Dr Spambalg is the best doctor I've ever had. She helps me manage my hypothyroidism with excellent information and consistent care. I've been working with her for 14 years. read more

Dedicating my 1300th review to the incomparable Dr. Dorothea Spambalg and her incredible staff of Yesenia, Valerie and Joanne Lamberty (retired Dietician as of January 2020), thank you so much!!! Words cannot express how thankful and grateful that am I to have such an amazing Endocrinologist on my medical team. Parking: Street metered parking along Garfield Avenue next to the Pasadena Public Library ($1.25 per hour) or you can park in the building's parking lot ($8). COVID-19 Procedures: Before your appointment starts, you will call them to notify of your arrival. The front door will then be unlocked. You will be asked the basic COVID-19 questions and given a temperature check. Afterwards, you will proceed with your medical appointment. Dr. Spambalg and team adheres to all COVID-19 practices (gloves, masks, hand sanitizer and staying 6ft apart). Side Note: Dr. Spambalg is out-of-network and so, you will be paying out of pocket for the medical visits/teleconferences, but it is worth it. The good part is that your medical insurance covers the medications. Ever since I started working with Dr. Spambalg and her staff in October 2019, both my life and health has literally and drastically changed for the better. Just when I thought I had lost all hope of ever controlling my two major, chronic medical conditions, Dr. Spambalg came to the rescue. Her expertise, knowledge, guidance and compassionate care showed me the way. She has definitely made me a firm believer that I can control my two major, chronic medical conditions. As long as you put in the work and effort, you will see the results. She will provide you guidance and advice along with the right medications (adjusted as needed based on your lab work, which also helps keep you accountable). If you need additional medical help outside her expertise, she will also refer you to them as well. All medical visits and notes will also be sent to your doctor(s) to keep in them loop. Dr. Spambalg truly cares and wants you to get better. Best of all, she is very punctual, but never rush you. She will listen and address all your medical concerns before you end the session with her. If you have any further questions or inquiries, they are just a phone call away. With Dietician Joanne Lamberty, she was also caring and compassionate. With her guidance and advice, she gave me the necessary tools that I needed to learn and understand which foods were good and bad against my two major, chronic medical conditions. She also taught me how to properly count carbs and how to log in my caloric intake via MyFitnessPal app. Even though she has retired as of January 2020, as needed, Joanne will still be a phone call away. Yesenia and Valerie are also wonderful too! Both ladies are kind and professional. Yesenia is fantastic with showing you tips and tricks on how to make injections and finger pricking less painful and scary. I was terrified at first, but now, it is a normal routine for me. Valerie is also awesome with handling all the administrative aspect (appointment reminders/setups, ensuring all medical billings goes through, medication refills and lab work sent to the appropriate labs, etc). Yesenia also shares that part of the administrative work too, but she handles more of the pre-examinations before you meet with Dr. Spambalg. Overall, I highly recommend Dr. Spambalg for all your endocrinology needs. She is truly the best of the best! Once again, thank you so much to Dr. Spambalg, Joanne Lamberty, Yesenia and Valerie for all that you do! Until our next medical appointment! read more

Dorothea E. Spambalg, MD - Dr. Dorothea E. Spambalg's business card. She is truly the best of the best! I highly recommend her for all your endocrinology needs. - Endocrinologists Near Me - Pasadena, California

The short of it. I told her receptionist that having a phone "appointment" for $250 to deliver the results of labs that I already had wasn't worth it to me. I stand by that. I canceled the appointment with 3 days prior notice ( as required), nevermind that her receptionist called me on at least 3 occasions that I can recollect to change my schedule to "streamline" the doctor's schedule. She sent me a certified letter dated that same day that I refused the phone appointment saying she would no longer provide me with medical care. In truth, I'm grateful not to have to go back. I worked with her beginning in late July (through December) after landing in ER . The ER physician told me to follow-up with her to continue my care and that he considered her to be "the best." My experience under "the best:" Spambalg increased my medicine dosage just days after being released from the ER. Even though I responded to that medication quickly, she made no adjustments once my T4 had regulated. My thyroid was still suppressed, but anyone with two brain cells to rub together could see how quickly the numbers were changing under the current dose she had supplied. It was a very high dose of medication. Weeks later the itching began which landed me in the Urgent Care. What followed was a dreadful, painful saga of HIVES. Initially, I thought the hives were due to an interaction between the thyroid medication and the prescribed medication at the Urgent Care. But I had that medication previously and never had any issues. But as time wore on, and as I paid close attention to my symptoms, it was clear to me that I was reacting to the fact that she had OVERDOSED me on thyroid medication. She should have adjusted it once things started to level out and I called her out on it. Not feeling heard and suspecting that I was possibly being PURPOSEFULLY overmedicated, I took matters into my hands: went to an allergist and immediately sought a second opinion from a reputable physician at Cedar Sinai. I felt vindicated hearing another medical professional tell me that she agreed with me that a lower dose was appropriate. I'm grateful to belong to a support group of individuals suffering from the same disease who alerted me to the fact that she was improperly dosing me and that it would be in my best interest to get a second opinion. It was in that group that I learned that a common side effect of being overmedicated is the presentation of hives. To add insult to injury I suffered this and all sorts of other very uncomfortable symptoms because of her carelessness. It enraged me that she subjected me to an unreasonable amount of blood work only for me to end up with hives and to have my thyroid levels thrown into imbalance because her high dose of medication had me go from hyperthyroid to hypothyroid. Dealing with her through that episode of hives showed me that she had little compassion for what I was going through.This is where she showed her true colors. She even made a comment once saying that most people are not as "involved" in their care as I am. And thank God I had the sense to be "involved." I'm not sorry I sought out a second opinion, even though it offended her. I am sorry that I gave her the benefit of the doubt and continued to work with her after this happened. I don't credit her with the fact that I made it to Euthyroid, because I made it to that state by listening to my instincts and proactively seeking a second opinion. She had even suggested I start PTU (alternate thyroid med) or reconsider RAI (Radioactive Ablation of my thyroid gland). I keep wondering what would have happened if I had switched to PTU and still had hives. I suspect my thyroid would have been unnecessarily radiated on her watch. I can't say for sure why she doesn't take insurance, but if I were to venture to guess? (1) So that she can dismiss patients on a whim when her ego gets hurt (2) so that she doesn't have to be subjected to the checks and balances that are in place when insurance is there as the middleman (3) so that she can overcharge you. I regret that I kept working with her after I stopped trusting her to medicate me properly all because some ER doctor told me she was "the best." If this is considered "the best" of what healthcare has to offer, I think she set a low bar. Other things I found odd: vitals such as your heart rate are taken manually, she doesn't have a patient portal like every other medical establishment, no text or email reminders for appointments, and in my experience if you want a patient summary of your visit/labs, you have to request it(everytime). Even just in terms of simple logistics, her methods are outdated. So in short, I paid extra money to deal with a doctor with the maturity level of a toddler, with a terrible bedside manner, who overcharged me, and overmedicated me. You can pay her for medical care, but not to care. read more

Dr. Spambalg is a favorite among the Huntington Hospital staff. She is thorough and takes the time to listen to what you are concerned about. If you think you have something you googled, verify at your appointment so she can explain to you if you are correct or not, and why. Tip: Keep a diary of your condition, what triggers it, what helps etc. and present this in a summarized manner before your appointment. Ask for recommendations not just for a prescription but also lifestyle changes for diet and exercise, these are equally important but most people do not ask the experts enough. read more

I had my first appointment with Dr. Spambalg yesterday and was SO happy to have found her that at one point I burst into tears! She listened, took a thorough history....just could not have been nicer. She called the lab for preliminary results and called me today - even though she was not even in the office! All this in order to get me on the correct medication and feeling well as soon as possible. With the current state of healthcare and the amount of time that doctors usually have time to spend with you these days....I fell blessed to have found this doctor! Would recommend her to anyone! read more

I have been seeing Dr. Spambalg for many years. She was recommended by my surgeon, and she is simply the best. She is thorough, knowledgeable, patient, kind, and cares about my entire well-being. I wish I could clone her! Valerie and Yesenia in the office are excellent as well. It's the way every practice should be run but seldom is. Although she's out-of-network, I wouldn't consider going to anyone else. Dr. Spambalg is at the top of all my health care providers. read more

This entire office is a dream come true. Dr. Spambalg is thoughtful, caring, and truly listens to your concerns. When I found out I had hyperthyroid, I wanted to be treated quickly as my symptoms were really annoying, but most Endo's wanted me to wait 6 weeks or more. Dr. Spambalg was able to squeeze me in for my first appointment in only a few days. Since I am breastfeeding it makes treating with medication complicated. Dr. Spambalg was sympathetic and respectful of my desire to continue breastfeeding and we've worked out a medication schedule that works for all of us (my baby included!) Her staff is outstanding as well. They are so kind and always welcoming. They always call to remind you of your upcoming appointment, and are very flexible with appointment times too. If you have a question for the doctor it's easy to call them and they will relay your question to her and either she will get back to you pretty quickly, or if it's something simple the office staff will get back to you. They do not have an emergency phone line, so if you have a real problem after-hours it will have to wait until the next day. Parking here is pretty easy. The office is located in the same building in Pasadena where the parking office is. It's right across the street from the central library, on the corner of Walnut and Marengo. I usually just find a street spot and pay the meter. I don't know how much it costs to park in the lot, but it always looks full and I think they only take cash. Most of the meters outside take credit cards, so that's easier for me. I think it's $1.25/hour on the street. I don't know if they validate in the lot, as I've never asked. The only downside here is that they currently do NOT take any health insurance, so you will have to file with your insurance company yourself and you'll only receive your "out-of-network" coverage. They print out the forms/receipts for you, so all you need to do is send in your insurance company claim form along with the forms they give you. In the case with my insurance (a PPO), my out-of-network coverage is pretty bad and my deductible is high, so sadly I am in the process of looking for an in-network Endo. If they were in my network I would certainly stay with them as long as needed. read more

Dr. Spambalg is a terrific and caring doctor. I never feel rushed with her. She is open to questions and different ideas. She clearly knows her stuff. I feel lucky that I found her. Her office staff is very helpful and friendly. My appointments were always on time. I was never kept waiting. read more

Dr. Spambalg is just lovely and my experience with her exceeded my expectations in every way. She took the time to listen and understand my issues completely, she's extremely knowledgeable, and she carefully explains her prognosis. I wish she could be my doctor for everything, because her level of care and service puts most doctors to shame. I look forward to working with Dr. Spambalg in the future. Also, I should give props to her staff, all of whom were excellent. My only beef with this experience was that I had to pay *cash* for parking. Not a huge deal, but a little annoying. read more

Dr. Spambalg has been my doctor for eight years. I had a thyroid issues post pregnancy and was referred to her by my GP. I could not be more pleased with her care. She listens to your concerns even if they are not related to her specialty. She is very caring and very professional . She takes her time explaining everything to ensure you understand or have any questions . She does not push medicine she is careful and only suggest medicine when she feels there are no other alternative . I always walk out of her office feeling well taken care of. She stop taking my insurance over a year ago and I still go to her and pay out of pocket . Because she is this good and secondly her consultation fees for her level of expertise are very reasonable ! Her office staff is efficient, professional . I fully endorse her and recommend her to anyone who needs a smart and caring Endocronologist ! read more

I couldn't have asked for a better experience. The office staff were wonderful, I only had to wait a very short time and when the doctor herself came out to get me she apologized for making me wait. Dr Spambalg is in no rush and takes her time to make sure she has every detail. I feel safe and cared for. What a treat!! read more

Dr. Spambalg is the best doctor I have ever had. She is so caring and attentive, and takes the time to get to know her patients. I appreciate the personalized attention she provides. Her office staff is extremely helpful, friendly, and efficient. I appreciate their reminder calls in advance of appointments, and their help in getting requests to the lab. Dr. Spambalg and her staff provide a very high level of care. Although she does not take insurance, I am happy to pay the office fee in exchange for the top care she gives. All labs and MRIs are covered by my insurance. Dr. Spambalg and her staff run a five star operation! read more

Excellent doctor who has seen me through thick and thin. Knows my case well, and has provided me with invaluable referrals throughout the years. Friendly office staff. She's out-of-network for me but well worth it. read more

My husband and I both see Dr. Spambalg. I have thyroid issues and he has type 1 diabetes. She is absolutely the best doctor we've ever had. She's caring (sometimes in a tough love way, which is a good thing). My husband's management of his diabetes is the best it's ever been thanks to Dr. Spambalg. She's punctual, but you never feel rushed. She makes us feel like she really cares and is invested in our health. Even though she doesn't take insurance, she's worth it. She doesn't take advantage of that, and it allows her to make decisions based on what's best for her patients rather than what the insurance company thinks is best. We highly recommend!! And her staff is great too!! read more

I didn't see this doctor, so I'm only adding a comment here to beware she does not take insurance. I was quoted $400 for an initial visit. I completely understand that the insurance industry is a nightmare, and I've no doubt it is restrictive in terms of what doctors can do, but I wish the office would then just come out and say, "We only want to treat wealthy patients." Who has $400 in spare money each month, nevermind more $$ for bloodwork, nevermind, setting yourself up for more large out of pocket expenses for follow-up visits? If a person goes into medicine to help others, choosing to not accept insurance means turning your back on those in need. I don't see how this can be interpreted any other way. read more

I was more than a little worried when I was referred to an endocrinologist but my doctors were consistent in their enthusiastic recommendation of Dr. Spambalg and I feel extremely fortunate to be under her care. I have nothing to add to all of the rave reviews below - experienced, thorough, caring, patient and all the rest. But I really signed on to compliment her staff - Valerie and Yesenia - who are incomparable. From the first appointment, they made me feel like a valued customer instead of a patient. Responsive, communicative, efficient, proactive, always helpful with lab appointments/medicine/other doctors and wonderfully caring too. Someone below said: "it's the way a practice should be run but seldom is" - I feel exactly the same way. Especially because I just got off the phone with Valerie who helped me reach another doctor that was not responding - above and beyond! I struggled with the financial decision to see Dr. Spambalg as she is out-of-network but wouldn't change for anything. read more

Because of this doctor and this office I will have a longer, healthier life. Dr. Spambalg has helped me get my blood sugar under control and I am no longer on insulin. She is both no-nonsense and compassionate at the same time. She has high standards for her patients, but it is because she believes her patients deserve it. Before I used to simply feel "in trouble" at other doctor's when I was not making certain numbers. Here, it is not "in trouble" it is, "you are worth it" and "these numbers are just data". Her high standards also apply to herself. She walks into every appointment prepared. I no longer have patience for doctors that are asking "what do we have here?" when they are seeing your chart for the first time in the room with you during your visit.Her actions and the actions of the office staff have set the bar very high for every other doctor that I visit. The staff is organized, courteous, and friendly. My appointments and prescriptions are done in a professional way. My vitals are taken with care. The nutritionist is prepared for the questions I have brought and I always walk away with more information than I had before. I am eating better. My appointments start on time. I feel respected as a patient. Dr. Spambalg does listen attentively to my concerns and is concerned about my overall health. I have gotten excellent references to other doctors to ensure I am taking care of all the parts of me that might be impacted by my condition. I only wish I had been recommended to go to her long ago. Yes, I am paying out of network fees. But, it has been well worth it. Again, I am living a longer, healthier (and happier) life because of my visits here. read more

Dr. Spambalg is truly an outstanding and amazing endocrinologist....extremely thorough, knowledgeable and caring....I have known her for many years now, and can't say enough good things. And her staff Valerie and Yesenia are as super as well, always friendly, helpful and caring. Highly recommend this doctor!! read more

Yes, this is a fantastic office and an incredible doctor! Been seeing Dr. Spambalg for almost 5 years now and could not imagine having to find another doctor like her. When we started with her, yes she did take insurance. Her office was so helpful even when the insurance companies ended up cheating (somewhat harsh but let's face it does anyone really think insurance co. are fair and honest?) both insured patients and the doctors office. One year we were told by our insurance company that, "yes" Dr. Spambalg is "in-network". We double checked with the office and in turn they confirmed by contacting our carrier. Months later the insurance company wants to retroactively collect the difference calling Dr. Spambalg an "out-of-network" provider. We were treated poorly by our insurance company but Dr. Spambalg's office treated us incredibly fair even though they were under no obligation to do so! (our insurance carrier on the other hand had been collecting on time premiums in the tens of thousands each year for many years and would not help or consider their position) It wasn't too long after that in which the doctors office began not taking any insurance. (can you blame them) But it is the quality of care this doctor provides that makes us stay with her! We absolutely love her! The fact that her office is so well run, pleasant, courteous, professional and incredibly helpful (both when they did take insurance and now that they no longer do) is just icing on the cake! This condition is serious and I want a serious, knowledgeable, professional that I can trust in for help and advice. I have that trust in Dr. Spambalg! Look, I pay over 2 thousand a month for a family of 4 in premiums (absurd, but that is another story) and I don't really give a damn about a $40, $50, $60 or even a $100 copay for a doctor I am seeing a few times a year. I would rather pay the doctors full fee each visit if I could actually get coverage from the crooks that insure us (it used to be called catastrophic coverage but the insurance industry has managed to turn their supposed risk into the patients risk) . Annual family deductibles over $10,000, coinsurance costs, max-out-of-pocket expenses (MOOP, but it is more like POOP cus' we are getting taken!) do you really want to blame most doctors? We are getting taken but it is the insurance industry and not doctors in general. Sorry I digress - back to the "doctors review". I cannot give this doctor and her office high enough ratings! Thank you for making our families lives a whole lot better! read more

I've been searching for a new endocrinologist. I don't have insurance because frankly the cost is so excessive. I'm self-employed. I called to obtain information, but she's by far the most expensive dr I've called! $450 consultation fee!!! read more