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Home > CA Providers > Endocrinologists

Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD

Accepting New Patients

(Karen A. Frankwich, MD)

(366 Ratings)

Specializes in: Endocrinology Diabetes & Metabolism

University of California, San Diego (UCSD), School of Medicine (2008)

Professional interests include: thyroid ultrasound, thyroid biopsy, diabetes, and more.

26800 CROWN VALLEY PARKWAY SUITE 230
Mission Viejo, CA 92691

(949) 542-8004

Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD is an endocrinologist in Mission Viejo, CA specializing in endocrinology diabetes & metabolism. She graduated from University of California, San Diego (UCSD), School of Medicine in 2008 and has 17 years of experience. Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD is affiliated with Providence Medical Foundation, Mission Heritage Medical Group and Mission Heritage Mission Viejo - Endocrinology.

Office Locations

Address:

26800 CROWN VALLEY PARKWAY SUITE 230
Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Some issues Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD can help you with:

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.

When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism
Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism
Goiter
Thyroid nodule
Thyroid cancer

Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.

Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.

Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.

The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.

Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

doctor visit	24

**Gender**
Male	18
Female	22

**Age**
From 65 to 74	20
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	0

Hypertension	68
High Cholesterol	68
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	40
Depression	0
Chronic Kidney Disease	0
Asthma	0
Osteoperosis	0
Atrial Fibrilation	30
Heart Failure	0
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	0
Diabetes	58
Dementia	0
Cancer	0

blood draw	95
diabetes management	30
doctor visit	359
lab tests	224
neck imaging	12
preventive care	50
thyroid function tests	94
ultrasound (sonogram)	12

**Gender**
Male	104
Female	258

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	326
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	208
From 75 to 84	98
85 and over	28
Less than 65	28

Hypertension	69
High Cholesterol	71
Stroke	9
Ischemic Heart Disease	36
Depression	20
Chronic Kidney Disease	38
Asthma	13
Osteoperosis	24
Atrial Fibrilation	17
Heart Failure	19
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	11
Diabetes	46
Dementia	9
Cancer	12

blood draw	149
diabetes management	57
doctor visit	532
lab tests	395
musculoskeletal imaging	9
neck imaging	35
preventive care	99
thyroid function tests	153
ultrasound (sonogram)	35
X-rays	9

**Gender**
Male	52
Female	167

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	183
Black	0
Hispanic	14
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	127
From 75 to 84	57
85 and over	23
Less than 65	12

Hypertension	71
High Cholesterol	75
Stroke	9
Ischemic Heart Disease	35
Depression	22
Chronic Kidney Disease	37
Asthma	11
Osteoperosis	23
Atrial Fibrilation	15
Heart Failure	17
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	7
Diabetes	40
Dementia	9
Cancer	9

blood draw	176
diabetes management	59
doctor visit	589
hospital care	35
inpatient care	35
lab tests	487
musculoskeletal imaging	20
neck imaging	46
preventive care	134
thyroid function tests	162
ultrasound (sonogram)	46
vaccines	10
X-rays	20

**Gender**
Male	57
Female	201

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	211
Black	0
Hispanic	20
Asian	13
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	140
From 75 to 84	86
85 and over	21
Less than 65	11

Hypertension	64
High Cholesterol	64
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	33
Depression	24
Chronic Kidney Disease	36
Asthma	7
Osteoperosis	29
Atrial Fibrilation	16
Heart Failure	17
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	10
Diabetes	40
Dementia	9
Cancer	12

blood draw	173
diabetes management	71
doctor visit	585
lab tests	529
musculoskeletal imaging	31
neck imaging	57
preventive care	154
thyroid function tests	169
ultrasound (sonogram)	57
vaccines	16
X-rays	31

**Gender**
Male	61
Female	207

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	224
Black	0
Hispanic	16
Asian	12
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	151
From 75 to 84	84
85 and over	22
Less than 65	11

Hypertension	62
High Cholesterol	72
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	30
Depression	18
Chronic Kidney Disease	34
Asthma	7
Osteoperosis	30
Atrial Fibrilation	15
Heart Failure	15
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	11
Diabetes	37
Dementia	9
Cancer	15

blood draw	161
diabetes management	88
doctor visit	618
lab tests	605
musculoskeletal imaging	45
neck imaging	68
preventive care	172
thyroid function tests	130
ultrasound (sonogram)	68
X-rays	45

**Gender**
Male	63
Female	245

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	262
Black	0
Hispanic	15
Asian	0
Other	14
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	192
From 75 to 84	85
85 and over	0
Less than 65	0

Hypertension	59
High Cholesterol	73
Stroke	4
Ischemic Heart Disease	27
Depression	18
Chronic Kidney Disease	34
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	30
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	12
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	8
Diabetes	35
Dementia	8
Cancer	13

blood draw	138
diabetes management	63
doctor visit	589
lab tests	488
musculoskeletal imaging	21
neck imaging	58
preventive care	138
thyroid function tests	114
ultrasound (sonogram)	58
X-rays	21

**Gender**
Male	64
Female	243

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	270
Black	0
Hispanic	14
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	178
From 75 to 84	97
85 and over	0
Less than 65	0

Hypertension	61
High Cholesterol	71
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	28
Depression	18
Chronic Kidney Disease	33
Asthma	7
Osteoperosis	28
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	10
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	7
Diabetes	36
Dementia	8
Cancer	11

blood draw	266
diabetes management	166
doctor visit	1315
lab tests	1217
musculoskeletal imaging	81
neck imaging	133
preventive care	337
thyroid function tests	307
ultrasound (sonogram)	133
X-rays	81

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2014 - 2021

Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD for Medicare patients.

The highest averages for the top procedures that Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD treated as an endocrinologist in Mission Viejo, CA were lab tests, blood draw, thyroid function tests and preventive care.

blood draw	165
diabetes management	76
doctor visit	576
hospital care	35
inpatient care	35
lab tests	565
musculoskeletal imaging	35
neck imaging	58
preventive care	155
thyroid function tests	162
ultrasound (sonogram)	58
vaccines	13
X-rays	35

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2014 - 2021

Information about Medicare patients treated by Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD.

**Gender**
Female	134
Male	41

**Ethnicity**
Black / African American	0
Asian / Pacific Islander	2
Non-Hispanic White	147
Native American / Alaskan Native	0
Hispanic	7
Other	1

**Age**
85 and over	9
75 to 84	50
Less than 65	6
65 to 74	101

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD From 2014 - 2021

The highest averages of the most common conditions of Medicare patients that Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD treated were high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes and ischemic heart disease.

Hypertension	45
High Cholesterol	49
Stroke	3
Ischemic Heart Disease	22
Depression	12
Chronic Kidney Disease	21
Asthma	5
Osteoporosis	16
Heart Failure	9
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	5
Diabetes	29
Atrial Fibrillation	11
Dementia	5
Cancer	7

Education & Training

Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD graduated from University of California, San Diego (UCSD), School of Medicine in 2008. She completed residency at University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Affiliated Hospitals. She is certified by the Board Certification: Endocrinology and has a state license in California.

Medical School: University of California, San Diego (UCSD), School of Medicine (2008)

Residency: University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Affiliated Hospitals (2011)

Board Certification: Board Certification: Endocrinology

Licensed In: California

Affiliations & Hospitals

Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:

Providence Medical Foundation

Mission Heritage Medical Group

Mission Heritage Mission Viejo - Endocrinology

Insurance Information

Please note: Insurance information may change at any time, and the provider may accept your insurance plan even if it is not listed below. Please contact the provider's office to confirm that your insurance is accepted.

Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD appears to accept the following insurance providers: Aetna PPO, Anthem Blue Cross HMO, Health Net HMO, SCAN Medicare Advantage, Aetna Medicare Advantage PPO, Cigna HMO, Vivity by Anthem Blue Cross, United Healthcare Medicare Advantage, Anthem Blue Cross PPO, Health Net PPO, Cigna PPO, Health Net Medicare Advantage, Blue Shield of CA Medicare Advantage, HealthSmart (Interplan) PPO, Blue Shield of CA HMO – Trio, Coventry/First Health PPO, United Healthcare HMO, Blue Shield of CA HMO, Blue Shield of CA PPO, Providence Medicare Advantage, Health Net - TriCare, Choice /Humana PPO, US Family Health Plan - TriCare, Anthem Blue Cross Medicare Advantage, Anthem Blue Cross Medicare PPO, Multiplan PPO, Aetna HMO, Aetna Medicare Advantage HMO, United HealthCare PPO, CIGNA PPO, Aetna Medicare PPO, CIGNA HMO, Medicare Advantage, MultiPlan PPO, United Healthcare PPO, Coventry PPO, United Healthcare HMO, Blue Shield of California, US Family Health Plan, United Healthcare, Anthem Blue Cross HMO, Humana, Anthem Blue Cross PPO, TRICARE, Anthem, Health Net PPO, Health Net HMO, HealthSmart, Providence, Aetna PPO, Aetna HMO and Insurance Plan.

Insurance Accepted by Provider includes:

According to our sources, Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD accepts the following insurance providers:

Aetna PPO

Anthem Blue Cross HMO

Health Net HMO

SCAN Medicare Advantage

Aetna Medicare Advantage PPO

Cigna HMO

Vivity by Anthem Blue Cross

United Healthcare Medicare Advantage

Anthem Blue Cross PPO

Health Net PPO

Cigna PPO

Health Net Medicare Advantage

Blue Shield of CA Medicare Advantage

HealthSmart (Interplan) PPO

Blue Shield of CA HMO – Trio

Coventry/First Health PPO

United Healthcare HMO

Blue Shield of CA HMO

Blue Shield of CA PPO

Providence Medicare Advantage

Health Net - TriCare

Choice /Humana PPO

US Family Health Plan - TriCare

Anthem Blue Cross Medicare Advantage

Anthem Blue Cross Medicare PPO

Multiplan PPO

Aetna HMO

Aetna Medicare Advantage HMO

United HealthCare PPO

CIGNA PPO

Aetna Medicare PPO

CIGNA HMO

Medicare Advantage

MultiPlan PPO

United Healthcare PPO

Coventry PPO

United Healthcare HMO

Blue Shield of California

US Family Health Plan

United Healthcare

Anthem Blue Cross HMO

Humana

Anthem Blue Cross PPO

TRICARE

Anthem

Health Net PPO

Health Net HMO

HealthSmart

Providence

Aetna PPO

Aetna HMO

Insurance Plan

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Ratings & Reviews

Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD has an exceptional overall rating with an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 366 ratings. We collect ratings and reviews of Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD from all over the web to help you find the right in Mission Viejo, CA.

4.9

Overall Rating

(366 Ratings)

Leave a Review

General Payments

These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Karen Ann Frankwich, MD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.

**Payments by Company**
Novo Nordisk Inc	$3,199 Saxenda $797	Tresiba $614	Victoza $492	Ozempic $375	Xultophy 100/3.6 $186	Other $734
Lilly USA, LLC	$2,911 TRULICITY $1,566	MOUNJARO $356	BASAGLAR $279	JARDIANCE $143	FORTEO $142	Other $427
Tosoh Bioscience, Inc.	$2,232 FOL, AIA-PACK, Calibrator Set $744	G8 Elution Buffer No. 1, 800mL $744	FSH, ST AIA-PACK $744
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP	$1,917 FARXIGA $1,325	BYDUREON PEN $257	BYDUREON WEEKLY $123	BYDUREON $119	CRESTOR $43	Other $50
SANOFI-AVENTIS U.S. LLC	$1,853 TOUJEO $766	PRALUENT $589	SOLIQUA 100/33 $149	SOLIQUA $135	LANTUS $106	Other $109
Other	$11,886 Synthroid $1,026	JARDIANCE $926	Repatha $908	Prolia $574	TANZEUM $569	Other $7,884

**Types of Payments**
Food and Beverage	$21,699
Gift	$2,232
Education	$64
Travel and Lodging	$4

Biography

Dr. Karen Frankwich sees patients in Mission Viejo, CA. Her medical specialty is endocrinology. She is a graduate of the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), School of Medicine. Dr. Frankwich's training includes a residency program at a hospital affiliated with the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). Areas of expertise for Dr. Frankwich include diabetes, thyroid problems, and pituitary disorders. Dr. Frankwich's patients gave her an average rating of 5.0 stars (out of 5). She is an in-network provider for several insurance carriers, including Anthem, Blue California, and HealthSmart. She is affiliated with Providence Medical Foundation. Dr. Frankwich welcomes new patients at her office inMission Viejo, CA as reported by Providence Medical Foundation.