I always come here if I need immediate help. Dr. Yien is always there and always gets me the help I need. No appointment needed and walk-ins are helped quickly. It's great to have an office like this close to home in Aptos! read more

I enjoy coming to doctors on duty because every time I show up the women at the front desk are always friendly and personable. I never have to wait for my scheduled appointment. three women stuck out to me at my last appointment- Sue she's the receptionist, Chris she's the MA, and Stacy the P.A. they were all professional and efficient, but at the same time funny and entertaining. see you ladies in a week for my next apt! - Mallory read more

My daughter was seen by Dr. Luoto today for an abscess. He was the most patient and kind doctor I have ever met. He provided the best medical care and I would highly recommend him. Thanks Dr Luoto for your amazing care for my daughter read more

I have been to DOD on three occasions. The first time I went I waited a very long time and was seen by an brusk, unsympathetic female physician,. I didn't care much for her bedside manner, because I only went there for medication and prescription refills. However,. My recent experience with this same doctor, in regard to a neck injury motivated me to write this review. I went in and saw the first doctor (a kind man with an accent) for severe neck and shoulder pain. Pleasant reception, very short wait. Doc checked me out and we talked about the pain (severe) and numbing sensation n my right hand. He told me it sounded like it could be disc related and that if I didn't get better on meds, I'd probably needed an MRI. He said an X-ray wouldn't show issues in soft tissue - and would just cost me money. So instead, he prescribed vicodin, flexeril and naprosyn. He told me to come back in 10 days if it didn't get better or sooner, if it worsened. I went back 10 days later. My condition had worsened to the point that I could barely function. I was in severe pain, could not sleep and had lost sensation in two fingers. Aptos was closed so I went to the Ocean Avenue location. There was one other person in the waiting room and I was taken back relatively quickly. Unfortunately, from that point on, things deteriorated. They left me in the room for 2 HOURS with no one checking on me. No magazines...etc. I honestly felt they had forgotten about me. I listened to them joking around and talking outside my room as I just sat there -- trying to hold my head up in tears. When I could stand it no longer, I came out and politely asked how much longer it would be. They looked surprised to see me. I saw Dr. Elgin on her computer in her office to my right. There was one guy with a cut on his finger in an open curtain area - it looked like he was waiting for stitches. They said "it shouldn't be that much longer." I asked if I could call my husband, as i had forgotten my mobile phone, and they let me. I waited another 20-30 minutes for the doctor.. She was absolutely brusk with me - offering only a perfunctory apology for having to wait "a little longer than normal". With tears, I told her about my condition and rated my pain an 8 out of 10 - and I was being conservative. Surprisingly, despite two major reported neck traumas in the past, she was dismissive of my assertions that I had some kind of disc implication (YET - I had been told this by the previous doctor and my chiropractor). She laughed at me when I told her I thought perhaps I might need steroids and a referral for an MRI. She said "You don't need an MRI. You need physical therapy". I told her that I might need BOTH -- but seeing as I had no feeling in 2 fingers and excruciating pain down my right arm that prevented me from even getting up out of a recliner or walking around without a neck brace --- that I thought it would be wise to see a specialist for an opinion. She brushed it all off, telling me the other doctor didn't give me enough pain medication for my size. She increased the pain medication from oxycontin to hydrocodone and upped the muscle relaxants too -- but not the anti inflammatory. I asked her what we should do if the meds did not alleviate the symptoms. She told me to come back the following Tuesday for a Physical Therapy Referral. I asked how I could do PT with so much pain and was met with non-response. I called in the following Monday after consecutive, desperate nights of pain. I was exhausted, in terrible pain and by then I had a total loss of feeling in my right thumb with numbness in two other fingers. I spoke to the clinic manager and explained what had transpired over the previous 3 weeks. I described how my pain and symptoms had worsened and how the female doctor undermined the opinion of her fellow physician, classifying it as confusing and unprofessional. The DOD Clinic Director apologized and asked what I wanted. I then demanded a referral to an in-network neurologist, a stat MRI referral. I also asked the director to speak to the doctors about the use of a steroid to reduce inflammation in my disc, since it's proven to work better than traditional anti-inflammatories, which require ample blood supply to work. The Clinic Director called back the next day with an apology and everything I'd asked for. However, by that time, I'd secured my own Neuro appointment and received a STAT MRI and a round of methyl prednisone (which immediately helped). The MRI revealed a large disc herniation and bulging disk impeding my spinal column. So, I'm now under the care of several specialists. Perhaps if I'd had proper medical care and diagnosis BEFORE 3 weeks had passed, it would not have escalated so badly. I still have no feeling in my right thumb. DOD refunded 50% off my last visit ($99) and apologized for my experience. I would never go back there again or trust this clinic based on my experiences there. read more

After I had already encountered a disappointing series of doctors I was extremely relieved to meet Dr. Yien, a primary MD at Doctors on Duty. Unlike the bad experiences with doctors who dismissed my physical pain as "med seeking" she respected my explanations and professionally provided relief. Since then I've counted on her to be a partner in helping my recovery and she has not disappointed. read more

Dr Yien is my primary care doctor and I'm so happy I found her! She is extraordinarily down to earth, communicative, and efficient. She has a great bedside manner while also getting through the appointment on time. The nurses are really sweet and helpful. The whole atmosphere in the office is very relaxed and it doesn't feel rushed or stressed the way some offices do . The receptionists are always very organized and I never have to wait very long as a walk-in or to get an appointment. Seriously, 1000 praises for Dr. Yien, I love her! read more

Dr. Lutz and his staff (especially Chris) are helpful, kind and understanding. They go the extra mile to make sure you are taken care of, even for someone without medical insurance , like myself. A nice, fast alternative for those that do not wish to sit in their primary care physicians office waiting for hours. Only 4 stars because of the experience I had with the PA Eve last Friday. (And the decor in the exam rooms, time for an update!) but I digress... I went in on Friday with a budding ear infection (been having them since I was young, had tubes in and out of my ears for most of my youth, I know what an infection feels like) and only Eve was available . I told her my symptoms , she checked me out and proceeds to tell me that my ear is red and swollen , possibly due to misuse of a Q-tip. Hahahahaa... Ok. Fine. I asked for antibiotics , which I rarely take, and she sent me home with a prescription for ear drops. She seemed unsure and hesitant, not what you want to feel during a doctors visit whilst feeling ill. Got the drops , didn't help , over the next 2 days , my symptoms increase and now BOTH EARS are bothering me! Keep in mind, I have no insurance , just paid over 100$ for the visit and 29$ for the drops. I was not happy as I had to work all weekend sick. Long story longer, I called Monday (today) and spoke to the manger Carmen (lovely) and she told me to come on and the dr could asses me. I wanted to avoid another visit fee, can someone please just give me some antibiotics?? Low and behold, dr. Lutz gave me a quick exam at no charge , confirmed that not only had I a double ear Infection but also a throat infection, gave me a script for amoxicillin and I was on my merry way. Moral of the story, trust yourself and your body and insist on something, even when a PA makes you feel like you've been using Q-tips all wrong! Thanks again DR. Lutz and staff of DOD! read more

I can't say enough kind words about the whole staff here. I bring my elderly mother here whenever she is having a problem. She has mobility issues and is generally difficult. Everyone at doctors on duty goes out of there way to accommodate all her needs and keep me from losing my mind. I can't give any more stars or I would. read more

It seems each time my husband and I visit Aptos from Oregon, we need to see a doc about something ranging from a shoulder injury, sinus infection, poison oak outbreak or infected spider bites! Doctors On Duty in Aptos have been great. The wait is not long, or, if it is an hour or more, we can make an appointment. The front desk staff is super efficient and the PA's are very professional. Dr. Karin Yien was personable and thorough. This facility is a valuable asset to the Aptos community! read more

I went in here a few days ago for a health screening for work on 1/7/13 or so Indoor: The front desk lady was nice and helped me. She was wearing scrubs. I thought she would be in more professional clothing, considering she only ran the front desk. Maybe she was helping the nurses/doctors in between, I don't know. My Health Screening Experience: This screening was very very short... The nurse got my weight, height and asked me a few questions. The doctor, Dr. Halali, came in and asked me more questions like have you ever had a heart attack? or are you allergic to anything? and so on... I then had to bend over and he checked me spine. After, I took off my shoes and he checked my feet. Then he sent me to the front desk. I don't know how health screenings work exactly but I've gotten plenty of physicals before for my yearly health checkup and school sports. I used to go to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation in Scotts Valley before I moved to Santa Cruz. They did a much more thorough screening. Overall: I came here due to a requirement for work so I didn't have to pay a dime. I'm really happy about that because the overall service wasn't that great. The doctor didn't seem to care much and the screening was so short. I would definitely suggest getting an appointment at any Palo Alto Medical Foundation or even Planned Parenthood. Not many people know but Planned Parenthood does so much more than give out millions of condoms, birth control & STD checks. I knew someone who went in there for a broken foot. Call them and ask about your specific request. read more

I saw them for a Workers Comp Injury, things were not good at first because I have multiple injuries, and they only wanted my overall pain level - so I had to average 4 injury area's into 1 number. But, I finally got through to them what I needed, to see the same doctor every visit, and to be asked about each body part that was injured to give a pain level. I did get assertive and aggressive, but they were not meeting my needs and my WC Co (the devils) sent me to them. And when I had referrals I had a wonderful lady, ERICA to call at the Santa Cruz office to find out the status, she would always follow up and get back to me in a reasonable time frame. And she would call me when referrals came through. She handled - the two locations for workers comp issues. I only took 1 star off because of the rough start - but I appreciated that they listened and heard me and wanted to help me. read more

I have been having the hardest time finding consistent quality care since I moved to Santa Cruz, but Dr. Karen Yen and staff are amazing and have made life so much easier! Thank you! read more

I would highly recommend this medical clinic. I have had many great experiences with staff who are knowledge and who very friendly. The Physician Audrey Payne has been great with the my medical care needs. Audrey is a true professional who makes you feel comfortable and takes her time and listens and answers all your questions and concerns. Thank you! read more

Originally my girlfriend and I would go to the Santa Cruz DoD, but in the past couple months we started going here (the Aptos location)! Karin Yien has been wonderful and extremely helpful in diagnosing and taking care of my girlfriend. She's very knowledgeable and makes sure you see the correct specialists, and always goes through it all and makes you truly feel valued as a patient. I definitely recommend seeing Dr. Yien! read more

I almost don't want to leave a review because I'm worried more people will find out about how great this place is. This location is amazing. The wait times are reasonable. If there is a long wait you have the option to leave and receive a text to come back rather than sit around in the waiting room. The staff is always friendly and thorough. read more

The kindest staff you could have, wonderful attitudes and beyond helpful! They listened to every concern I had and worked with me to make sure I got the care I needed, and all in a walk in! You are seen extremely quickly. I would recommend this office to anyone needing urgent medical care! I will be switching my primary care to them after this wonderful visit! read more

Dr Yien is amazing! This should be your number one stop if you don't have a primary care Dr and see to see someone right away. Caring and very helpful! read more

The front desk was so easy to work with and were compassionate and nice the entire time. The doctor was quick to see me and was very nice and made me feel comfortable right away. I am going to stay with Doctors on Duty for the rest of the time I live in Aptos. read more

I recently went there for labs, the guy who i saw explained that covid was really overrated and played up in his eyes. that he didn't wear a mask outside of work. The only time he wears a mask is during work hours. I find it very unprofessional one to discuss your own opinions at the medical office which where you work. I also find it very disturbing that I was possibly in contact with someone who doesn't believe in wearing masks to help protect others in the community. If you go there, be sure to know that even if it is their own personal right to not wear a mask, that you could be exposed to ciovd. I am an at risk person so this really bugs me. The lack of respect is very sad read more

I was SO sick with the stomache flu on thanksgiving, I had a horrible night, I went in at 8 in the morning on Friday. They got me right in, I was miserable and not fun too be around I'm sure, they were so nice and fixed me all up with a couple anti nausea shots. Really nice nurse and really nice doctor. Thank you I'm feeling so much better:) read more

The Aptos office of DOD deserves high marks! The front office staff was so friendly AND professional. They definitely had a good handle on the necessary communication, scheduling, paperwork, etc. Dr. Karin Yien is a rock star! She is such a kind-hearted, caring and competent physician. Even on a Monday with a packed waiting room she was really efficient without compromising a good "bedside manner". read more

Excellent, efficient and friendly medical care. Dr Karin Yien is a caring, thorough, friendly and professional doctor with excellent communication skills-- Nurse/PA Christine is extremely helpful and Briana at the front desk is friendly and efficient. Call ahead and Briana will put you in the queue and call you 10-15 minutes before the doctor will see you so you can avoid waiting in the waiting room and come over when they're ready for you. read more

We recently moved fulltime to Aptos. So fortunate to find such friendly, caring and extremely thorough medical help at Doctors on Duty. Dr. Yien, NP Sevil and PA Aragon were not only professional but very caring and competent. I'd highly recommend Doctors on Duty to everyone. read more

Dr, Karin Yien and the staff at this location are the best!! They are all extremely professional, friendly and informative. Dr. Yien takes the time to explain what is going on and never makes me feel like my time is up and on to the next patient. Her assistant Christina is very kind and helpful. They go above and beyond with dedication and professionalism in helping me on my way to recovery. read more

Dr. Yien saved my LIFE!! She took all the precautions to diagnose my condition and treated my as if I was family. She spoke to me each step of the way to explain exactly what was happening to me and set me at ease. To this day I am grateful to be here with a healthy heart and wont' hesitate to see her gain and referred many of my friends. Doctors on Duty has a dedicated employee who cares about her patients. Bless her!!! read more

im so scared of needles and shots and blood, but Cristy was so understanding and patient with me! She definitely made the entire experience a lot easier. Thanks Cristy, you're the best! read more

Staff is always so friendly! Never a bad moment! Helps to have doctors on duty in aptos! Great location!

I have been to this office many times lately and have had an amazing experience every time! I injured my back, so sitting around for long periods of time isn't something I look forward to and have never had to do that here!!! I would really like to mention that the staff are some of the most kind and helpful people I have ever met!!! If you need a great place for any medical help... Go here!!! read more

Sorry for those that had not so good service at DOD, but mine was pretty good every time I have gone it. They also have been prompt to answer calls, also prompt to call me back for futher treaments in a timely manner and have always been pleasant to talk with. The staff and doctors have been great. read more

Dr. Karin Yien has been my primary physician for the past few years. I am so grateful to be under her care. She is very knowledgeable and supportive. She listens and asks questions that get right to what is important. I always felt her presence/attention the minute she walks in the room, which is so vital to healing. I have told so many people about her when I am asked about a Good Doctor in the area. I look to Dr. Yien & feel that we are working together as a team to address what ever aliment I have come in with. I have had to go to Doctors on Duty for things like a stye, shingles, ear infection, etc. and for a condition with regards to my eyes that was more long standing in nature. I have always felt reassured when I leave knowing that she is such a great physician that I can count on. I had other doctors helping with a diagnosis and ways of helping a condition short of surgery. Doctor Yien was the main stabilizer for me. She was genuinely interested, knowledgable and did research. She offered ways that would help me health-wise through this journey. I can't say enough about her. It's difficult to find words to describe someone who has been such a healing person in my life, that I have come to know and who is aware of my health and with her knowledge tailors a treatment to my needs. I am so grateful that she is so true to the kind of doctors that are needed and to have her right here in Aptos at Doctors on Duty is such a plus, a true blessing. There are times I opted to go to the SC office just to be seen by her. Thank you for the great care you've given me and continue to give, Dr. Yien. I so appreciate you and that Doctors on Duty has you on the team at the Aptos location. read more

Okay, about a week ago I got that dreaded "oh crap, it burns when I pee" feeling, and I knew it was something I needed to address. I work full-time, pay LOADS for employee insurance, and have never used it except for my yearly flu shot. I wasnt even sure I could use my insurance at Docs on Duty---that's how clueless I am about my own health plan! Called 'em up and they offered to see me that day, for which I was grateful, but couldn't find coverage for my own patients (I also work in the medical field) so I set up an appt for the next day. (Fyi, appointments aren't necessary at Docs on Duty but I prefer to have a scheduled time cuz I'm OCD....almost kidding). I got there on time, checked in and filled out the usual forms. Briana, the front office receptionist, was very friendly and knowledgeable. She copied my insurance card and said I'd be covered for today's visit--I paid a copay only. STOKED! Naturally, I needed to pee, so they took me back immediately and had me do 2 urine samples: one dirty catch, one clean catch. The MA on duty, Christina, took my vitals and she was upbeat and sweet. Let's be honest: No one likes feeling crappy and EVERYONE hates going to the doctor, so a little kindness goes a long way. It makes a difference how health care providers interact with their patients, especially in those first few minutes of a first visit. They were on top of it for sure. Normal temperature with BP and pulse rate slightly elevated (understandably so---I have "white-coat syndrome" and an uncomfortable infection in my nether region so it makes sense that my blood pressure was a little high.) The provider on duty was Gilbert Aragon, a young PA--I'm guessing in his 30's. He greeted me, saw my scrubs and asked what I do in the field. He was gauging how to communicate with me about my reason for being there. He asked all the pertinent questions and was very straightforward, which was much appreciated. He did a quick exam which consisted of tapping my kidneys and lower back, palpating my inguinal lymphnodes (which were slightly swollen and tender) and my abdomen. He was careful and conscientious. We agreed, given my history and symptoms, to proceed with a course of antibiotics. He felt it was prudent to culture my urine sample and check for specific bacteria and I asked if we could also screen for STD's. Better to be safe! He advised me to return immediately if symptoms persisted or got worse. He gave me quick rundown of possible scenarios if I didn't respond to antibiotic treatment. I liked him immediately. I liked the office and staff immediately. They are confident and capable. I even set up an appointment for a women's wellness exam with Dr. Nye (one of the female providers) since it'd been a while since my last pap, and honestly, I liked the vibe in the office. They made me feel comfortable, acknowledged, and well-cared for. I'm feeling better already. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this Docs on Duty location and the biggest testament is that l plan to go back! read more

I have been very happy with both the level of service and the competence of doctors at Doctors on Duty, Aptos. I recommend their services.

If I could give zero stars I would! I went I with Kidney pain, and after working in the medical field already had an idea what was going on. Explained symptoms to the PA, who always had a confused looks on his face and after the blood test & other tests he still had no idea (seven days) & I'm was still in pain. When I asked for something for the pain I was offered a one time cortisone shot? REALLY? Kidney pain not back pain, I know the difference "Doogie". Ultrasound ordered & completed (11 days now) and still no idea but we have to wait for him to read the report? REALLY!! ? By this time I knew I had already passed a few Kidney stones, extremely painful thanks to his incompetent skills. They should have a Doctor on staff all the time, who knows how treat quickly & efficiently without having follow ups every three days just to tell someone you still have no idea. I have no faith in this place, & I do not recommend this place, or at least that PA, Gilbert. I finally got the BEST treatment at Santa Cruz Urgent Care!! Awesome ! read more

Cannot recommend highly enough!!! Had to go in for minor ear infection (kiddo)- guess that's the price of JGs and summer?! Called in advance and they said the wait time was 30 min. We went right away and it took ME about 10 min to complete the registration paperwork. After that, they called us back about 4 min later- fantastic! Got her vitals quickly and then 2 min later we saw Cynthia (Med student)- who very nicely asked if she could examine symptoms and then have the doctor come in. Very nice bedside manner and quick diagnosis. Cut to 3 min later, and Dr Aragon came in to confirm. Called in Rx to preferred pharmacy, told us to follow up if needed, quick co-pay at the front and we were out the door! Pharmacy had Rx ready ASAP- total in/out was less than an hour! Have had much longer waits at other local urgent care centers, didn't feel like a priority there. NOT the case at this doctors on duty. Thank YOU to the staff- we appreciate you!!! read more

This is an update for Doctors On Duty My wife came here because of painful chronic mouth plaques as her dentist asked her to see a medical doctor. She was supposed to have a sample swab taken from her mouth and sent to the lab. She phoned and the answering medical assistant said they do this. She took time off from work. Upon arrival and waiting, the physicians assistant took a look and said to the effect, no thanks, we don't send samples to the lab - or he chose not to. Really? My wife has been to DoD several times for this same problem - recurring painful mouth plaques. Prior Rx have worked for only a few days and the same problem creeps back. Okay. We'll not go back. read more

Chris is outstanding, she is, caring, thoughtfully, and very helpful. She is a real asset to Doctor on duty. Keep up the good work. And thank you. read more

Have to say, I just received the most articulate and comprehensive review of my lab tests I have ever received in my life. This is not "Doc in the Box" this is exceptionally excellent, compassionate care. I was seen by Dr. Frank and PA Chris, both of whom made me feel cared about and fussed over, yet professionally tended. No question was left unanswered. I am so glad they are so close and so available. read more

Wasted my time. Made an appointment online for a DMV physical at the Aptos, Ca.location. Their website specifically says they provide this service, but when I arrive I'm told "We don't have a certified person to do DMV physicals here." Why don't they say that on their website? That is what a website is for, to inform customers of the services that youi do and DO NOT provide at each location. read more

Super grateful for this clinic. Lately I've come at good times and been seen immediately or very quickly. Recently, I went in for one issue and Dr. Yien did an additional test because she noticed something, and so thankfully that issue was also treated. I always appreciate it when a doctor is so thorough. The staff have also been great lately in helping me with issues involving my insurance company and my pharmacies. They have to go to a lot of extra leg work in cases like this and it is very appreciated. read more

The best thing about Doctors on Duty in Aptos was Dr. Howard. Dr. Halali or however you spell his name is a joke, the man has no interest in his patients. I literally have been with Doctors on Duty for over 2 years, and now I refuse to give them any of my money. I have never seen such a poor response time to refills, and also they choose to decide based on direction of the breeze if they want to discontinue your perscription. I miss Dr. Howard and will never visit Doctors on Duty in aptos again. read more