Dr. Richard S Blankenbaker, MD

I was just there on the 15 May 2020. I felt that he took an interest in my health issues which is many??. He took the time to read my chart and knew what exactly was going on with me and told me exactly what my next steps were. He listened - did not rush me out the door. I had one other Dr like him and that was in Minnesota. I’m so very pleased! C Steele

Dr. Richard Blankenbaker refused to see me because he is best friends with my current cardiologist Dr. Lee Fredrick Carter. Apparently since his friend is seeing me, I’m not allowed to move to another cardiologist. Neither Dr. Lee Fredrick Carter would let me move on to another cardiologist nor Dr. Richard Stanfill Blankenbaker Jr would even consider me as a patient. These doctor’s havhavoir are unethical in my eyes. I spoke with both offices about my frustration and they were not considerate of my freedom to choose whoever I prefer as a cardiologist. I do not feel comfortable with Dr. Lee Carter any longer and wanted to explore other options, but since they are both doctors from Hoag, according to both docotrs, I am not able to look for another cardiologist. Dr. Lee carter is not giving me solutions I need and have actually found through other type of doctors. I call this the “good all boys club” monopolizing patient’s choices. It is appalling that both offices staff are also… TRAINED TO REFUSE this. It is not okay to use Hoag Hospital (which is a great hospital) as a tool to recruit or take advantage of patients who go there. This is MY LIFE, MY LIFE, MY CONDITION, MY CHOICE we are talking about here not just another folder they get to control and manipulate as they wish. These doctor ehavhavoir are unethical in my eyes. Does anyone have another recommendation for a cardiologist in Newport Beach, CA? SOmeone that can treat and also be a fair doctor?

Could not have had a better person. Very skilled and great bedside manner.

I am very grateful with Dr. Blankenbaker. After many years of suffering I finally met the right doctor. He did what others couldn't. He took my complaints very seriously, listened to me and understood my pain and frustration. After many tests and evaluations, he found what was wrong and diagnosed me. I am being treated and feel so much better. But most importantly, I know he is always there for me and trust him with my life.

This doctor helped me where others failed me and I will be forever grateful. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a cardiologist.

My father was referred to the other Dr in this practice but we were scheduled with Dr Blankenbaker instead. Our initial visit went smoothly, the wait time was about 10 minutes in the front lobby. Once we were escorted to a room, his vitals were taken then we moved to a second exam room. We waited less than 1 minute before Dr. Blankenbaker came in. This was amazing because my Mom's Nwpt Bch cardiologist is notorious for LONG wait time in the exam rooms which leads to a tedious visit and anxiety. Since only our 1st visit... time will tell, but Dr. Blankenbaker was in with us promptly! He listened carefully to us & was very thorough in his exam & explanations. He did not rush or make us feel like he had other rooms/patients to attend. He spoke clearly & loud enough for my 84yr old father to understand...& was a calm presence for my Dad who suffers early Parkinson's w/dementia. Since today was the 1st visit, I can't answer as to whether or not Dr B. will call to followup...but we did make… a 2nd appointment. My father said as we left - "He was great"! Thank you Dr. Blankenbaker.

I called the office to make an appointment. I told them my insurance and that I found I had liver cancer and was required to take some tests before they could list me for a transplant. It took repeated calls over a 3 week time span to finally be called back at 4;30 on a Friday to be told they actually do not take my insurance but can send me to another Dr. in December. This was potentially a life threating situation which I did explain to them. I will never call them again. I will never ever refer anyone.

My mom had to go to the ER, they called Dr. Blankenbaker that night and we were given his info for the following day. Boy did we hit the jackpot he is the nicest doctor. I go to all my mom's appointments with her and he explains everything to both of us, answers OUR questions and concerns and is very very patient. I highly recommend him and his staff is really great too. We have never had to wait that long either..

Just "the best". All I can or need to say. I am also a physician and recognize the care I am receiving immediately. His is superb...

He was spot on with diagnosis, explained options and risks so well that I felt relaxed and was able to ask many, many questions. He willingly spent extra time to help me wrap my brain around this new information. I appreciated his conservative approach -- but checks in with me frequently to see if anything had changed. His office staff is welcoming, efficient and accommodating. It appears to be well run and congenial -- it's always a fun, professional environment. I really trust Dr. Blamkenbaker!'