Finding a healthcare provider who truly listens feels a lot like finding a needle in a haystack, doesn’t it? You might be scrolling through insurance directories late at night, overwhelmed by names, unfamiliar abbreviations, and conflicting reviews. It is a stressful spot to be in, especially when your health—or the health of a loved one—is on the line.
Long Beach is home to some of Southern California’s most prestigious medical centers, including Long Beach Memorial and St. Mary Medical Center. But having access to world-class hospitals doesn’t automatically match you with the right physician for your specific personality and needs. Some patients need a specialist who focuses on cutting-edge data; others need a family doctor who asks about the kids.
We analyzed the local healthcare scene to cut through the noise. We looked past the glossy advertisements to find physicians who demonstrate consistent excellence, peer recognition, and, most importantly, genuine care for their patients.
🚀 Quick Takeaways
- Board Certification Matters: Always verify that a specialist is board-certified in their specific field, not just general medicine.
- Hospital Affiliation: Doctors with admitting privileges at top-rated facilities like Long Beach Memorial generally adhere to stricter peer-review standards.
- Wait Times vs. Quality: The best doctors in Long Beach often have longer waitlists. Booking 2-3 weeks out is standard for top-tier primary care.
- Specialization Trends: We are seeing a shift toward preventative functional medicine among the city’s top-rated internists.
How We Identified These Top-Rated Physicians
You deserve transparency regarding how a list like this comes together. It isn’t about who has the biggest marketing budget. Instead, we focused on the metrics that actually impact your patient experience and health outcomes.
Clinical Experience & Longevity
We prioritized physicians who have navigated the medical field for over a decade. Experience brings a nuanced understanding of complex cases that textbooks simply cannot teach.
Peer Recognition
Doctors know who the “good doctors” are. We looked for professionals frequently cited by their peers in local medical surveys and leadership roles within hospital departments.
Patient Satisfaction Trends
One bad review doesn’t define a career, but patterns do. We analyzed sentiment regarding bedside manner, clarity of explanation, and follow-up care. A brilliant diagnostician who refuses to explain the diagnosis to the patient did not make this cut.
Modern Methodology
Healthcare is moving fast. The physicians selected here demonstrate a commitment to continuing education, utilizing the latest minimally invasive techniques or diagnostic tools available in 2025 and heading into 2026.
List of 10 Best Doctors in Long Beach
| SNO | Name | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dr. Steven W. Taber | Individuals looking for a long-term “medical home” to manage overall wellness. |
| 2 | Dr. Amir Abolhoda | Patients requiring complex heart or lung interventions who want a surgeon with a top-tier safety record. |
| 3 | Dr. Alice P. Police | Women seeking compassionate, state-of-the-art breast cancer treatment or high-risk screening. |
| 4 | Dr. Peter Kurzweil | Athletes and active adults dealing with joint injuries. |
| 5 | Dr. Mark Constantino | Adults with complex medical histories needing a strong coordinator for their healthcare. |
| 6 | Dr. Ramy Elias | Seniors or adults suffering from severe arthritis requiring joint replacement. |
| 7 | Dr. Gail Simpson | Patients dealing with immunological challenges or complex infections. |
| 8 | Dr. Pejman Bady | Anyone with a family history of heart disease looking for proactive management. |
| 9 | Dr. Homayoun Sanati | Patients navigating a new cancer diagnosis requiring systemic therapy. |
| 10 | Dr. Douglas C. Garland | Patients with chronic back pain or spinal issues seeking a seasoned opinion. |
Top 10 Doctors in Long Beach
This list represents a cross-section of excellence, ranging from primary care gatekeepers to highly specialized surgeons. These professionals have consistently demonstrated why they are leaders in the Long Beach medical community.
1. Dr. Steven W. Taber (Family Medicine)
When you talk to locals about dependable primary care, Dr. Taber’s name comes up constantly. He represents the quintessential family physician—the kind who remembers your medical history without staring at a computer screen for the entire visit.
Why He Stands Out:
Dr. Taber excels in preventative care and managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. His approach is holistic; he tends to look at lifestyle factors just as closely as lab results. Patients frequently mention his calm demeanor and willingness to explain the “why” behind a prescription.
Best Suited For: Individuals looking for a long-term “medical home” to manage overall wellness.
2. Dr. Amir Abolhoda (Cardiothoracic Surgery)
Heart surgery is terrifying for patients and families. Dr. Abolhoda has built a reputation for turning that fear into confidence. Affiliated with MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute, he is a heavyweight in the field of thoracic oncology and cardiac surgery.
Professional Highlights:
He is known for expertise in minimally invasive valve repairs and complex lung surgeries. His technical skills are backed by a bedside manner that is surprisingly warm for a high-stakes surgeon. He takes the time to draw diagrams and ensure families understand the procedure.
Best Suited For: Patients requiring complex heart or lung interventions who want a surgeon with a top-tier safety record.
3. Dr. Alice P. Police (Breast Surgery)
Navigating a cancer diagnosis requires a doctor who is part scientist, part advocate. Dr. Police has dedicated her career to breast health and oncology. She has been a pivotal figure in advancing breast cancer care in the region.
Why She Stands Out:
Dr. Police is not just a surgeon; she is a researcher. Her focus on oncoplastic surgery—removing the cancer while preserving the cosmetic appearance of the breast—has helped countless women maintain their confidence post-recovery. Her team is known for rapid coordination, reducing the agonizing wait time between diagnosis and treatment.
Best Suited For: Women seeking compassionate, state-of-the-art breast cancer treatment or high-risk screening.
4. Dr. Peter Kurzweil (Orthopedic Sports Medicine)
If you blew out a knee playing weekend warrior or have a high school athlete with a torn ACL, Dr. Kurzweil is likely the referral you will get. He has served as a team physician for professional sports teams, bringing that same level of elite care to the general public.
Professional Highlights:
Specializing in arthroscopic surgery of the knee and shoulder, Dr. Kurzweil focuses on getting patients back to activity, not just patching them up. He is conservative with surgery, often recommending physical therapy or other interventions before suggesting the operating room.
Best Suited For: Athletes and active adults dealing with joint injuries.
5. Dr. Mark Constantino (Internal Medicine)
Internal medicine physicians are the detectives of the medical world. Dr. Constantino has earned high marks for his diagnostic thoroughness. Based in the Los Altos neighborhood, he manages complex adult health issues with a rigorous, evidence-based approach.
Why He Stands Out:
Patients appreciate his efficiency. While he runs a tight ship, you rarely feel rushed during the actual consultation. He is particularly adept at managing patients with multiple comorbidities (like having both heart disease and diabetes) where treatments might conflict.
Best Suited For: Adults with complex medical histories needing a strong coordinator for their healthcare.
6. Dr. Ramy Elias (Orthopedic Surgery)
Joint pain can rob you of your quality of life. Dr. Elias focuses on hip and knee replacements, utilizing modern robotic-assisted techniques that allow for greater precision and faster recovery times.
Professional Highlights:
Dr. Elias is affiliated with Long Beach Memorial and is known for his “rapid recovery” protocols. Many of his patients are walking hours after surgery. His clarity regarding what rehabilitation will look like helps set realistic expectations from day one.
Best Suited For: Seniors or adults suffering from severe arthritis requiring joint replacement.
7. Dr. Gail Simpson (Infectious Disease)
In a post-pandemic world, the value of a top-tier infectious disease specialist is undeniable. Dr. Simpson has been a pillar in the Long Beach medical community for decades, particularly in the realm of HIV/AIDS care and complex viral infections.
Why She Stands Out:
Her work is often described as a calling rather than a job. Dr. Simpson provides non-judgmental, cutting-edge care for difficult diagnoses. Her affiliation with academic institutions means she is always at the forefront of new drug therapies and clinical trials.
Best Suited For: Patients dealing with immunological challenges or complex infections.
8. Dr. Pejman Bady (Cardiology)
Preventative cardiology is Dr. Bady’s forte. Rather than waiting for a heart attack to happen, he utilizes advanced imaging and stress testing to catch issues early. He is interventional, meaning he can perform catheter-based procedures when necessary.
Professional Highlights:
Dr. Bady is praised for his accessibility. While many cardiologists feel distant, he maintains a direct line of communication with his patients. His explanation of cardiovascular health often involves simple lifestyle tweaks rather than just heavy medication protocols.
Best Suited For: Anyone with a family history of heart disease looking for proactive management.
9. Dr. Homayoun Sanati (Medical Oncology)
Cancer care is multidisciplinary, and Dr. Sanati serves as the quarterback for his patients. Specializing in hematology and oncology, he guides patients through chemotherapy and immunotherapy with a gentle hand.
Why He Stands Out:
Dr. Sanati is known for honesty. He balances hope with realism, ensuring patients understand their prognosis and options. His office staff is frequently cited in reviews as being incredibly supportive, navigating the nightmare of insurance authorizations so patients can focus on healing.
Best Suited For: Patients navigating a new cancer diagnosis requiring systemic therapy.
10. Dr. Douglas C. Garland (Orthopedic Surgery)
Another heavy hitter in the orthopedic space, Dr. Garland brings decades of experience to the table. While some surgeons narrow their focus, Dr. Garland has a broad expertise that includes spine and joint reconstruction.
Professional Highlights:
Experience counts in surgery. Dr. Garland has seen the evolution of orthopedic techniques and knows what works long-term versus what is just a fad. His surgical outcomes for spinal issues are particularly well-regarded in the Southern California region.
Best Suited For: Patients with chronic back pain or spinal issues seeking a seasoned opinion.
What Defines a “Great” Doctor in Long Beach?
Long Beach is a unique ecosystem. It is a big city with a small-town vibe, and the medical expectations reflect that. We noticed that excellent care here goes beyond the diploma on the wall.
Cultural Competence
Long Beach is incredibly diverse. The best doctors here understand how cultural backgrounds influence health beliefs. They use translators effectively and respect dietary or religious restrictions when prescribing treatment plans.
Network Integration
Medicine is a team sport. A great primary care doctor is only as good as their referral network. Top-rated physicians have direct lines to the best specialists at Cedars-Sinai, UCLA, or UCI Health if a case becomes too complex for local handling.
Technological Accessibility
It is 2025. You shouldn’t have to fax a form to get a refill. The leading doctors listed above utilize secure portals (like MyChart) allowing you to view lab results and message the nurse directly. This digital layer reduces anxiety and keeps you connected to your care team.
Interestingly, these standards hold true across the country. For example, when we analyzed the top 10 doctors in Little Rock 2026 edition, we found the exact same emphasis on digital access and cultural awareness, proving that patients everywhere are demanding a more modern healthcare experience.
Choosing the Right Physician for Your Needs
Before you pick up the phone to schedule an appointment with one of the doctors above, take a moment to strategize. Here is a framework to ensure you make the right match.
1. The “Interview” Appointment
Did you know you can book a consultation just to meet a doctor? It might cost a copay, but it is worth it. Ask them: “What is your philosophy on antibiotics?” or “How quickly can I reach you in an emergency?” Their reaction to these questions will tell you everything you need to know about their communication style.
2. Check Hospital Privileges
If you have a complex condition, you want a doctor who has admitting privileges at a major hospital like Long Beach Memorial. If they only have privileges at a surgical center, they cannot treat you if complications arise requiring an ICU.
3. Verify Insurance Coverage (The Right Way)
Don’t just ask “Do you take Blue Cross?” That is too vague. Ask, “Are you in-network for Blue Cross PPO plan X?” Medical practices often drop specific plan tiers without warning. Calling the billing department directly is safer than relying on an outdated website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an appointment with a top doctor in Long Beach?
For highly rated specialists or primary care physicians, expect a wait time of 2 to 4 weeks for a new patient appointment. However, most offices keep “urgent slots” open for acute issues. If your need is pressing, ask to be put on the cancellation list.
Are the doctors at Long Beach Memorial better than private practice doctors?
Not necessarily “better,” but different. Doctors employed directly by a large hospital system often have easier access to integrated records and swift referrals. Private practice doctors may offer a more personalized, less corporate feel but might rely on outside labs for testing.
What should I do if I don’t click with a doctor on this list?
Trust your gut. Medical competence is mandatory, but rapport is essential. If you don’t feel heard, it is perfectly acceptable to switch providers. Request your medical records be transferred; it is a standard administrative procedure and you don’t need to provide a reason.
Do these doctors offer telemedicine?
Most of the physicians listed have integrated telehealth for follow-ups, especially for reviewing lab results or medication management. However, for initial diagnostic visits, they will almost always require an in-person physical exam to ensure accuracy.
Your Next Steps to Better Health
Your health is your most valuable asset, and choosing the manager of that asset shouldn’t be a snap decision. The doctors listed above represent the gold standard in Long Beach, but the “best” doctor is ultimately the one who makes you feel safe and understood.
Don’t wait for a medical emergency to establish a relationship with a provider. Here is what you should do this week:
- Check your insurance portal to confirm which of these doctors are currently in-network.
- Read recent reviews from the last 3 months to see if office wait times have changed.
- Call and book a wellness exam. Even if you feel fine, getting into the system now ensures you have a lifeline when you eventually need it.
Take control of your healthcare journey today. A great doctor is out there waiting to help you live your healthiest life.
