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.

Bloomington

Lois Lambrecht, Internal/Holistic, 2401 N. Walnut, Bloomington, IN 47404, 812-333-0922. A reader writes: "Dr. L listens to her patients, considers their opinions re treatment alternatives, is personally warm & supportive, as well as being an excellent diagnostician." (Added 4/04)

Bloomington

Dr. Beth Florini, Family Practice, 482 S. Landmark, Bloomington, IN 47403, 812-355-3299. A reader writes: "Beth listens to her patients! Although she is not an endocrinologist, she has successfully treated my hypothyroidism. She prescribes Armour thyroid, and is willing to look at ALL the numbers of a thyroid panel, not just TSH. She is always willing to listen to new ideas, and often will suggest alternative therapies." (Added 10/05)

Chesterton/Valparaiso

Dr. Michael Manakas, D.O., Osteopathic Physician, 926-8664 Chesterton, IN 462-6192 Valparaiso, IN. A reader writes: "He is willing to work with a patient when that patient is interested in including "alternative treatments" received from another source. If a patient feels a certain brand or type of thyroid medication is the one that is best for him / her, he will let the patient try it. He takes time with his patients. He answers all of a patient's questions extremely well and is very thorough with his explanations. He is an excellent diagnostician."

Another reader recommends Dr. Manakas:
"This doctor is open minded. He has helped me to recover and make my way to enjoying life again. He is an excellent and caring doctor. I recommend all thyroid patients to go see him." (Added 10/05)

Evansville

Dr. Andrew C. Thieneman, Endocrinologist, Welborn Clinic, Evansville, IN 47713, (812)426-9422 "Dr. Thieneman is everything I could ask for in a doctor. Most importantlyhe takes the time to explain things to me...the radioactive iodine, theeffects, the time periods, the options..etc. I believe he presents to me the most up-to-date information and if helpful when i inquire about research i have done on my own. He also acted very quick when i first camein due to the progression of my disease. Dr. Thieneman should definitely be on the Top Doc List!"

Evansville

Dr. Mary M. Tadros, Endocrinologist, 519 Harriet Street, Evansville, IN 47710, 812-423-9699, "I was originally diagnosed with hyperthyroidism at age 13. My first doctor treated me with PTU, which caused major problems for me. After 3 years of horrible side effects from PTU, I stopped by to see Dr. Tadros. She diagnosed me with Hashimoto’s Disease. Because this went undiagnosed for so long, my thyroid has been destroyed and I will have to use hormone replacement therapy for the rest of my life. But, thanks to Dr. Tadros, my thyroid levels are in a normal range and many of my side effects are gone. I lived with hives constantly for 2 years, but Dr. Tadros took me off of the steroids I had been prescribed and told me never to use them again. Instead, she put me on Zyrtec. I now have a very close personal relationship with Dr. Tadros. I would highly recommend her to anyone!" (Added 4/04)

Evansville

Dr. Doris Best, Kenmore Drive, Evansville, IN, 812-471-8503. A reader writes: "Dr. Best took my thyroid symptoms seriously and took the time to not only help me, but to educate herself on thyroid disease. She knew all the labs to order. She is a wonderful, caring doctor and I would highly suggest anyone in the area to see her." (Added 10/05)

Evansville/Newburgh

Dr. Gregory Toothman, Family Practice, 4107 Gateway Blvd. Newburgh IN 47630 812- 858-6740 Fax 812-858-6615 "Dr. Toothman is the best doctor I have ever had! He listens is open to new ideas and takes time with his patients. The only downside to this is that he may be running behind for his appointments because he really cares and spends more time with you than the insurance companies would probably like! Unlike my previous doctor he does not want to only treat my symptoms -- chronic fatigue and fibro-type symptoms but wants to go to the root and find out why I feel so tired and achy. After a hair analysis and a Candida culture --ordered from Great Smokies Labs he found an active yeast infection and high mercury and aluminum levels in my body. I just started on Armour thyroid since my T4 and T3 are a bit low and my reverse T3 is high --may be blocking receptors for T3 . So far I am impressed. He is open to herbal natural nutritional therapies too. I am so relieved to have found Dr. Toothman. Insurance companies may not reimburse for Great Smokies Lab tests but they are very useful and worth the money IMO."

Evansville

Ronald Kimberlin, Endocrinology, 3801 Bellemeade Avenue Suite 200C, Evansville, IN 47714, 812-485-1783, "This doctor has a caring, careful, calm manner. He bases treatment on symptoms and blood work. He is open to prescribing Armour. He asks relevant questions about other possible health problems to stimulate your thinking for the next visit." (Added Dec. 04)

Ft. Wayne

Dr. Ashok Kadambi, M.D., F.A.C.E, Endocrinology, 4646 W. Jefferson Blvd., Suite 100, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, 46804, (260) 436-1248/ Fax (260) 436-7968. "Dr. Kadambi treats according to how a patient is feeling, will prescribe Armour, checks adrenals, believes in using supplements such as selenium, is very caring and listens to ME. I feel he takes a great interest in treating his patients, no problem is minor to him."

Another recommendation:
"Dr. Kadambi tested me thoroughly and regularly. He was the first to find I had Hashimoto's and has treated my disease aggressively. He asks me how I FEEL and believes me. He and his staff are knowledgeable and professional. I would recommend them highly." (Added Dec. 04)

A reader writes:
"Dr. Kadambi tested me thoroughly and regularly. He was the first to find I had Hashimotos and has treated my disease aggressively. He asks me how I FEEL and believes me. He and his staff are knowledgeable and professional. I would recommend them highly." (Added: Dec. 04)

Another reader writes:
"After years of not knowing what I had and being treated with incorrect treatments for hypothyroidism, Dr. Kadambi and his partner Dr. LaSalle have properly diagnosed my condition as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis which periodically flares. They are committed to reaching the proper diagnosis and developing the proper treatment plan. With their help, all the pieces of my medical puzzle have fallen into place and I now have a complete picture of what, why, and how to treat it. They're the best!" (Added 6/05)

Another reader recommends Dr. Kadambi:
"Dr. Kadambi takes a natural approach to treating thyroid issues. He listens to your symptoms and asks a lot of questions. He has restored my quality of life." (Added 10/05)

Another fan of Dr. Kadambi:
"Dr. Kadambi actually cares about how you feel and does what it takes to help you feel well." (Added 10/05)

Fort Wayne

Dr. Peter Jakacki, Family Practice and OB, Dupont Rd, Ft. Wayne, IN. A reader writes: "Yeah for Jakacki. He is top notch!!!! He discovered my Hashimoto's. He is a chiropractor as well as a strong biochemist. He also uses quality testing labs such as Spectracell and Doctor's Data. He recently diagnosed my daughters medical problems when two trips to the emergency room at a top 100 hospital left us with big medical bill, unnecessary procedures and no diagnosis. He is a top doctor and a wonderful human being. Just be prepared to wait (even 4 hours)." (Added Apr 06)

Fort Wayne

Myra Moneva, Endocrinology, Lutheran Hospital Heart Center, Fort Wayne, IN, 260-432-2297. A reader writes:"Found my nodules while they were still tiny and prescribed Armour." (Added Apr 06)

Highland

Carolina V. Ocampo MD, General Practitioner, 3100 45th St., Highland, IN 46322-3289, 219-923-4611. A reader writes: "Doctor Ocampo is bright, kind, and a very good listener. Regarding treatment of hypothyroidism, she believes that making the patient feel better is the most important goal." (Added Apr 06)

Indianapolis

Dr. James Edmondson, MD, Internal Medicine & Endocrinology, 550 N. University Blvd., Rm. 2180, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, 317-274-7577, jedmond@iupui.edu. Dr. Edmondson describes himself as a "been around the block a few times, Dr." I have been through a few doctors trying to treat Graves' disease. I am so pleased to have Dr. Edmondson. His approach is patient centered. He listens to my concerns and symptoms first, goes over the lab results and explains things in detail. He takes time with you as a patient! His information is up-to-date and consistent with research I have done on my own. I am not treated based solely on statistics, conventionality, or Doctor's convenience. Dr. Edmondson is respectful, personable and willing to work with you! He is absolutely a "Top Doc"!" (Added 6/02).

Another reader recommends Dr. Edmondson:
"I have been struggling with my hypothyroid symptoms and weight gain for 2 and a half years. None of the Doctor's I had seen would take me seriously. They threw dangerous diet drugs and some skeptical looks at me and dismissed me as fat and lazy! That was more depressing than the weight and the symptoms themselves. I almost started to believe them. Then I read in this website about a Doctor who would listen and treat me with respect. What a difference a day makes! I saw Dr. Edmondson yesterday and he is fabulous! He spent so much time examining me and explaining my symptoms to me that I felt like I had hope for the first time EVER! He prescribed my new med's without hesitation and I know I am on my way to feeling normal and happy again! What a great Doctor. if you can, go see him...you won't believe the difference!!" (Added 2/03)

Another reader writes:
"He has always taken an interest in my condition of Hyperthyroid or Graves Disease. Just when I thought it was safe to go to a doctor (new in our community), I slapped myself on the face because that doctor didn't know how to begin to treat me. He didn't even try to put me on medicine, even though I had symptoms of Graves Disease. He just kept telling me to go for blood work and although the blood work indicated the scale of "normal" thyroid was just "a little bit" out of "norm" as this doctor put it, I was losing my hair, I had incredible body aches, I couldn't sleep at night, etc. I had no choice but to go back to Dr. Edmondson and immediately he put me back on Tapazole and has been monitoring my condition ever since. He is a Godsend; he is the only one I will allow to treat me, unless he would recommend someone else. I will never make the decision of seeing another "specialist" without making sure that this is the right decision to make." (Added 4/03)

More praise for Dr. Edmondson:
"I don't believe there is a better doctor out there than Dr. Edmundson. Fifteen years ago I was diagnosed with a rare cancer for which I was referred to Dr. Edmundson. Thanks to him I am alive today. He takes his time with his patients, explains everything and anything to you, and I feel he cares deeply. He has a very good sense of humor. I owe my life to him due to his kindness, caring, and his knowledge of his work which saved me. Anytime I have a question on anything or am concerned he has always been there. In my opinion I would trust him with my life...I did. I am still here to write about it." (added 1/04)

Indianapolis

Dr. Steven Isenberg, M.D, F.A.C.S.,1400 North Ritter Ave., Suite 221, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46219 (317) 355-1010, http://www.good4patients.com. "He found a lump in my thyroid. He had my blood tested and an ultrasound within days. He did a needle biopsy within a week. He also has helped with my sinus problems and allergies. He always listens. He is just wonderful." (added 1/04)

Indianapolis

Dr. Anthony Lee -- NO LONGER LISTED

Indianapolis

Dr. Ellen Marcus MD, 8060 Knue Road, Suite 120, Indianapolis, IN 46250, 317-842-2909. "Dr. Marcus is an MD and a member of the American Medical Association. I returned to her office (I went there when I was young and saw another doctor) after a couple of not-so-good experiences with other doctor's dealings with my Grave's Disease. I had been suffering very violent side effects from Synthroid. I had run the gamut trying to rule out what could be wrong with me. After three years of trying to eliminate various parts of my diet (bread, milk, red meat, cheese - you name it), Dr. Marcus listened to my thoughts that perhaps I was having a poor chemical reaction to the Synthroid. I told her I had done reading about Armour and wanted to try it. She was very open, compassionate and comforting. She was very willing to listen to me and put me on Armour that day. Within three weeks all of my "bad stuff" was gone and I haven't felt this good since before I got sick! Thank you, Dr. Marcus!!! The Endo that I was seeing at the time was not happy about me taking Armour in lieu of Synthroid, even though I felt better - so I dropped him! Good riddance! I have been taking Armour for a year now and have my life back - all thanks to Dr. Marcus's willingness to listen to her patient."

Another reader recommends Dr. Marcus:
"I decided to see Dr Marcus because of the referral on this site. At first, I was disappointed because she tested my blood, then called and left a message saying my TSH was normal. I was afraid she was going to be like all the other docs. BUT, I called and told her that I still wasn't feeling well. She had me come back in and we talked about my symptoms. She said that I might need to increase my dose of Synthroid. I told her that I had heard that some people feel better when taking a T3/T4 combination like Synthroid/Cytomel. She said that people also like Thyrolar, but I could take either one that I would like. I told her I would like to try combining my Synthroid with Cytomel. She immediately wrote me a prescription!! I'm not sure that she is an "expert", but she listens and is willing to work with you." (Added 2/03)

Indianapolis

A reader writes: "My Doc is: Dr. James Meacham, MD, Indianapolis, Indiana, (317) 843-0000 "I think he is a top doc because he listens to me. When I tell him I still don't feel well, he is totally open to playing with my meds to see if it helps. He always sends me copies of all my lab tests and is more than willing to discuss the results with me. Plus I very rarely have to wait very long in his waiting room!! :) "

Indianapolis

Ernest O. Asamoah, Diabetes and Endocrinology, 7440 North Shadeland, Indianapolis, IN 46250, 317-845-1006 or 317-577-5592, "He is a good listener and he cares a great deal for his patients. He gives samples of medication if he has any to cut down on your cost. He is a great person." (Added 4/04)

Indianapolis

Dr. Robert E. Clutter, M.D., Family Practice, 8060 Knue Road, Suite 120, Indianapolis, IN 46250, 317-842-290.A reader writes: "Dr. Clutter listens to his patients and works with them. He has prescribed Armour for me." (Added 1/06)

Indianapolis

Dr. Helmut O. Steinberg, Endocrinology and Metabolism, 975 W. Walnut St. Medical Research and Library Building (IB424), Indianapolis, IN 46202, 317-278-7826, hsteinbe@iupui.edu. A reader writes: "Dr. Steinberg was my third endocrinologist. I wasn't expecting much, but I walked out of his office having the most wonderful experience. Dr. Steinberg was warm and funny, and was willing to listen to EVERYTHING I had to say. He expertly described my various conditions and the links between them. He also does not rely on lab values. He listened to my symptoms and is treating based on those symptoms. Thank you Dr. Steinberg!" (Added Apr 06)

Indianapolis

Rosalind Leaming, MD, endocrinology, 5665 N Post Rd, Indianapolis IN 46216, 317-562-4044 A reader writes: "She listens to your symptoms, pays attention to current lab values, etc. and works with you to determine what your total problem is and respects a patient's input. She is helping me with a mixed thyroid picture, Hashimotos thyroiditis, goiter, toxic and nontoxic lesions. I had been very fatigued for at least 4 years and had always been told my TSH was "normal" when, in fact it was not. The right lobe of my thyroid had been enlarged for several years, but since the TSH was normal, it was not investigated further. She has helped me a great deal!!" (Added: June 2004)

Indianapolis

Dr. Nancy Stirling, Family Practice, 3725 Kentucky Ave., Indianapolis IN, , Phone: 1-317-856-2300, A reader writes: "My friend sees this Dr. and asked me to recommend her. I plan to switch to her for my next visit. My friend was diagnosed with thyroid disease by Dr. Stirling who automatically put her on Armour and has also tested her T3 and T4's. This Dr has a thyroid condition herself and listens to my friends symptoms and even calls her at home to check on her." (Added: Dec. 04)

Kokomo

Zehra Haider, Community Internists & Associates, Endocrinology, 3505 South Reed Road, IN 46902, 765-453-8666. A reader writes: "I just had to give Dr. Haider a quick plug. I think she's the only Endo. in this area. I've been to her only a few times so far (it'll be on a more regular basis now that I've been diagnosed hypo. at my last visit), but I am very glad I was referred to her. She's very informative, knowledgeable, & nice. I would highly recommend her to anyone!" (Added 6/05)

Lafayette

Shannon Oates, endocrinologist. Arnett Clinic, 2600 Greenbush St., Lafayette (765) 448-8000 or (800) 899-8448. A reader describes Dr. Oates, "I’ve seen an awful lot of doctors in my life and a lot of awful doctors. Dr. Oates is absolutely THE best! I’m diabetic and hypothyroid. She diagnosed the thyroid. But she’s done a lot more. She looks at the whole person. She also diagnosed my asthma that I’ve been trying to explain to doctors for 30 years! Over a year ago I was in her office when I had one of my awful coughing fits that always start up when I’m someplace hot and dry. She jumped up, got me ice water, pulled my socks off and WASHED MY FEET to cool me down. Picture that! A DOCTOR sitting in the floor washing your feet! She also rubbed ice cubes on the veins behind my knees to cool my blood down and thus cool my body. It worked and she prescribed an inhaler for me and it changed my life. Every other doctor that I ever saw told me that my thyroid was fine because my TSH was fine, but my other levels were off and she treated them. Because of her I can breastfeed my daughter. I absolutely love her sense of humor! She is very good natured and friendly, perhaps even chummy. If we had met under different circumstances, I know we would be great friends. I believe she really cares about my quality of life. If you like docs who are real people instead of cold clinicians, Doc Oates is definitely the doctor for you!"

Another reader recommends:
"She treats me as a real person, not just a number. I love her sense of humor." (Added 11/02)

Yet another reader writes:
"She is a real person." (Added 6/05)

A reader writes:
"For over ten years, I have been struggling with all the symptoms of hypothyroidism. It runs in my family. My family doctor and my ob/gyn kept telling me my numbers were "normal". One of the doctors referred on this site wouldn't even see me unless my numbers were off. I searched the site and contacted Dr. Oates' office. I just had my first appointment. This doctor is absolutely amazing! She spent at least an hour talking to me about all my symptoms. She has a wonderful sense of humor too! I have never felt so valued. She took me seriously. She saw my labs and told me my thyroid was "normal", but she was sure I had PCOS. I had never heard of it. All my results came back last night. She was right on!! Now I am being treated with medication and finally have hope! I can't express the gratitude I have for Dr. Oates and her staff. After ten years of struggling with weight gain, hair loss, depression, etc. I finally have the answer. I recommend her highly!" (Added Apr 06)

Lafayette

Charles Turner, MD, Family practice 2433 S. Ninth St. Lafayette, IN 47909 765-471-1100 www.drturner.verizonsupersite.com. A Reader writes: "After being "blown off" by an endocrinologist (who basically said my labs were fine, even when they showed an excessively low level of cortisol, as well as low T3), I sought out Dr. Turner. He listened to me, and responded appropriately to my various symptoms. I am now on medicine for T3, T4, Cortisol (and DHEA, which was also low). I am beginning to feel human again, and am only sorry I waited so long to find someone who would partner with me regarding my health. He reads constantly, and is open to what I have to say." (Added 11/02)

Another reader recommends Dr. Turner
"After being turned away from the student health center with hypothyroid symptoms and a normal TSH in the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies, I sought out Dr. Turner because of the recommendation at this sight. He is very enlightened and I am now getting the treatment I need to feel better." (Added 6/03)

Muncie

C. Kurt Alexander, Endocrinology, 1910 West Royale Court, Muncie, IN 47304, 765-289-1011, "Dr. Alexander diagnosed me with auto-immune thyroid disease after other doctors had told me my thyroid levels were fine. He is never in a hurry when I have an appointment, and always makes sure I am informed about my test results and diagnosis. He is a kind, sensitive doctor who cares about his patients." (Added 4/04)

New Albany

Dr. Alan McDaniel, Endocrinologist, 1919 State Street 812-941-1113. A reader writes, "Dr. McDaniel not only listens but asks questions that you can't believe a doctor would care enough to ask. When my family practitioner refused to take me off of synthetic and use natural because "Synthroid is the drug of choice" I vowed never to return to him. I haven't. It took 3 months to get a new patient appt. but he is worth every day of waiting. Dr. McDaniel is not only helping me with my hypothyroid, he has also uncovered some other endocrine disorders that I was completely unaware of. I'm not running marathons yet, but I realize that this can be a long process of fine tuning. He's personable and his entire manner is the epitome of caring, truly caring about you and wanting you to feel better, perhaps this is because he too deals with hypothyroidism and knows what a drag it can be."

Another reader recommends Dr. McDaniel:
"One of your readers incorrectly listed Dr. McDaniel as an Endocrinologist - he's not, he's an ENT allergist. But he's better than any endocrinologist I've ever worked with. I've had several doctors prescribe Armour Thyroid for me at my insistence, but they basically shrugged and said, "Have it your way. There's no benefit to it, but if you insist." Dr. McDaniel is the only doctor I've ever met who actually understood why Armour thyroid is preferable, but also took the time to explain it to me in clear, understandable terms, talking about the chemical reactions within my body and how they differ with the Armour thyroid. Also, he never gives up. I've had doctors tell me that my labs were OK, so my fatigue must be in my head. Dr. McDaniel takes everything I say seriously and keeps looking until he has found the answers and the ways to help me. I also like that he uses natural supplementation instead of a lot of prescription meds." (Added 2/03)

Another reader writes:
"He was able to diagnose autoimmune hypothyroidism after years of other Drs. telling me nothing was wrong. He has over 3500 patients and I hear nothing but good!" (Added 6/05)

Noblesville (was Indianapolis)

Dawn Ayres, Noblesville Diabetes & Endo, 395 Westfield Rd # D, Noblesville, IN 46060, Phone:(317) 776-3520. A reader writes: "I was Dr. Ayers patient when she was at a former clinic on the south side of Indianapolis, and followed her when she moved . She is always patient, listens to my symptoms and is encouraging. When my thyroid was treated with RAI and we were attempting to get me under control, she would frequently call me at home to see how I was doing. She's great! I highly recommend her for anyone in the Indianapolis area who is experiencing thyroid problems."

Another patient of Dr. Ayres:
"Dr. Ayres is patient and caring. She personally calls me to tell me my test resyults. A glucose test came back high and she wanted to know if it was a random check or a fasting. If it was fasting then I needed to let her know. She is down-to-earth. We're still working on shrinking my nodule goiters. She's a keeper. I hope my new insurance will accept her!"

Another fan:
"On my first trip to see Dr. Ayres she I could tell that she was a caring person. she took the time to listen to how I felt, not only what the numbers said. I live about 100 miles from her office but she's worth the drive." (Added 6/02)

South Bend

Don Michael, Psychiatry, 328 North Michigan St., Suite B3, South Bend, IN, 219/287-6010. A reader writes: Dr. Michael is the only doctor I have ever met that TOOK THE TIME to seriously evaluate my situation. After being misdiagnosed with MS, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Depression, he found I have thyroiditis. This is also the probable cause of my Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, not to mention female problems that led me to surgeries I probably could have avoided. He also found other problems I didn't know existed. He is so thorough, giving me documentation for each item he brought to my attention. I was ALLOWED to spend nearly three hours with him. I left our first visit feeling that I will get my life back after 10 years of discomfort. In a conversation previous to our first visit, I spoke of my eight year old boy having some of my symptoms. He ordered testing for him too, and showed me at my visit that they had come back abnormal as well. So, he is very possibly stopping my son from taking the same road through life that I did. I am so forever grateful. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any doubts about your current physician. His front office help is outstanding and takes the time to relieve your anxieties while she talks to you over the phone. And, when they say they will call you back....they do! He believes in you, how can you not believe in him?"

Another reader recommends Dr. Michael...
Donald Michael, Psychiatrist, Neurologist, 328 N. Michigan Street, South Bend, 46601. A reader writes: "I found Dr. Michael's name through this Top Doc Site. I was at the mercy of a doctor who believed that because my TSH became normal after treating me with lose dose Levoxyl there was nothing else wrong with me. I am pre-menopausal -a time when hypothyroid seems to make it's appearance and found myself blaming the sudden weight gain, depression and appetite changes along with a gazillion other symptoms on this time in my life. I was getting nowhere with my former doctor and becoming desperate to feel better. I would recommend Dr. Michael to anyone without hesitation because he really cares about his patients. He is always accessible by phone, pager, or e-mail. His receptionist, Nancy is almost as knowledgeable about treatments and both she and Dr. Michael are ready to talk with you at any time about problems, questions, fears, etc. I've learned that although common medical practice says this is an easy disease to treat it takes rather a long time to get back up to speed. Dr Michael does not give up on his patients and is willing to travel all avenues to get you to feel better."

Another fan of Dr. Michael. . .
A reader writes: "I found Dr. Donald Michael last August. He is a psychiatrist/neurologist in South Bend, IN. I was looking for a psychiatrist because I have been treated for severe depression for the last eleven years, and my psychiatrist retired. After several months search, Dr. Michael was recommended by the local Mental Health Association. The first thing he did was to order lab tests - including antithyroid antibodies. Although my T3 and T4 results indicated hyperthyroidism, a radioactive scan and antibody tests showed that I have autoimmune thyroiditis. Dr. Michael has proven to be very knowledgeable and understanding. He listens, INTENTLY, and is uncommonly aware of women's issues with hormonal therapy. He tells me that 85% of his practice now deals with thyroid and/or hormone therapy. I saw three other psychiatrists and four therapists before finding Dr. Michael. I was hospitalized for depression because I was suicidal. Now I have taken NO antidepressants since August, and the depression is mild, at best. Also, the thirty some symptoms of hypothyroidism that I had have diminished or disappeared. I hope the fact that Dr. Michael is a psychiatrist will not deter anyone from seeing him. He has specialized in thyroid conditions as he found more and more patients who had this problem. Also, he is the first to point out that he used to be one of those doctors who dismissed what patients said - and now he is very open to the patients' input."

Another patient of Dr. Michael:
"Dr. Michael is the best! He is always courteous, available (he actually returns your calls in person!) and open to suggestions; he treats his patients like human beings, with respect and dignity. He truly cares for his patients. He is truly the best physician you will find in Indiana for diagnosis and treatment of thyroid/hormonal diseases."

One more reader recommends Dr. Michael:
"I traveled from Los Angeles to South Bend to see Dr. Michael. He has an extraordinary breadth of knowledge. This combined with his great compassion and his own experiences make him an extraordinary doctor. He sees the patient in his/her totality, and is not confined to lab results." (Added 11/02)

Here is Dr. Michael's own input. . . .
"Please add me to your list of docs treating patients with thyroid problems and listening to then instead of lab slips. I use Armour as well as Levoxyl, and most of my practice is thyroid or natural hormone replacement. If there is an afterlife, I hope that this turns out to be enough penance for when I listened to things other than my patients or put women on antidepressants or sleeping pills without checking thyroid and estrogen. Don Michael, M.D., P.C., Psychiatrist-Neurologist, 328 N. Michigan Street, South Bend, IN 46601, (219) 287-6010, mDJMike666@aol.com."

Note: Dr. Michael does not accept insurance, and his appointment fees can be costly and may not be covered all or in part by your insurance when you submit them, so call ahead to find out anticipated costs. (Added 10/05)

Terre Haute

M. Reza Roufougaran, M.D. endocrinologist AP&S Clinic 221 South Sixth Street Terre Haute, IN 47807-4214 (812-242-3170). A reader shares, "I started seeing Dr. Roufougaran last September after suffering from Graves’ disease since the mid 80’s. I am a 50 year old male who was not diagnosed until 1990. Since my hyperthyroid condition was so severe I underwent radiation twice to completely destroy my thyroid. Afterwards I could not get regulated. I suffered another ten years using Synthroid in various dosages and finally Armour thyroid. Nothing gave me relief for more than a few weeks at a time. I explained my situation to Dr. Roufougaran the day I first saw him and I knew immediately that he would help me. He asked if I had ever tried Cytomel. He then put me on a new combination of Cytomel and Synthroid while checking my TSH every month or any time I was in discomfort. Since then I have changed dosages four times and now I have had the best six months in my last fifteen years. This doctor is concerned, professional, caring, excellent in every way. When you feel bad so does he. The first day I saw him he told me that he was sure he could make me better, and that he was excited about it. He was right and now I am excited about it too. I recommend this man as highly as I can."

Valparaiso

A reader recommends Myrna Trowbridge, OD. "She got us started on good nutrition and vitamins and we praise her too. Her number is 219-462-3377. She is top notch too. She spends numerous hours with the patient."

Valparaiso

Osteopathic, 1700 Pointe Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46383, 219-462-6192, "Dr. Manakas was the ONLY doctor that helped me function again after being diagnosed with Hashimotos, Sjogren's, and menopause. He prescribed the right medications to help me to feel 'normal' again, and continues to watch my progress, adjusting meds if needed. He is an understanding, excellent physician with remarkable capabilities to listen and to treat complex cases like mine. I thank God for leading me to this wonderful doctor!" (Added Dec. 04)

Another reader writes:
"Dr. Manakas is very knowledgeable with thyroid issues. I tried for over four years to get better since being diagnosed wit Hashimotos. I saw several doctors, tried several diets, went on many vitamins and minerals, and tried several medications. To no avail, not even on high amounts, nothing seemed to work. I was still showing slow metabolic responses, as well as other unresolved hypo symptoms. But Dr. Manakas would go beyond my blood results and agreed that I had cellular resistance. He treated me according to how I felt, and gave very in depth physical exams. He did this every month until I was on enough medication to feel normal. I can't believe the difference in my life, and the difference T3 has made. He saved my life. Dr. Manakas is a caring and understanding person, and listens with an intensity you would never expect." (Added Dec. 04)

Zionsville

Dr. Dale Guyer. This is a small community just north of Indianapolis. A reader writes: "He is an MD but has treated me for the last 4 years using only holistic methods, i.e. supplements, energy work, counseling, nutrition. I started with him while undergoing treatment for stage 3 breast cancer...so far so good! He has helped me regain my health. He is the Dr. who uncovered this thyroid problem and has me on Armour Thyroid. I have only been on it for 5 days. Thanks Dr. Guyer for all of your help and concern.

A reader adds:
"Just a note to anyone considering going to this doctor. I think he's very sharp and is quite personable, but I was told my initial consultation would be $495!!! They don't bill to insurance and you must pay up front. After speaking with him, the woman at the check-out desk said I owed another $500 on top of the $495 because the conversation ran long. Had I known this I certainly would have brought a stop-watch. Also, he orders a whole lot of tests, some from odd labs. I was told my insurance would cover them but found out later it did not. One test alone was $495. If you choose to see this doctor, be forewarned--you must track your time and double-check with your insurance company before you do anything." (Added 11/02)

Yet another reader comments:
"I wanted to comment on the post about the cost of seeing this doctor. I have recently started seeing him. Maybe things have changed since the last comment. He does not accept insurance, so you do have to file it yourself. However, it only costs $300 for an initial visit that lasts 30 minutes. Also, my visit ended up taking 1 hour, and I was still charged only $300 even though the visit was supposed to be 30 minutes. He is really helping me regain my health, and has a lot of knowledge for treating hypothyroidism (not sure about others). I would recommend him to anyone." (added 1/04)

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.