Specialty Obstetrics of San Diego

We used to see the perinatologist, I won’t mention names, for my first 2 pregnancies and when I found out I was having a 3^rd, I asked my obgyn if there was anyone else we could see. We were referred here, and thank God! It was like night and day. 1.) The receptionists were very friendly. My husband was inquiring about a vending machine in the building and they offered him a can of soda which was very nice. 2.) The facility is gorgeous. Everything is brand new and state of the art. 3.) The ultrasound tech was very friendly. She was determined to get great shots of the baby, including 4d at approximately 13 weeks gestation. 4) Dr. Gallin was very personable and friendly. She, too, tried to get us good 4d print out to take home. 5.) It’s covered by our insurance, Sharp Health Plan.
We have another appointment next month and I look forward to returning.

5 Stars does not describe the excellence in every aspect of Specialty Obstetrics. This practice deserves 10 stars! When I found out I was pregnancy with my second child, I knew that I had to seek care from the best of the best as my obstetrics history consisted of 3 second-​trimester losses and my fourth pregnancy resulting in my daughter being born at 28 weeks (she was born in VA so I had to find a new OB). I did my research, spoke to doctors, and read reviews on Unilocal,google, and checked out the website of prospective doctors/​practices. I found Specialty Obstetrics matched what I was looking for in a Maternal Fetal Medicine practice. The physicians were well-​versed in high-​risk pregnancies. When I went to the office I was immediately impressed with the staff and the really nice office which was not crowded and I felt comfortable enough that I looked forward to my visits. I always felt better after visiting specialty obstetrics for many reasons. Everyone… I mean everyone, the receptionist, the doctors, the nurses and the ultrasound technicians were so amazing and caring! My main doctor was Dr. Deurbeck — he is a character and comical! — he has a lot of experience behind him. He listened to my concerns and developed a plan that met my needs. Eventhough Dr. Deurbeck delivered my daughter (she was born at 30 weeks due to severe preclampsia), I also saw Dr. Hornstein at the office and saw Dr. Dowling every day for a week when I was on bedrest at Mary Birch. Because of these group of doctors, my daughter is alive and doing so well! She didn’t need a breathing tube at birth, she did not have a brain bleed that is common among preemies, and she was on oxygen for only a week! The medical assistant, Carmen — although she’s moved onto another practice — was absolutely fantastic! She was very caring and helpful. She returned my call and emails promptly. She would follow-​up with me to make sure that I was able to get my prescription refills or whatever I needed. The ladies at the front desk are so sweet! They greet you when you walk-​in and always have a smile on their face. The ultrasound techs were awesome! Eventhough I had an ultrasound every 2 weeks, they still explained what they were doing and looking at.
To sum it up, I had the most wonderful experience from day one with Specialty Obstetrics of San Diego. They are the gurus of high-​risk pregnancy. If I was to get pregnant, again, I would definitely seek care from them in a heartbeat! I have a very complicated obstetric history and I would not trust any other practice to see me through a pregnancy and deliver my baby.
I also have to add that I live in Eastlake Chula Vista and I drove all the way to Del Mar because Specialty Obstetrics is THAT GOOD!

Went for my anatomy screening. It was a very comforting environment and the doctor was great. I was nervous and excited to go and walked out with complete relief and felt very taken care of. Brooke at the front office is the best. She took care of me from setting my appointment to answering many questions. Thank you!!!

Horrible doctors. Dr dowling misdiagnosed my wife and as a result of him not treating her, it could have been disastrous for the pregnancy. Luckily we switched doctors and they found it and treated right away.
Staff is also horrible. Cindy, their office manager, is really rude and unprofessional.
They may have a pretty waiting room and fancy equipment but the doctors are horrible and shouldn’t be practicing.

I was originally referred to Dr. Dowling, and at first I was really excited, until I had a negative personal experience with the office manager Carmen. Mind you, I was already upset with them because I wanted to try a vbac, which was not really supported by this group. At about 34 weeks, I mentioned to Carmen that I wanted to go on disability at 36 or 37 weeks. My job is extremely stressful and my commute home is over an hour, so driving was starting to become very uncomfortable for me as the baby was positioned very low. She mentioned that I would have to work until 40 weeks or take unpaid leave. I told her that Miramar was far away from the hospital I planned on giving birth at, which is also the hospital that was preferred by my insurance company. After I told her that, she said to me ‘any hospital will deliver a baby’. ARE YOU SERIOUS!!! What kind of response is that. If I did go into labor while at work, I would be at a different hospital with different doctors, and unaware of my insurance coverage. I was so stressed out by her response that I left the office crying and decided it was time for me to look for another doctor. Not only did I find another doctor, but I found one that supported me 100%. He mentioned I could go on disability as soon as I needed because after all that money does come out of my paycheck. Most important he supported my decision to try a vbac. The decision I made to leave this group has been the best decision for my pregnancy. Talk about night and day difference. On a side note, I wanted to go back to them for an ultrasound and after they found out I had switched doctors they told me that they had received a notice that my insurance was suspended (not true) and that they were no longer covered under my insurance. Coincidence, I think not; so if I wanted to get an ultrasound it would cost me over $ 300.00. If you are considering a vbac instead of major abdominal surgery look elsewhere, this is not the place for you.

IF I COULD GIVE SPECIALTY OBSTETRICS 6 STARS I WOULD! They provided my family and I with superior care! I could not be more grateful that such amazing doctors and staff will always be a part of the most special time of my life:
Dr. Dowling — Delivered my precious baby boy. He has a very gentle, soft spoken and knowledgeable approach. From the first consultation my husband and I had, we knew he was «our guy». Every interaction was like meeting up with an old (super smart) friend! He also broke things down in «us» lame men’s terms (ie — my son was Frank Breech and Dr. Dowling described him as being in the diver’s pike position — little things like this made things much easier to visualize and understand). Most importantly he delivered our son via c-​section –perfectly! There were no complications at all with the delivery and my incision is barely noticeable! (the nurses in the hospital commented that it was the «Hollywood incision»).
Dr. Duerbeck — I credit Dr. Duerbeck with saving my son’s life! (I am tearing up as I write this). I had pre-​term labor when I was 6 mo’s pregnant (on Easter Sunday no less). I called him and he met us at Mary Birch within the hr. Now, from my appnts with Dr. Duerbeck, I knew him to be a funny, easy going Dr., who would advise me to take it easy and enjoy the ride. He was extremely calm in his demeanor but explained that I would have to be admitted to stop this baby from coming. He then began ordering up my meds to the nurses in a serious manner. Because of his quick action, he stopped the labor and my son’s life! (or quality of life — which to me is the same thing).
Carmen — My dear sweet Carmen. She is essentially the nurse for the office. She is in a word — wonderful! Not only is she beyond sweet (you feel like you have your own personal cheerleader) but she is so quick to handle those tedious administrative things for work (ie filling out and sending docs required by my work and or the state), and if you are a working mom like me — this is essential in gaining peace of mind and maintaining your sanity in preparation for your maternity leave.
Last but certainly not least there is Brooke the front desk go-​to person. She was so great about scheduling appointments and coordinating with my insurance! I feel like I barely had to do anything at all!
IF YOU ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO GET A REFERRAL TO SPECIALTY OBSTETRICS — GO. YOU WILL LOVE THE EXPERIENCE!

My one star review is based upon my personal experiences with the office manager– Cindy. I have never been more belittled, frustrated, and neglected. There are many many many doctors in the Greater San Diego area, and I wonder how long it will take this office to realize that customer service will provide free referrals, more visits, more copays, and higher revenues!
It’s because of offices like these that big HMO’s are doing soo well! If private practice physicians hire staff that doesn’t treat customers well, we will go elsewhere!

I was referred to specialty obstetrics for my first pregnancy when I needed ultrasounds done. I liked them so much that I returned for full care for my second pregnancy. They were always professional, kind, supportive and even playful which eased my mind during the ups and downs. I was lucky enough to have Dr. Duerbeck deliver my daughter via c-​section (she came a week earlier than planned) and throughout he was amazing. He kept everything light and effortless as he was cracking jokes and making me laugh during surgery! The receptionists were friendly and took the time to connect while I waited for my appointments. I never felt I needed to wait very long either. I was generally able to get in and out quickly. On my final appointment Dr. duerbeck took a picture with me and my little angel making me feel like a part of the specialty obstetrics family. Based on my experience I definitely recommend them!

Had an appointment with my wife today. We went in, got greeted right away and checked in very quickly. The staff was very friendly and very helpful. The facility itself was very nice and clean, being a physician I can really appreciate this. Everyone that helped us was amazing. I would highly recommend this facility and office if you have the choice to come here. The doctor was wonderful and comforting. We had a great experience.

Worst appointment ever.
Upon walking in, 3 women sitting at front desk. None greet me and when I tell them I’m there for an appt. one in particular is so rude, I almost cancelled my appt. right there. Seriously, she acted as if I was inconvienencing her day. Um, sorry, I thought this was your job. If you’re having a bad day, fake it or take the day off.
While doing my ultrasound, lady was nice but not talkative and it was awkward. She started to get frustrated that the baby wasn’t cooperating. Shit happens! I mean, hello? You might want to hire pleasant people.
I had to wait well over 30 mins to then see a genetic counselor. Who then wants me to sign a billing form, but can’t tell me if the session is covered by insurance! Then, she gets pissy when I decline.
It was a horrible experience. I do not recommend this place at all!!!

We made an appointment with Dr. Duerbeck, based on research. We chose him over Dr. Dowling, as we found the fact that Dr. Dowling has an MBA bizarre… I mean what good doctor has the time to get an MBA and why? (maybe cares a lot about $$$)
in any case upon arriving we were surprised to find out the clinic casually assigned us a different doctor. No explanation was given. When we asked why we were not seeing Dr. Duerbeck as we requested, we encountered a defensive, even childish reaction from Dr. Dowling.
The place was empty, the staff was cold. Dr. Dowling was awful. Snappy, arrogant and corporate

THIS PLACE SUCKS!!! They have horrible customer service. I went in for an ultrasound and while the front desk was still processing my information and my insurance information, I was called in. When I left, I forgot that the dumb receptionist had not given my insurance card and my drivers license back to me. (Normally all that is taken care of before my appt) Anyways, they had called and left a voicemail that they had my information, but I had dropped my phone in the ocean and did not get the message until a couple weeks later when I got a new phone. They only called the one time and never tried reaching out to me again. I made a few attempts to call them at various days and times when I could in between working and taking care of my 10 month old, but EVERY TIME I called, I would get the after hours number, even at 1 pm on a friday. Plus, they only tried calling me one time. When I finally got in touch with someone today, they told me that because I never called back they SHREDDED my drivers license and my insurance card. WTF??? Shredded my driver’s license. Did it ever occur to them to try calling me again or mailing it to me, it has my f&*%ing address on it. So annoyed and they acted like it was no big deal. I will never go to a place so unprofessional ever again.

I have NEVER been more disappointed w/​a medical facility. Once Dr Dowling heard we were NOT interested in having an amnio, his attitude changed. He was completely unprofessional with terrible bedside manner. He blurted out a diagnosis of chromosome abnormality off of a 15 week ultrasound. Said he guessed it was Turners Syndrome which was better than Down’s Syndrome because she would only have mild retardation… his words. He kept trying to change our mind regarding the amnio, and when we told him it wasn’t going to change anything for us either way, his only response was that there was «power in knowledge». When my husband asked if there was a possibility of things looking better when we came back for our appt at 21 weeks, his abrupt response was «NO»! Let me fast fwd 3 weeks… had a new and improved perinatologist and guess what??? The findings that Dr Dowling found are gone! Extremely disappointed w/​this man’s lack of compassion, and evidently lack of KNOWLEDGE! I will continue to tell everyone and anyone who asks, what a terrible experience we had!!! SHAME ON THIS MAN!

Dr Dowling is the best doctor! We just love him. He is very knowledgeable, and really takes the time… He is so kind and is a great listener. I feel in good hands being in his care, and I am usually always a little apprehensive with having trust in a doctor, not with him. thank God for doctors like him, I am lucky to have found him.

I would 100% recommend this practice to anyone! Both Dr. Dowling and Dr. Duerbeck are kind, patient, and make you feel very comfortable during some stressful times. They take the time to explain things and answer your questions. They are genuinely interested in you and your baby’s well-​being and it’s refreshing to have medical professionals care so much.
The office interior is beautiful and the staff are friendly and always greet you with your name and a smile. I never waited more than ten minutes past my appointment which is good for a medical office.

Much like Pablo M, my wife and I was referred here. This is our first baby and the first time we have seen our baby move, yawn, stretch from the ultrasound. Sue was knowledgeable and personable! The reception staff was professional and friendly. We saw our baby and they answered all my wife’s questions with a patient attitude and without condescension.
We did not feel like we were being mishandled in any way. I would refer my loved ones here.

Was referred here by my OB for an amniocentesis when I was pregnant with my daughter in 2011. Dr. Dowling was professional, competent, and had the best bedside manner. The thought of having a 3-​inch needle stick into your pregnant belly can be frightening. By explaining to me in plain words what to expect, Dr. Dowling put me considerably more at ease than when I first walked into the exam room. Dr. Dowling is extremely gentle. (unfortunately the same cannot be said for all OBs) I hardly felt the needle coming in, and the whole thing was over in what felt like a few seconds.
I second the other reviewer’s comments about the ultrasound specialist. She was very helpful and thorough.
Ah, yes, the office is posh, and the receptionist asked if I wanted something to drink. Very pleasant experience overall.

I did not like this place. They seem to be selling blood work and tests to vulnerable pregnant women. At first I took the bait, but I thought about it and realized I felt milked for my insurance. Nice place, but I have had better more professional perinatal care else where.

My wife and I had a wonderful visit with Specialty Obstetrics today. Sue, the ultrasound specialist, was incredibly helpful with us as she walked us through the entire ultrasound exam. She told us what she was doing at every step of the way and gave us a lot of positive feedback as she went. It may not sound like much, but it seems like the medical field (as busy and driven by insurance bureaucrats as it is) doesn’t often take the time to keep the patient in the loop. We were definitely well educated and well taken care of. The doctor and genetic counselor were also very helpful. The only downer was that we got there on time and still had to wait 15 minutes to start our exam. Strange, no one in the office but us and it seemed to be the start of the day, then three more couples cam in and we all just sat there waiting… Not a long wait, however. The office is beautiful as well, so that helped.