Horrible practice. She has no compassion for her patients. Also, she is barely ever available. Your better off with someone else.

This listing shouldn't be under "Gina Tobalina, MD"....it should be under "Whoever the Heck Happens to Be on Staff OTM, but You Sure as Heck Won't See Dr. Tobalina, MD". I have been a patient of Dr. Tobalina since I moved to the area in 2013....a patient for the past 10 YEARS, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have been able to actually see Dr. Tobalina. She has virtually ZERO availability, and if you are lucky enough to snag an appointment with her weeks ahead of time, there is a very high probability you will get a phone call indicating that her schedule changed, she has to deal with a personal matter, or whatever...and you'll get pushed onto another member of the team. But my biggest disappointment with this medical establishment happened in 2020-21. I was suffering from tremendous pain from gallstones for months. It seems like it would be a slam dunk diagnosis; however, for some reason it took Tobalina way too long to discover I was full of gallstones, and was suffering frequent attacks. I was referred by Tobalina to this quack that botched the surgery to remove my gallbladder. I spent 3 WEEKS in the hospital as a result. Tobalina received updates regarding my condition all the while I was in the hospital, but I received no follow-up inquiry from her as to how I was doing. One of the reasons I chose Dr. Tobalina when I moved here was because I wanted the personal attention of an all-around family doctor....but I've been left very disappointed in that regard. Flash forward to today....I am experiencing sharp pains in the approximate location where my gallbladder used to be, and I fear it is connected to the previous botched surgery. After reaching out to make an appointment with Tobalina, I again get the runaround about her availability, and I'm forced to make an appointment with another member of her staff who knows nothing about my gallbadder history....so much for being MY doctor. I am in quite a bit of pain, but the very best they could do is give me an appointment with "Dr. Who the Heck Knows" a WEEK FROM NOW. If you're a woman, don't expect to receive any sort of reminders for well-woman exams, mammograms, etc....because that is apparently all up to you to remember and schedule. I constantly have to dig around in my files in order to figure out what I'm due for. Finally, I want to point out that I previously also had my child see Tobalina (or whoever they stuck him with), but I had to change his doctor on account of there being very little knowledge of pediatric care in this office. Perhaps that was me being naive in having my son see the same doctor as me, but again, I had this crazy idea about having a FAMILY DOCTOR. read more

Unfortunately received a very poor and rude service from Galina, who is one of the office representatives. She provided incorrect information, was unprofessional and very rude. I hope provider can look into this problem. read more

I have been going to this Dr for 5 years and rarely actually see her. I was using a shared medical plan and they were accepting it. Now they tell me they no longer will accept it and won't even refill my blood pressure meds. It is unbelievable. The front office receptionist was rude and not helpful. I even offered to pay cash and they would not refill my medication. This is a medication I have to take everyday. read more

Dr. Tobalina is the best Primary Care Physician I have had as a patient. Why? 1) She involves the patient in her thinking as she arrives at a course of treatment. She is excellent at listening to the patients concerns, explaining in layman's terms the course of treatment. I sense her genuine concern for her patients, 2) She knows her stuff. 3) She readily will refer you to a specialist when needed. 4) Her office encourages a team approach to patient care. The patient is a part of that team approach. If you are searching for a physician with genuine nurturing skills, and a proactive approach to your improved health, you will not find better. read more

Dr. Tobalina has been my doctor for a little more than six years and I can definitely say she has been the best doctor for me. She is knowledgeable, patient, and personable. She truly approaches things for a whole person perspective and has helped me with a lot. I'm very grateful for her. read more

My husband has been with Tobalina for about 5 years. Never has he once seen her. Says he could not pick her out of a line up. No follow up to see how he is nor follow up appointments scheduled for things like getting a C-pap machine. You are just on your own. No reminders nor suggestions for annual exams or other possible required test for middle aged people. Every time my husband went, he met with a different PA or NP, so he might as well have been going to Urgent care. Just sub-par care where the focus seems to be on profit over people. If the doctor can never see patients, or appointments with the doctor are many months out, then there are too many patients. read more

Arrived at Dr. Tobalina's office on time, actually 15 minutes early to fill out paperwork. Handed over my ID and insurance card as it was requested I bring these items. Started to fill out paperwork when front desk worker states it is "policy" that they don't take my insurance. Mind you, this was after they confirmed my insurance on the phone when I made an appointment and then later confirmed my appointment. Disappointed in this office on many fronts, but I'll stick with three. FIRST, misrepresentation and lying. SECOND, even if my insurance was one Dr. Tobalina's "policy" approved, I would not have seen her, THE DOCTOR. The first visit is with a Physician Assistant. A PA is NOT a doctor, don't let the title fool you. Who knows if you would ever actually see the doctor at this office? Maybe the honor of having an actual doctor examine you is reserved for certain people. See my paragraph below. THIRD, I took time out of my day, arranged a caregiver for my 15-month-old, and spent time and gas coming to Dr. Tobalina's office only to be rejected for having a certain type of insurance. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Select a more socioeconomically-inclusive physician that accepts insurance from those from all walks of life. This discriminatory practice may seep into how this office cares for patients, so perhaps it's for the best that I did not get my care here. Would have been more than happy to discuss this issue with Dr. Tobalina as opposed to reviewing on Yelp, but her front desk worker stated Dr. Tobalina does not have an email. So one fun fact did come out of today - I found the first doctor I've ever known who does not have an email address - in the 21st century, no less. Now back to my adorable 15-month-old! read more

Called to schedule an appointment, and some unprofessional front desk answered. Didn't know anything about insurance companies had to explain for her what's the differences, put me on hold for 15 mins to go ask someone and came with no answer as well. Not recommended for first time impression. read more

They have not called me to confirm results of lab drawn to see if my medication needed to be adjusted. Also never got a call back to be given results of my decade scan and if there should be any treatment changes. Thirdly ..I questioned why I was scheduled for a contrast CT? I have had CTs before but never with contrast. A courtesy call would have been nice. When I called to question, I never heard back. Obviously there method of communication is faulty. Thank God I am. Healthy 72 year old....feel sorry for ones sicker who have no medical background. read more

I heard a lot of really good things about this office from a family member. Emily at the front desk was welcoming and the PA who saw me was very nice and educated. One of the staff members however made a rude remark about me (while I was sitting in the lobby). And for that reason, I do not plan on coming back. Medical offices should be a place where patients feel safe and confidentiality is maintained. Update: the office has now called twice regarding the situation. Both times the woman on the phone appears apologetic and assures that the comment I heard was not regarding myself. Either way I still don't plan on coming back, but they seem to handle complaints very well and desire patient happiness. read more

Being in the medical field I have high expectations. Dr. Gina is attentive and genuine. As a female, I am sensitive and have a hard time remembering all my concerns. As a female, I wouldnt go anywhere else. read more

Amazing Doctor and Staff Dr Tobalina really cares about her patients and staff is friendly. Would recommend this Doctor to everyone too bad there's only her . Her PA make up the other half of a great experience best all around!!!! read more

Used to be a cozy little medical practice putting patient needs above everything else. That has been changing in the last few years, as her practice has grown and added a significant number of new staff. Dr. Tobalina is still a great diagnostician and is able to turn what would normally be an unpleasant and often frightening time into a positive and caring experience. Not too fond of the administrative snafus, and Dr. Tobalina should be in the office more, but all things considered she is still the best choice in the region. read more

Love Dr Tobalina. Sadly, I was misinformed by United Healthcare that they accepted United Healthcare Alliance (CalPers) when U changed insurance carrier. If you have the opportunity of having Dr Tobalina as your doctor than rest assure, you are in super good hands!! read more

I have finally found my medical home!! The staff is considerate and kind, helpful on every level. The medical assistant helped me more effectively use my BP Cuff, made sure I had my updated immunizations. Dr. Tobalina came in introduced herself projecting warmth, kindness and gentle assessments. She talked to me, reviewed my history, made recommendations, diagnosed my maladies and inspired me toward a better diet. Reviewed possible medical tests and labs indicated. Wow!! In this era of corporate medicine a truly compassionate, intelligent and communicative set of professionals! I left feeling optimistic, as though this medical team were my smartest and best new friends! read more

Having just moved to El Dorado Hills, I needed to find a new doctor taking new patients in January 2015. I did pretty extensive research to find the best doctor close to home. I was so pleased to see the wonderful reviews of Dr. Tobalina so I called the office to get the correct information on health insurance that the office would accept. At that time, I was told that new patients could start being seen in January. Everything was in place or so I thought. I have been having a lot of difficulty with what I think may be sciatic nerve issues, so I called in mid-March to make an appointment with Dr. Tobalina. I was extremely disappointed to hear that Dr. Tobalina was not taking new patient appointments until June and to make matters worse, I would not even be able to meet my new doctor once I had my appointment scheduled. I would have to be seen by the PA first. If I wanted to see Dr. Tobalina, that would have to be another office visit. I was told this was a new policy that Dr. Tobalina herself had put into place. I asked to speak with a supervisor and got the same story. There was no flexibility whatsoever. As a new patient, it is very important to me that I am able to establish a relationship with my new doctor. I think this process is backwards. New patients should be able to meet their doctor first, then future appointments could be with the PA if it was determined that it would meet the patient needs. I can't comment on how great Dr. Tobalina is or how wonderful her staff is because my one and only experience with her office turned me off completely. I ended up canceling my appointment, switching medical groups and found a doctor who actually cares about meeting her new patients in a timely manner. Good luck to Dr. Tobalina's other new patients.....maybe you'll actually get to meet her one day. read more

Extremely disappointed. I transferred from another doctor with 3 prescriptions. I have been trying to get one of those prescription filled for three weeks without prevail. Dr. Ochoa explained that we could have conversations through myhillchart which is a computer based program that helps the doctor/ patient relationship as well as help get things moving but it seems these doctors use it to blow off patients. My advice. Pay the copay once and tell them exactly what you need. Otherwise the doctors at this office will continue to take your copays without helping you. read more

Had a physical done yesterday....Gotta love those once a year privacy pusher visits. The location is great and easy to find. The interior of the office was beautiful and the staff was very friendly. I had a PA do the physical so I did not actually meet Dr. Tobalina but I have a strong assumption she is like the rest of her staff. My one docked star is just due to the fact that I couldn't make an appointment on Monday (my only day off) since I was a new patient. So I did end up having to take non-PTO off. But I will definitely update my review next time I go in! read more

Dr. Tobalina is so kind and caring. I'm so glad to have found her :) It's hard these days to find a doctor who cares about their patients. She is more than I expected. I've had a couple visits and each has been great. She genuinely wants her patients to be healthy and happy. I am very pleased with my experience with her so far and highly recommend her! read more

I love Dr Tobalina. She is kind and caring and really listens and diagnosis well. I would highly recomend her. I think the office should be open a little later. Its very hard to get an appointment sometimes. But I highly recommend Dr Tobalina:) read more

Complete disregard for patient time. She was on my insurance card as my physician, I was given an appointment and told they took "western Health Advantage". I drove 30 miles with my children and was turn away by the office staff telling me they did not accept my insurance. My insurance phoned them while I was waiting and she still sent me home stating they were not taking new patients with MY insurance (even though the appointment was scheduled a week prior and they stated they did in fact take my insurance). They argued with my insurance carrier and myself. I cannot believe I took time off of work to keep this appointment. Terrible customer service and unfortunately a complete waste of my time. read more

Let me start by saying that the doctors and nurses at Dr. Tobalina's office are very good. However, this office is mis-managed. I'm constantly having problems with scheduling same-day appointments, even if we call the night before and leave a message. They don't ensure there are enough same-day appointments on a regular basis, and they have ZERO same day appointments on Wednesdays, because Dr. Tobalina only works a half day and they don't schedule any other providers to be available on Wednesdays. So, if you only need a doctor for things like physicals, routine check-ups, and things that can be scheduled weeks in advance, then Dr. Tobalinas office should work. But, if you need a doctor that can actually see you on the day (or day after) that you start feeling ill, go somewhere else. read more

I have been a patient of Dr Tobalina's, for years, but cancelling my appointment because I was 5 minutes late, was completely unacceptable and unprofessional. There was not one person in the waiting room, about 5 medical/front desk assistants sitting around and Dr. Tobalina was sitting in her office. I drive 30 minutes to get to her office and today it rained, so traffic was slow. They did however, tell me I could reschedule. What? Are you kidding me? I'm taking my time to write a terrible review instead. I haven't actually seen her for years, because she's never there. I love her PA's and will miss them. Somewhere along the way, Dr. Tobalina has forgotten who made her practice successful - Her Patients! Those of us that sit in the waiting room for 30 minutes to see her. Those of us who referred her to our friends and family (because she used to be a good doctor). Those of us who pay her salary. Something happened Dr. Tobalina and you stopped caring. I was glad to see that you have other bad reviews, because I don't feel so bad writing this, now. Hopefully, enough of these bad reviews, will make you wake up and smell the coffee. It's you, that will someday destroy your practice. read more

Went to the doctors office with a case of pneumonia and was turned away because they have no appointments available!(?) I was told I could go to the emergency room or an urgent care for treatment. What kind of bullshit is that? I'm over 50, have apparently had this for weeks (started with the flu), I'm constantly short of breath and now the pain in my lungs is getting sharp. I thought after the chills passed I was getting better but apparently not. Add to that that neither my wife or I have seen Dr. Toberlina in the office for more than a year. It appears her office is great if you want to see the nurse practitioner. When you call the voicemail says that they are not taking any new patients at this time...? It appears they have too many patients already and can't see the ones they already have! Great!! read more

Dr. Tobalina and her staff are just wonderful. They are always able to see me when needed and I never have to wait very long. She listens to what my needs are and trust what I am saying to recommend the best treatment. Not only that, I am able to get most of my questions and prescriptions through their online patient portal which is extremely convenient. Overall I highly recommend her especially if you are a female :) read more

Long ago this practice was very efficient and a delight to do business with. Dr. Tobalina was 'actually there' and the small staff was friendly and rarely did they get anything wrong. Gina is truly a great diagnostician and has that rare quality of being to relate on a personal level to almost anyone... AND.... explain things in a way that almost anyone can understand. As I've said, it used to be a real pleasure dealing with Dr. Tobalina and her staff. Then more staff was added, they changed locations, and the problems began to add up. Long hold times, dropped calls, missed communications, ignored patient directives, etc., etc. This is no way for a good practice to go down. I don't know about the medical staff, but the office staff appears to be barely competent. More times than not you can't reach anyone during normal hours. And when you do reach someone, they generally try to help ... but... Times are not that bad that you can't interview and hire competent people. I come from a long line of medical professionals. Over the years I've come to understand some of the more important things about running a medical practice. As important as it is to hire the right people, it's also important to ask for patient feedback .... often. And I don't mean asking questions like "is the staff friendly?". I mean asking patients if they believe their medical needs are being met, if they have trouble getting timely appointments, if they can even reach the office by phone without waiting for 10 - 15 minutes to speak with a beleaguered secretary. Ask patients if this is the experience they expect from their primary care physician. These are questions that matter. And people will be glad to tell you. More than glad. After that it remains to make some hard decisions. If the current staff is not cutting it - hire different people. It's a simple as that. It's almost axiomatic that good doctors make the worst businessmen. But it shouldn't be. Brilliant people should be able to see when things don't work ... and then fix them. The only thing that is achieved by overlooking mediocre performance is mediocre service. That is not how this practice began. read more

This office is beautiful! The staff is really nice, and the physicians assistant who did my physical today, Stephanie, is the best!! She's so nice, caring, gives great advice, and gets things done! Some of the previous reviews are upset about not meeting Gina herself their first visit, but come on, you're not going to see her EVERY visit you have. Meet the MA's, PA's, RN's first because they're the ones who you're going to see the most! Thank you Tobalina's office for a great experience! read more

Not impressed. Just called and tried to schedule a new patient appt. Had to leave a message as no one apparently was available to pick up the phone. Once they called me back to schedule, there was so much back ground noise, Jen had to put me on hold. When she came back on the line, the back ground noise and "frequency" sound issues where interfering in our conversation and she became very agitated with me not being able to hear her. Will not be calling that office back!! read more

Being an established patient for years, plus we pay a lot of money for medical insurance to have a primary care doctor oversee our health. I have not been seen by my doctor for over a year, only the PA's in her office. This is very disappointing to be denied care in her office to the point that I was deferred to urgent care twice in one week instead of seeing me. I endured pain and suffering and was misdiagnosed by urgent care due to the neglect of my primary care physician's office not seeing me. I am now with a wonderful physician who will be accessible to me when I am ill, and not have to be sent to an urgent care and get misdiagnosed, and receive the right treatment I so urgently needed. Think twice about going to this doctor, because in time of need she may not be there for you. read more

I started seeing Dr Tobalina the first week if her internship. We lost contact for nearly 3 yrs. I watched her grow as a Dr. as she watched me improve physically. I owe my cancer survival to her. I kept her informed for about 2 yrs before she started Private Practice. Unfortunately she was to far to travel to. I was blessed to be able to find her again. I changed my insurtance because I moved within her office and I get her back..She is by far the best M.D. I ever had. I know she will be the best she can be anytime day or night. Gina has exceptional bed side manor and is always available. read more

We moved from Colorado to Fair Oaks in Sept 2015. As we looked for new doctors, my wife found Dr. Tobalina and went for a visit. She was very impressed. I had decided that I wanted to go to a male doctor just because I had always had a male doctor. After 3 different male doctors, I was very discouraged at the way I was treated and the lack of professionalism. However, I was hesitant to go to be examined by female doctor (mostly due to self consciousness). But my wife talked me into going to see Dr. Tobalina. I was impressed beyond belief! Dr. T's staff is top notch! the PA's (Musssart, Stefanie and Kimberly) are excellent! I joined the Regenerate Wellness program and lost 53 lbs! I can't say enough about this group of medical professionals. They are A1, Best in Class, Numero Uno in my book. I am grateful that I listened to my wife's insistence. They are attentive to your needs and problems and are not afraid to deal with problems instantly. I highly recommend Dr. Gina Tobalina and her staff. read more

After my primary care doctor retired I attempted to see Dr. Tobalina as a new patient in 2016 based on reviews. I say attempted because I have been to her office for appointments 4-5 times and have never once been able to see her, nor have I ever even met her. I can't tell you how disappointed I am in this office. The front staff needs training in customer service, although I realize this is a business, the patient should not feel like a number; however the service I received from the front desk made me feel exactly that way. The staff was inattentive and more focused on each other than paying attention to what I was telling them, as I had to repeat myself several times. I should have known from the start when my first appointment for a physical was cancelled and rescheduled by Dr. Tobalina 3 times. When I finally did come in they were short staffed due to a social function and when I tried to be seen for something outside of what is covered in the "wellness visit" I was told I would have to pay an additional co-pay. I thought this to be ridiculous and in my 60 years have never had that type of thing occur before, my prior doctor was attentive to my concerns because isn't that what the doctor is supposed to do??? I said fine I'll pay because I don't have time to come back again when I'm already here. I was told no, they were already double booked and I would need to make another appointment (absolutely ridiculous). Most recently I had a feeling I had strep throat and called to get in to see the doctor or one of her assistants to try and get a diagnosis to start antibiotics. This was a Thursday and I was told I could not get in until Monday. I asked if someone could call me and perhaps prescribe an antibiotic instead of prolonging until Monday and was told I had to be seen first...WTF!!! I went to an Urgent Care and low and behold it was strep throat, they gave me an antibiotic (Z-PAC) and it's Sunday and I'm feeling 100% better. Thanks for the far less than caring service Dr. Tobalina, and for your pathetic staff!!! I rated the office a token one star because of Stephanie the P/A or Nurse Practitioner, I'm not sure which. Stephanie was good. Needless to say, I'm looking for another primary care provider. read more