbert

Dr Gary Knighton 201 West Guadalupe Gilbert, AZ 480-539-1855. A reader writes: "He has worked with me on my weight problem and has helped me tremendously. He is the most kind and caring Doctor that I have ever met. I am now on two meds, and I am starting to loose weight. If you THINK you have a thyroid problem, contact him. He has worked with me for a year and a half, gradually increasing my thyroid meds, never once getting frustrated. He is my hero! I am now loosing weight and I have so much more energy. I feel great!" (Added 6/03)

Glendale

Dr. Chet Monder, 5130 W. Thunderbird Rd, Glendale, Arizona, 85306, 602-439-9000. A reader writes: “Dr. Monder is great, he is always willing to see me even if I don't have an appointment he always calls back and checks all levels. He's great.” (Added 1/06)

Kingman

Dr. David Berkenbile, Thyroid/Wilson’s Syndrome, 1739 Beverly Suite 209, Kingman, AZ 86401. 928-757-1444 A reader writes: “This is the only doctor I have gone to in 5 years that I really think can help me. He suspects I have Wilson’s Syndrome, which I have suspected as well because of not responding fully to just T4 therapies. This is a man who understands and truly cares.” (Added 4/04) Another reader writes:
"Dr. Berkenbile focuses on bioidentical hormones of all types estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, testosterone, thyroid hormones and others. Dr Berkenbile uses an holistic approach to medicine." (Added: June 2004)

Another reader writes:
"Finally a doctor that actually listens. I've been so frustrated with doctors that just guess
and prescribe and don't take the time to really find out the problem. He really knows about thyroid
problems because he's lived it himself. HE IS A TOP DOC!!!!" (Added: June 2004)

Another fan:
"I am so thankful I got pointed in his direction. He is the first doctor in the 14 years that I have had my thyroid out that does the whole blood work instead of just the simple test,. I am so thankful to my Heavenly Father for putting him in my life. He is great. He does all he can to find out what is the matter with you!!!!!! " (Added: Dec. 04)

Yet another reader recommends Dr. Berkenbile:
“This doctor turned my daughter's life around with thyroid treatment! For the first time in many years, I was losing weight, too. Then he moved from Illinois to AZ. My sister-in-law is in AZ for 2 days and I have recommended that she make an appt. with him. And I'm going to go from Illinois to AZ to see him soon because I haven't been had a doctor since he left who understands CFIDS and thyroid problems like he did. He is a kind, knowledgeable and compassionate doctor.” (Added 6/05)

Another reader recommends Dr. Berkenbile:
“Compassionate, wonderful doctor who seems almost intuitive to the disease process” (Added 10/05)

Another fan of Dr. Berkenbile:
“He is very knowledgeable about all thyroid problems and knows what labs to order. He switched me to Armour right away and has advised me to look into bioidentical hormones instead of birth control pills. He also accepts insurance, and usually has appointments available within the week you call. I would definitely recommend traveling to go to his office; he is well worth the price of gas! I drive there from Phoenix!” (Added 10/05)

Mesa

Dr. Charlie Schwengel, Homeopathic and Natural Medicine, 1215 East Brown Road, Mesa, AZ 85203, 480-668-1448, www.Rhythmoflife.com. Dr. Schwengel has been doing homeopathic and natural medicine for 9 years and finds it works well. Dr. Schwengel believes that low thyroid can often be associated with low calcium and selenium levels; and iodine is inhibited by common additives to drinking water such as chlorine and fluorine.” (Added 4/04)

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

Kristin L. Hanson -- NO LONGER LISTED

Phoenix

Dr. Jill Kerr-Shoop, Family Medicine, Ray Road, Ahwatukee, Phoenix AZ 85044, 480-759-5151. "She LISTENS! She prescribed Armour my 1st visit. I think she's really good. Turned my life around very quickly. I'm a happy camper after several bad experiences with other local docs. :)"

Another reader recommends Dr. Kerr-Shoop:
“This Dr. does REALLY listen & understands! I asked her about Armour & she said she would use it if all else failed. She started me on Cytomel right off the bat, I was already on Levoxyl & had brought some of my labs with me. She has been having me take a blood test every month & evaluating it. Has changed my meds. each time & I am starting to FEEL BETTER for the first time in 25 yrs. Give her a try, I really like her.” (Added 6/05)

Another reader writes of Dr. Kerr:
“I found Dr Kerr on this web site and checked her out myself. At the time I was having a difficult time getting any doctor to listen to me. She listened to me and my issues with my Thyroid. She took me off of Synthroid and had me try Armour. It has worked great over the past several years although I have had to adjust the dose several times. She has taught me to listen to my body and allowed me to be adjust my meds according to my symptoms instead of blood test. She is up to speed with alternatives and practices both traditional an alternative methods. To top it all off she is nice!” (Added 6/05)

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. "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)

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

Dr Geoffrey Radoff: Homeopathic, 35th Ave and Greenway Rd. A reader writes: "Dr. Radoff is so knowledgeable about the latest treatments in all fields of the thyroid problem and will go the alternative route FIRST before he will prescribe anything else. He's so laid back and his bedside manner is awesome, he truly cares about you. He also is constantly attending seminars for alternative care in treating cancer patients. That seems to be a huge part of his practice. The staff is always friendly and make you feel comfortable. One consultation and you'll be tickled & completely satisfied --he's given back my energy and happiness!

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)

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/Scottsdale

S. Reddy, MD, 3522 N 3rd Ave Phoenix, 9745 N 90th Pl in Scottsdale, and 655 S Dobson in Chandler, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Chandler Arizona, 602 266 8463 Fax 602 266-0122. "I am SOOO impressed. I have heard so many endo horror stories I was ready for the worst today. My labs are normal but my problems are out of control. Dr. Reddy said that labs are a guide, symptoms are the key. She did a detailed exam, asked a lot of questions but she also asked me 2-3 times if I had any questions. Was there anything I wanted more info on. She does her own ultrasounds in the office. Labs are processed IN the office, no waiting for results. She really listened to me and addressed all of my concerns. She didn't just give me an Rx and send me on my way, she asked me if I was okay with that particular drug because she knew I had done my research. She's sweet, friendly, puts you at ease, and overall just nice." (Added Dec. 04)

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."

Prescott

Robert Myers -- NO LONGER LISTED

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!!"

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. Internal Medicine 6747 E. Thomas Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-941-4400. A reader writes: "She tested for my thyroid condition due to a combination of symptoms I was exhibiting. And I had only gone in for a sinus infection! She is very attentive." (Added 4/03)

Another reader writes:
Kathleen Gerace, Internal Medicine, 6747 E. Thomas Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, 480-941-4400. “Dr. Gerace found my thyroid cancer when no one else could. She was very attentive, ran a battery of tests (including some at my request) and made what other doctors have since called a "great catch." While some might call her abrasive (she's from New York), she doesn't sugarcoat things, asks insightful questions and is more than willing to answer any questions. She spent more than an hour with me -- almost unheard of in a doctor's office these days.” (Added 1/06)

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

Dr. William Nelson NMD-Naturopathic Medical Doctor, 4750 E. Union Hills Dr. #1064, Phoenix, AZ 85050, 480-612-5048, wdnelson@gmail.com 480-612-5048. In December 2002, Dr. Nelson became trained in the use of neurotransmitters for weight loss and treatment of a multitude of illnesses related to neurotransmitter deficiency. http://www.theelementsofhealth.com. A reader writes: "Why do I consider Dr. William Nelson a top doc? Dr. Nelson is truly naturopath "par excellence" who displays astounding medical knowledge and expertise. One of the main reasons I sought assistance from Dr. Nelson was because I suffered from hypothyroidism. My primary care physician and pharmacist tried to convince me that the pharmaceutical drug "Synthroid" was my only recourse in the treatment of my hypothyroid condition despite its side effects of heart palpitations and insomnia. When my husband heard the problems associated with the use of "Synthroid", he said, "No way! We are going to see Dr. Nelson." At that time, Dr. Nelson practiced in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and my husband had received his name from an employee at our local health food store. Although I was uncertain about naturopathic medicine, Dr. Nelson eased my hesitancies immediately regarding alternative health care. He spent the next 1 1/2 to 2 hours with my husband and me reviewing my health status as well as discussing and developing goals for my health care regimen. One of the first items of importance was to treat my low thyroid condition. Dr. Nelson prescribed "Armour Thyroid" and I am happy to report that I have not taken "Synthroid" since April of 2001. My basal body temperature continues to remain elevated in the normal range. In addition to treating my hypothyroid condition, Dr. Nelson has displayed his skill and mastery as a naturopathic medical physician by assisting me in regaining my health in the following ways: balancing menstrual irregularities; restoring adrenal function; detecting allergies and liver/gall bladder difficulties; controlling blood sugar; increasing pH levels; encouraging me to have my amalgam fillings removed; addressing emotional issues; and finally, aiding my weight loss endeavors through the safe and effective use of neurotransmitters. Under Dr. Nelson's supervision, I have experienced a weight loss of 78 pounds. I have never felt so healthy." (Added: June 2004)

Another reader writes:
"He is open to what I have to share about my condition. He listens. He explains patiently and in detail and is always open to questions. Very caring." (Added: June 2004)

Another reader writes:
"Dr. Nelson provides natural and functional care for the whole person. He encourages the patient to be fully involved in their own wellness and healthcare." (Added: June 2004)

Another reader writes of Dr. William Nelson:
“Dr. Nelson is the first of many doctors I have seen who actually listened to how I was feeling and was willing to get my feedback. Thanks Dr. Nelson!” (Added 6/05)

Yet another reader writes of Dr. William Nelson:
“For several years now I was experiencing a myriad of symptoms, fatigue, weight gain, always cold, low energy level, dry skin among others. I tried my family physician, who had blood tests run. The tests came back in the low-normal range and he offered me a weight loss prescription and basically said that's all he could do. I didn't search out other opinions for several years as I felt that maybe it was "just me". However, late in 2004 I knew it wasn't me. I did my research and through word of mouth found Dr. Nelsons name come up repeatedly. Last October I made an appointment and haven't looked back. He ran the proper blood tests and it showed hypothyroidism. We have made an adjustment to the medication and will continue to do so. My symptoms are not completely in balance but they are so much better. Dr. Nelson is patient and knowledgeable and expects the patient to be the driving force in his/her healing. He is there each step of the way, suggesting natural remedies and supplements for keeping the entire body in balance. I take natural T-3 and T-4 and have had no side effects. Dr. Nelson is progressive and understanding and all of the treatments are in harmony with your body.” (Added 6/05)

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, Internal Medicine, 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.”

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)

Tuscon

Dr. David Alster -- 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. “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)

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. 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)

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

Dr. Judy Hiell, NMD, Naturopathy, 3801 North Campbell Avenue, Suite D, Tucson, AZ 85719, 520.887.4287/520.887.0100, www.drjudynmd.com, A reader writes: “After being diagnosed with a thyroid nodule, being diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease, and going to one of the physicians listed here who was unwilling to give me Armour or another natural treatment, I sought a naturopath. Dr. Hiell was recommended to me by my chiropractor. My thyroid levels are now normal and I am feeling better than I have felt in years! Dr. Judy treats the whole person, not just a condition.” (Added 1/06)

Why is a Particular Doctor No Longer Listed?

Doctors who were previously listed here are removed for a number of reasons.

1. The doctor has requested that his/her listings be removed because: he/she does not agree with this site’s philosophy or patient-orientation; the practice is too busy and can’t accept new patients; the doctor does not feel comfortable handling complicated thyroid problems; the doctor did not agree with what was said in the patient recommendations; or the doctor said “take me off the list” and offered no explanation.
2. The doctor has moved, retired, or died.
3. The doctor has lost his/her license, or given up his/her license, and is no longer practicing medicine.
4. Patients have provided negative input about the doctor that is of sufficient concern that, in the opinion of the editor, the doctor should no longer be on the Top Thyroid Doctors List.

Thyroid Top Doctors would face legal concerns if we published specific information about why patients had negative opinions about doctors, or if we shared a doctor’s occasional ranting ”take me off” email, or if we publicized doctors with licensing problems. So please, if you see that a doctor has been taken off the list and want to know why, talk to the doctor directly. If you write to us to ask why a doctor was taken off the list, we’re sorry, but we won’t be able to answer you or share that information.

LATEST UPDATE:

IMPORTANT NOTE: Mary Shomon, the patients who have recommended these physicians and practitioners, or physicians and practitioners who have recommended/listed themselves make no guarantees or warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or validity of the information provided here. Mary Shomon, patients writing in to recommend their doctors, and the doctors/practitioners themselves assume no responsibility for any services provided by listed physicians or practitioners. It is your responsibility to investigate any physician with whom you plan to have a consultation, and you consult with physicians listed here expressly at your own risk.

Copyright © 2006, Mary J. Shomon. PO Box 565, Kensington, MD 20895. All rights reserved.