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.

Aldie

Norman Levin, MD, Internal Medicine / Rheumatology, 39070 John Mosby Hwy, Rt 50,P.O. Box 107, Aldie, VA 20105, 703-260-3484. "He has a complementary / holistic practice; he uses Armour, he treats adrenal insufficiency; he listens and spends a tremendous amount of time with you." (Added 6/02).

Another fan:
"Dr. Levin has to be the best doctor I think I've ever been to, and I've been to a lot, trying to find a professional that was willing to work with Hashimotos and a TSH level "within normal range". I was very symptomatic (weight gain, hair loss, fatigue, etc.). All my symptoms were ignored by other practitioners. I was even having blackout spells when I became menopausal at dinner parties (no, only one alcoholic drink and moderate eating). I researched bioidentical hormones and found it difficult to find a doctor willing to work with someone on this particular medication, but had to when the lowest dose estrogen birth control pill gave me a dangerous blood clot. Dr. Levin works with bioidentical hormones, and treats his patients with an emphasis on bioidentical medicines/products. He works out of his home, which is located just outside Middleburg, VA. He treats his patients with respect, treats people for adrenal stress, spends as much time as is necessary with you, and really listens. I felt that he was the ideal doctor, and I highly recommend him!"

Alexandria

Mary Shomon has personally heard good reports and consulted with about Donna Hurlock, M.D. from several patients and other practitioners. Here is information provided by Dr. Hurlock herself. Contact: 205 S. Whiting St. Suite 303, Alexandria, VA 22304 Phone 703-823-1533 Fax: 703-823-5873. "Practice: Gynecology. No OB since 1988. I've done lots of menopause therapy for years. Usually I use conventional hormone replacement titrated carefully to what the patient needs which often requires a number of phone calls but not that much lab work. We continue to titrate doses at each annual visit so therefore a very high proportion of our patients continue happily and comfortably with their ERT. Some patients use Triest, compounded ERT, made to match normal human proportions of estrogens. It's more expensive but I'm not sure it's better. There really isn't any data showing that it's better despite what Christine Northrup claims. Some also get testosterone if needed. I do not believe that estrogen CAUSES breast cancer, since it has never been assoc. with increased rates for breast cancer DEATH. In fact, it is consistently found to be assoc. with decreased rates of death due to breast cancer ( a well kept secret). Also, I don't think mother nature, who gave us estrogen, is stupid enough to make a hormone that is necessary for life to also be a carcinogen. (I've been on the pill for almost 30 years which is equivalent to about 180 years of standard ERT. And I think that if ERT causes breast cancer I'd have it by now.) That’s why I don't try to substitute non-estrogen products to get estrogen effects. Fine tuning ERT based on patients symptoms makes it quite easy to do the same thing with thyroid deficiency. We usually don't rely on lab tests to diagnose menopause so it seems very reasonable to do the same with thyroid. I do it because I am hypothyroid (my TSH was about 1.5) so I've learned by treating myself, and I like to help my patients feel and function as well as they can using whatever is safe and works. I guess it takes one to diagnose one. I'm currently collecting data on all my thyroid patients (500-600 or so) with the goal to analyze the data to present it to the conventional medical community, Perhaps if I SHOW THEM THE DATA, they will start paying more attention to their patients and less to the lab. Then hypothyroid patients won't have to work so hard to get treated properly. Not too much to ask, I think! As far as infertility, I just found out that one of my patients who had stopped having periods entirely as she got tired, dry and gained 30 pounds or so has just become pregnant after about 8 months of being on thyroid. The kicker is that when her TSH came back @ 5.5, I sent her to a gyn endocrinology/infertility expert so that she could put her on thyroid and be a hero. Instead, she told the patient her test wasn't abnormal enough and that she should do a high protein diet to lose the weight and take Pergonal (expensive fertility drug) to ovulate. Oh well! I guess she was wrong. I certainly would not call myself and infertility expert however, I just got lucky. It's amazing how well our bodies work when our hormones are right!!!"

A reader recommends Dr. Hurlock:

"She relies on patient input and lab results!" (Added 11/02)

More praise from a reader for Dr. Hurlock:
"She has saved my life! She listens when everyone else thinks that I am crazy. She understands secondary hypothyroidism and she makes sure that I do too. Her "bedside manner" is terrific. I hope that I will continue to see her no matter where I move to. She is worth a trip around the globe." (added 1/04)

Another recommendation:
"After many frustrating years with multiple symptoms and many doctors who didn’t understand and misdiagnosed me, I found Dr. Hurlock. She looked at all my medical records and test results , but most importantly she LISTENED to me. Dr. Hurlock worked with me and not only based my dosages of Armour on my bloodwork, but also how I was feeling. I would recommend this doctor to anyone who feels like they are not being heard. This doctor is a heck of a trip for me, but I will drive anywhere to continue to be helped by someone this good." (Added 4/04)

Alexandria/Arlington/Northern Virginia

Thyroid Guide Mary Shomon writes: "An endocrinologist I've been to see is Suzanne Rogacz, MD. She believes in the 1-2 TSH level for most women in order to avoid symptoms, get pregnant, maintain a pregnancy, etc. She's pro-Synthroid, "tolerated" my taking Thyrolar, rushes in and out and doesn't always seem to excited to get questions, but does let you know your numbers. She's pretty much of the school that once you're treated, all the symptoms should vanish miraculously. She does, however, differentiate between "getting you into the normal range" and being "properly treated" in her focus on the optimum TSH level she's found for most patients."

Another patient writes:
"She is willing to increase my medicine to lower my TSH level below the recommended range. She listens to me when I tell her that I do not feel well when in the recommended range."

A reader writes:
"Dr. Rogacz is great! She spent a lot of time explaining to me all the various treatments for hyperthyroidism; potential side effects; how the thyroid works; what causes hyperthyroidism etc. She was thorough and not condescending at all. She did not rush in her explanation or rush in her examination of me. I definitely trust her judgment and will continue to see her until my thyroid condition is resolved." (Added 4/04)

Alexandria/Arlington/Northern Virginia

Author and patient advocate Mary Shomon writes: "My general practice doctor is Kate Lemmerman, MD. Kate practices at Kaplan Clinic with Gary Kaplan, Lisa Lilienfield, and several other osteopaths. Dr. Gary is a pretty well-known acupuncturist. Kate is also an acupuncturist and practices osteopathic manipulation. She's a wonderful doctor, caring, compassionate, listens, open-minded, not in the pocket of a bunch of drug companies. She's one of those MDs who realized that there's a lot more to healing, and so she went on to study complementary medicine approaches. All the docs at this practice are pretty wonderful, actually. I'd recommend them all! They don't accept insurance...you pay, then submit yourself. And the waiting time for a new patient can be weeks or a few months. But these docs are ALL worth it. They're EXCELLENT, cutting edge!! Lee Highway, Arlington, VA, 703-532-4892

A reader recommends Dr. Kate Lemmerman:
"Dr. Kate is wonderful. She is caring, compassionate, and willing to try something outside the "box". Alternative medicine is main stream here. Dr. Kate makes you feel like a person, not a number. Any lab results are discussed in detail with you. She explains where you are at and where she would like to try to get you to - each time and every time lab work is done. Dr. Kate is also an acupuncturist and does osteopathic adjustments. She treats the whole person, not just your thyroid. After numerous doctors, I was so happy when I found Dr. Kate Lemmerman." (Added 11/02)

A recommendation for Dr. Lisa Lilienfield
"Mary has already listed Kate Lemmerman; Lisa Lilienfield is another MD in this wonderful practice. I have just started seeing Dr. Lisa and I am so happy with her. She is very knowledgeable and thorough, and is careful to discuss what your other docs are doing with you. Like the other members of the Kaplan practice, she is trained in Osteopathy and Acupuncture, and has used both on me with good results already. Not only does she listen, she remembers....and that is very reassuring when you are faced with a health challenge." (Added: Dec. 04)

Alexandria

Howard Lando -- NO LONGER LISTED

Alexandria

Laura R. Stone MD, Gynecology, 205 S. Whiting St. #305, Alexandria VA 22304, Phone: 703-370-7728, A reader writes: "Laura Stone is great! She is focused on the whole woman, and is very knowledgeable about thyroid issues, especially their impact on reproduction. She is responsive, takes your questions seriously, and is not afraid to dig in and get dirty to solve a problem." (Added: Dec. 04)

Annandale

Richard D Fischer, DDS, Dentistry, 4222 Evergreen Lane, Annandale, Virginia 22003, 703-256-4441, docfischer@bigplanet.com. (NOTE: Dr. Fischer is a thyroid-friendly dentist.) Says Dr. Fischer: "Haven't used the thyroid-suppressing agents (Fluoride or Mercury fillings) in over 20 years."

Ashburn

Dr. John T. Hart, Gynecology and Functional Medicine, 20925 Professional Plaza, Suite 100, Ashburn, Virginia 20147, 540 751 0605. jhartmd@erols.com. "Specializes in Chronic Fatigue, Thyroid and Adrenal dysfunction, Fibromyalgia." (Added 6/02).

Charlottesville

Suzanne A. Coffey, Chiropractic Nutritional Health Assessment, Community Chiropractic Health Care, Inc, 689 Berkmar Circle, Charlottesville, VA 22901, 434-975-1994 O 434-975-1988. drcoffeydc@earthlink.net, http://www.nutrabalance.com(Call for password). Dr. Coffey writes: "Since I am Chiropractic Physician I do not prescribe hormones. Rather I look at your system and evaluate your metabolism to assess why or what is the underlying cause of your issue. Identify, Eliminate and Rebuild. Individual Optimal Nutrition is the major factor. My thyroid was sluggish and I was fatigued I identified that gluten was the major offending agent in my diet. I eliminated gluten, coffee and chocolate and lost 20 lbs in 4 months and I no longer have fibrocystic breast disease. Ultimately, there are other issues that still need to be revealed. This was a huge step for me at 45. Don't look for a silver bullet, because it doesn't exist. Seek the truth and the truth will set you free."

Charlottesville

Lance Isakov, Acupuncture, 313 Second St. Suite 211, Charlottesville, VA 22902, (434) 465-1238. http://www.PureWellness.org. A reader writes: "He is just an amazing Acupuncturist and individual!" (Added: June 2004)

Charlottesville

Dr. Alan Dalkin, Endocrinology, 450 Ray C. Hunt Dr. Suite 1215, Charlottesville, VA 22908, Phone: 434-243-2603, 800-251-3627, http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/people/dop/dopDetail.cfm?drid=93, acd6v@virginia.edu, A patient writes: "He is a great listener. he looks at more than numbers. He prescribes Armour Thyroid. " (Added: Dec. 04)

A patient writes:
"He listens to patients. He prescribes Armour Thyroid. He is open to new ideas and research. I found him to be very likeable and easy to talk to. I recommend him as one of the Best docs at UVA medical center. " (Added: Dec. 04)

Chesapeake

Dr. Paparello, general practice, Volvo Parkway. (757) 548-0099. A reader gushes, "This doctor listened to me and allowed me to try another med which most doctors don’t like to prescribe...he saw how much Armour had changed how I felt...and he also was thrilled with the results...so he could advise other patients of the results with me."

A reader writes:
"I was very impressed with this Dr's bedside manner. He actually pays attention to what you say. He takes his time with you, and doesn't act like you are taking up his time. They were very quick with lab results. His office also has a very relaxed atmosphere about it. I have even decided to switch my children over to his practice. And it was a quick turn around from getting an appointment." (Added Apr 06)

Fairfax

Dr. Kathleen Link, Pediatric Endocrinologist Dr. Kathleen Link3020 Haymaker Court, Suite 502 Fairfax, VA. 22031 (703) 849-8440. A parent shares, "My ten year old daughter is an insulin dependent diabetic and was diagnosed at age three. Since moving to VA three years ago she has been seeing Dr Link. She and I find Dr. Link to have an excellent understanding of what it means to be a diabetic child. She’s encouraging without being condescending and she’s forthright without being brutal. As we look forward to the rocky years ahead we feel confident that our daughters health and well being is just as important to Dr. Link as it is to us."

Fredericksburg

Mark A. McClanahan, M.C., Diabetes and Thyroid, 10711 Spotsylvania Avenue, Fredericksburg, VA 22408, Phone: (540) 981-8499/(540) 891-8662, A reader writes: "I have been treated for hypothyroidism for 12 plus years now. I have never had such a fantastic visit as I had today with Dr. McClanahan. Dr. McClanahan's staff was fantastic when I called to schedule my initial appointment. They even sent me a welcome packet of sorts in the mail, which I received the day after making my appointment. Dr. McClanahan's whole office staff was friendly, helpful and welcoming. He was open and receptive to answering all of my questions. I didn't feel rushed or like I was putting him out by asking so many! Dr. McClanahan appeared to be very interested and well read in all the new findings regarding thyroid research. He believes thyroid patients feel better when their levels are in the 0.5 to 2.0 range rather than the traditional 0.5 to 5.5 range. On the same note he did say if he has a patient that is at 3.0 and feels fantastic -- why mess with it?! Dr. McClanahan also talked to me about the possibilities of taking supplemental T3 in addition to Levoxyl if my labs appear fine and yet I still do not feel well. He seemed extremely supportive in helping the patient to find a way to feeling better. His lab is in-office and I was seen to have my blood drawn quite quickly. He said his office calls with all results not just "bad" ones. He said to expect a call from them on Monday (today is Friday). When refilling my prescription he made sure to specifically indicate that no generic substitutions were to be made by the pharmacy. He also stressed to me the importance of using a brand name to ensure consistent doses. I just got back from my appointment at his practice and am feeling very enthusiastic and hopeful. I wanted to let people know about Dr. McClanahan right away! He is truly a fantastic physician! " (Added: Dec. 04)

Another recommendation:
"He took me seriously. He called me at home one time to answer my questions. He has a good bedside manner. I’m not sure how else to say it-he’s one of the best thyroid doctors." (Added 10/05)

Another fan:
"I love Dr. McClanahan! The first reader summer everything up quite well, so I don't have much to add. I have Hashi's and just had my first appointment. It was such an uplifting experience. He is very open and easy to talk with. I can't believe that he spent almost an hour talking to me about thyroid diseases! Dr. McClanahan understands that some people may not feel their best even when the labs show normal ranges. He is very open to prescribing Armour or supplemental T3 if the patient wants to try it. My other endo only spent about 5 minutes in the room with me and was very dismissive about my concerns. I just cannot say enough good things about this Dr. and his entire staff. I left my appointment armed with a lot of knowledge about my disease." (Added 1/06)

Front Royal

Patricia Daly, Internal Medicine, 315 West 10th Street, Front Royal, VA 22630, 540636-6131, "Dr. Daly spent a lot of time getting my complete history, including family members, down in her laptop. She explained the choices in the different medications, including Armour. She also answered my questions about T3 and T4 in great detail. She also made me aware of a possible connection between hyperthyroidism and autism (3 of 4 children are autistic)." (Added 4/04)

A reader writes:
"Dr. Daly took over care of my minor adrenal insufficiency after an HMO had nearly done me in with their misdiagnostic and inappropriate treatment. She came highly recommended by other endocrinologists - a recommendation that is well founded. Thank heavens! She is attentive, listens, and maintains excellent records. Her treatment is holistic, sensitive, and always right on target. Highly recommend her." (Added June 2005)

A reader writes:
"I have trying to get in to see her for the last two years. She is NOT receiving new patients and hasn't been for at least that long." (Added Apr 06)

McLean

Dr. S. Mark Tannen -- NO LONGER LISTED

Midlothian/Richmond

Peter C. Gent, D.O. 2621 Promenade Pkwy, Midlothian VA 23113 telephone number is 804 897-8566, fax is 804 897-8569. A reader writes: "I highly recommend Dr. Peter Gent. He is caring, compassionate, well informed, and appreciates the fact that I have done my own research. He listens to what I have to say and talks to me like an adult instead of patronizingly talking at me. My appointments have both been about 30 minutes spent with the doctor. He makes one feel very comfortable in the appointment, going so far as to weigh women patients at the end so they won't feel uncomfortable from the beginning. He treats my hypothyroidism on the basis of my symptoms and basal temperature with Armour and is experimenting with supplemental T3 in some patients. He also recognizes a connection of hypothyroidism with Candida and with hyperinsulinism and is willing to treat the Candida. He is very perceptive and takes into account my lifestyle when recommending treatment. Finding him is the best thing I have ever done for my health and I feel blessed to be his patient."

Midlothian

Dr. Kevin C. Harrison, Internal Medicine, 2621 Promenade Pkwy, Suite 101, Midlothian, VA 23113, 804-897-8566. A reader writes: "Dr. Harrison worked with Dr. Gent for a year and has taken over the management of all the thyroid patients. I have seen both doctor, and they are both excellent. Dr. Harrison realizes every patient is unique and that treating their thyroid condition requires an individualized approach. He really listens to what you have to say. He doesn’t just rely on numbers. He never makes me feel rushed and always explains test results and possible treatment options. I highly recommend him!" (Added 10/05)

Another fan of Drs. Gent and Harrison:
"These two doctors are the finest individuals. Dr. Gent saw me immediately and took me on as a patient. They listened and think outside of the box to help find solutions. They are the best!" (Added 10/05)

Another patient writes:
"Dr. Harrison realizes that every patient is unique and that treating their thyroid condition requires an individualized approach. He utilizes a full panel of thyroid tests plus basal temps to manage my condition. He is experienced with T3 therapy with Armour but also uses the standard Synthroid/Levoxyl. In my case, I required both armour and synthroid to get my thyroid under control. Dr. Harrison also evaluates the adrenal gland if adrenal fatigue is suspected. Most importantly, he really listens to what I say and how I am responding to treatment. He does not just rely on the numbers. He never makes me feel rushed and always takes the time to explain test results and treatment options. Since seeing Dr. Harrison, I am finally getting my life back on track. I highly recommend him to any patient with thyroid disease." (Added 1/06)

Nassawadux

Harold Blumenthal, Internal medicine, Eastern Shore Physicians & Surgeons Hospital Drive, Nassawadox, Phone: 1 757 4426600 , HE IS THE MOST COMPASSIONATE AND CARING Dr.on the Eastern Shore.He treats the elderly with respect and the young alike, A patient writes: "He is the most compassionate and caring of all his patients. He treats the elderly and young alike.He works long hard hours in the office and on call at Shore Memorial Hospital." (Added: Dec. 04)

Norfolk

Leon-Paul Georges, Endocrinology & Metabolism, The Diabetes Institutes and Center for Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 855 West Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, VA. 23510, (757) 446-5908, http://www.evms.edu/diabetes/. "He is a physician on the cutting edge of research and treatments at the Eastern Virginia Medical School." (Added 6/02).

Norfolk

Donald Richardson, Endocrine/Metabolic Disorders, 855 W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, VA 233510, (757)466-5908. A reader writes: "Dr. Richardson was quick to pick up on my Hashimoto's symptoms and was willing to do additional lab tests to confirm questionable results. Also, I love his nurse, Kim, as she is particularly helpful and efficient. They have willingly worked with me on adjusting my Synthroid dosage as they realize that getting the numbers within the "normal range" is not necessarily a complete reflection of a patient's well being. As a part of the Eastern Virginia Medical School, Dr. Richardson is part of a team at the forefront of medical research, discovery, and understanding. It makes a difference." (Added: June 2004)

Norfolk

Thomas E Goffman, radioiodine ablation, 600 Gresham Drive, va, 757 363-9885, goffmate@evms.edu. The doctor recommends himself as "An innovator in toxicity reduction in I-131 high dose ablative therapy post surgery." (June 2005)

Reston

Dr. Neeraj Bhushan, Internal Medicine, 1850 Town Center Pkwy., #410, Reston, VA 20190, 703-478-5350. A reader writes; "Dr. Bhushan has worked very patiently with me and after Synthroid alone did not work well for me, he switched me to Armour Thyroid to which I have responded extremely well." (Added 1/06)

Reston

Dr. Michael Horwath, endocrinologist, 703-709-6116 1800 Town Center Drive (Reston Medical Plaza, next to Reston Hospital). A reader writes, "Dr. Horwath and his staff are some of the most caring, responsive, responsible medical people I have ever encountered. He and his staff always return my calls when I have questions. He spends time with me in the exam room, discusses options, and considers my feelings and concerns. He has a conservative approach, which I also think is a good thing. When my eyes started bothering me, his office referred me to an ophthalmologist the same day. When I called with concern because my heart rate was elevated, he had a beta blocker called into my pharmacy. It was there waiting for me when I went to pick it up 2 hours later."

NOTE: Some patients report that this doctor is not willing to use T3. Please confirm all potential treatment approaches before making an appointment. (Added 1/06)

Richmond

Kevin Harrison, D.O., Internal Medicine, 2621 Promenade Parkway, Richmond,VA 23113, 804-897-8566, www.richmondcenterforhealing.com.
See listings for Midlothian

Richmond

Meridith Berger, Endocrinology, 1421 Johnston Willis Drive, Richmond, VA 23235, Phone: Phone: 272-2702, A patient writes: "After having been dealing with insulin resistance, hyperthyroid/hypothyroid problems that were causing outrageous weight gain and prohibiting wt. loss I started asking friends and doing other research for a doctor who would listen to me and take my complaints seriously, as I believe that I know my body better than anyone else - I was referred to Dr. Berger by a then fellow school employee. Dr. Berger is the 'BEST'! " (Added: Dec. 04)

Richmond

Dr. John Partridge, OB/GYN, 10710 Midlothian Turnpike, Richmond, VA, 804-897-2100, www.vpfw.com, A reader writes: "Dr. Partridge really took the time to look over my previous bloodwork and take a thorough history - probably about 45 minutes. He then decided to do retest my Thyroid along with adrenals and pituitary hormones. When the results came back my TSH was 3.8 and he had the knowledge of the new TSH levels. He called me to come back to his office so he could go over the bloodwork and why he wanted to start me on a low dose of Thyroid. He's thorough, he listens well and he's cautious. He has very good diagnostic skills. I will be retesting my blood in 2 weeks. I can say I have felt better - not as tired being on the Thyroid medicine." (Added June 2005)

Another fan:
"I highly recommend him. He is very knowledgeable and will do what is best for the patient. He is a good man and very caring. He will truly listen to his patients. I highly recommend him to any thyroid patient. He is a great ob/gyn too!" (Added 10/05)

A reader writes:
"Dr. John Partridge takes the time to listen to his patients and understand the complaints are legitimate, and not brush it off to "it`s and age thing" he works well with compounds and natural ways to combat problems. He is well informed in his procedures, and works with the pharmacist to compound correctly to help the patient. He is my hero, and saved my life." (Added Apr 06)

Roanoke

Joan M. Resk D.O., Family Practice/holistic medicine, 5249 Clearbrook Lane, Roanoke, VA 24014, 540-776-8331, www.tolifehealth.com. "Keeps medicine simple and clear." (added 1/04)

Vienna

Dr. Ali Safa -- NO LONGER LISTED

Virginia Beach

Dr. George Amberman, MD, 837 First Colonial Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454, 757-437-8889. Special interest in thyroid disease and holistic alternatives. A reader writes: "As a thyroid disease patient I cannot say enough positive things about Dr. George Amberman, MD. He is a very caring and compassionate physician who knows how to deal with the myriad of problems that can go along with thyroid disease. He keeps current on the latest treatment approaches with thyroid disease and listens to his patients. He invest time in his office visits and to help them regulate their thyroid levels to achieve optimal TSH levels. He understands that "a one size" treatment approach in dealing with this illness does not fit all. I have autoimmune thyroid disease and I have spoken and worked with Dr. Amberman over the years with referrals as a thyroid advocate. If you live in the Hampton Roads area (Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth or Hampton) Dr. Amberman is a physician you should see if you need a doctor to help regulate your levels, check you for thyroid disease." (Added: June 2004)

A reader writes:
"Great listener, Prescribes Armour OR whatever works best for patient. Very willing to help patient feel his/her best. Love him to death!!" (Added Apr 06)

Virginia Beach

Roger W. Newsom, MD Ophthalmology/Oculoplastic Surgery 933 First Colonial Road Suite 105 Virginia Beach VA 23454 (757)422-4235 www.tidewatereye.com. A reader writes: " I went to Dr. Newsom on a whim and ended up with a gem. I have Hashi's, Graves and severe TED. On my first visit with him, we went over my 4 year history with all of this. His first question to me was, "Has anyone ever explained the autoimmunity involved in TED and how TSI antibodies effect it?" I knew by that question that I had found the ophth for me! He spent a lot of time discussing things with me and was impressed with the research I have done online. He currently is treating about 15 patients with severe TED. Finally, a doctor who is in agreement with me that I should not have any surgeries to my eyes while the eye disease is still active and my vision is not in jeopardy! Great staff, too! I highly recommend him to all Graves/TED patients! He also practices out of the Portsmouth office..(757) 483-0400." (Added 6/03)

Virginia Beach

Lambert Titus Parker, MD, Holistic Longevity, 5041 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA 757-226-8880, Fax: 757-226-8883, Email: drparker@infaneeta.com www.longevityva.com, "Dr. Parker was the one to pull all the pieces of my complex medical case together-especially the T3 component. I had been suffering for over ten years and seen countless 'specialists' that provided little to no help. Dr. Parker worked me up so thoroughly and educated me every step of the way! I haven't felt this good in years! It is so rare to find a physician that will take the time to listen to you, learn everything he can about you, and explain things to you in a way in which you understand them. I am so blessed that I found this wonderful physician-he truly cares about his patients!!" (Added Dec. 04)

Another reader writes:
"This physician is a brilliant man who understands that your thyroid is not the only problem, but how it affects your day to day life is also one of the core components. He was trained traditionally but also has the ability to think "outside the box" and come up with a completely personalized treatment plan. I took an amazing amount of time and energy to research the physicians that were leaders in this field. My decision to fly across the country to see Dr. Parker was the best one I ever made. If you are looking for a truly innovative physician that is also a caring and compassionate person - Dr. Parker is the doctor that will serve you the best!" (Added (Added 6/05)

Virginia Beach

Dr. Lisa Harris, Bariatrics, 1115 Independence Blvd, Suite 118, Virginia Beach, VA 23455, 757-460-4300. A reader writes: "Dr. Harris was the only doctor who would listen to me." (Added 10/05)

Winchester

Laurel D. Tschirgi, Internist, 1870 Amhearst Street, Suite 1-D, Winchester VA, 22655, 540 723 0611. "After years of being treated for the individual symptoms of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis I finally went to Dr. Tshirgi. She spent well over an hour with me taking my history and symptoms and carefully asking questions. She understood that I was already being treated with Levoxyl for hypothyroidism but decided to run extensive tests anyway. Thank God. Dr. Tschirigi is the first Doctor I have been to that even took the time to put the symptoms together to form a diagnosis. Her skills as a physician have earned her a place in the Doctors guide to the top 100 physicians in the country list. She is hands down the best Doc I've ever been to see." (Added 6/02).

Winchester

Charles R. Drake, Jr., Endocrinology, 1870 Amherst St., Winchester, VA 22601, 540-667-6161, "Dr. Drake is a very caring doctor who correctly diagnosed my Graves Disease and is treating it very effectively. We do follow up visits every three months and he always has time for my questions and concerns." (Added Dec. 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.