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315 verified Allergists in San Francisco, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 06/09/2026
Availability last updated 06/09/2026
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·12 reviews
1.5 mi · 110 Sutter St, 6th Fl, San Francisco, CA 94104
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I enjoy building relationships with patients and working with them to better their health through comprehensive, evidence-based care. Compassionate and open-minded, I encourage open communication and collaboration with my patients. I believe health education with a focus on disease prevention is vit...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
2 mi · 2196 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 6 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Ms. Natalia Poleschuk is a highly skilled family nurse practitioner in San Francisco, CA. She sees patients both in-person and virtually at Free Association Clinic. Ms. Poleschuk earned her master's degree in family health nursing from the United States University. She provides routine checkups, he...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
San Francisco, CA
Accepts BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ms. Natalia Poleschuk is a highly skilled family nurse practitioner in San Francisco, CA. She sees patients both in-person and virtually at Free Association Clinic. Ms. Poleschuk earned her master's degree in family health nursing from the United States University. She provides routine checkups, he...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician
1 mi · 580 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience ·
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I am an experienced family physician who is dedicated to providing compassionate, thorough and evidence-based care to members of our community. I am a clear communicator, skilled in providing preventive care as well as treating chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and sleep issues. Afte...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·3 reviews
2 mi · Four Embarcadero Ctr, Lobby Level (2nd Fl), San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I believe in the power of preventive care and healthy habits. I enjoy a compassionate, evidence-based approach to treatment options. I'm especially interested in preventive care, hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and sports medicine. To stay healthy, I love to cook, take barre classes, and garden. I a...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·1 review
1.5 mi · 559 Clay St 1st Fl, San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · 22 years of experience · Highly recommended ·
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I aim to offer thorough, evidence-based care with a focus on prevention. Together, let's tackle any health issues and put your mental well-being first on our journey to wellness. I love to read, walk, paddle board, do yoga and travel to stay healthy and happy.Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·6 reviews
2 mi · Four Embarcadero Ctr, Lobby Level (2nd Fl), San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I became a primary care provider because of my interest in preventive medicine and building long-term relationships. My approach to medicine involves listening and empowering patients to take ownership of their health. I also realize the importance of mental health in all aspects of life. As such, I...Click to read more
Internist
1.5 mi · 559 Clay St 1st Fl, San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients ·
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As a dual board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Sports Medicine, I take a whole-body, integrative approach to care—blending evidence-based medicine with an understanding of physical fitness and musculoskeletal health. My passion lies in treating musculoskeletal injuries; helping active ...Click to read more
Internist
1 mi · 45 Castro St, Ste 423, San Francisco, CA 94114
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in chronic kidney disease + 4 more ·
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Dr. Moskowitz is a board-certified internal medicine physician with more than 30 years of experience caring for adults throughout the Bay Area. His career spans private practice, hospital medicine, transitional care, urgent care, and hospice leadership. He has dedicated his work to providing accessi...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 11
Family Physician
5.00
·4 reviews
1.5 mi · 559 Clay St 1st Fl, San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I believe in partnering with patients to achieve their health goals. I'm passionate about preventive medicine and osteopathic manipulation. I also think it's important to support not just a person's physical health, but also their emotional and mental well-being. How I stay healthy and happy: Exerc...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·4 reviews
2 mi · Two Embarcadero Center, Lobby Level, San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am a compassionate provider. I believe in developing relationships with patients to help empower and guide them to meet their health goals. With over 10 years of experience working at renowned academic hospitals, I am comfortable caring for individuals and families of all backgrounds and walks of ...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·13 reviews
2 mi · Two Embarcadero Center, Lobby Level, San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am a compassionate provider who uses a holistic and patient-centered approach to medicine, prioritizing building relationships with patients that help support and guide them to optimize health outcomes. I enjoy caring for all individuals from various backgrounds and welcome people of all gender id...Click to read more
Dermatologist
4.79
·432 reviews
Fast and professional appointment. Rick was very nice and had great skin care advice. - Jul 24, 2019Click to read more
1 mi · 450 Sutter St, Rm 1306, San Francisco, CA 94108
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 76 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
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We will be conducting virtual patient encounters during the COVID-19 pandemic using a HIPAA-compliant platform. By scheduling your appointment, you consent to this TeleMedicine consult. At the time of your appointment, you will receive an invitation by email with a virtual link-please respond to ...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jun 11
Internist
5.00
·7 reviews
Dr. Bowden was really great! Highly recommend. - Jun 4, 2026 by Michael F.Click to read more
2 mi · 201 Spear St, Ste 230, San Francisco, CA 94105
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I create an attentive rapport with my patients using an evidence-based and holistic approach to treatment. I am particularly interested in patients with musculoskeletal injuries, concussions, and in using fitness for health promotion. As a sports medicine specialist, I focus on maximizing the benefi...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·3 reviews
2.5 mi · 840 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I’m passionate about providing compassionate, full-spectrum care that treats the whole person—not just the illness. I strive to build strong, lasting relationships with my patients, caring for each one as I would my own family. My approach to medicine is rooted in partnership and trust. I focus on p...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
1.5 mi · 2410 California St, San Francisco, CA 94115
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients ·
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As a family nurse practitioner, I believe in taking a holistic approach to patient care. I strive to understand not only your physical health concerns but also your emotional well-being and the unique dynamics of your family. By actively listening to your concerns and understanding your health goals...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·9 reviews
1 mi · 580 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · 17 years of experience · Highly recommended ·
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I value empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health. I respect patients' values and personal needs and work collaboratively with them to maintain and improve their health. I received formal training from the University of Arizona and gained experience working as a family physic...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·9 reviews
1 mi · 2355 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am passionate about working with patients to identify and work towards their health and wellness goals through collaboration and whole-person care. My goal is to create a safe space to empower patients to establish and maintain wellbeing in a realistic and sustainable way. How I stay healthy and ...Click to read more
Allergist
5.00
·2 reviews
- Dec 26, 2025 by Cittlalli S.Click to read more
9 mi · 5709 Market St, Oakland, CA 94608
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Michael LeNoir M.D. is an allergist and pediatrician who has practiced pediatrics and clinical allergy full time since 1977. He is board certified by and a fellow of both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and in 2014 was elected and served ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician
5.00
·7 reviews
1.5 mi · 1823 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 3 more ·
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I am a family physician committed to supporting patients in achieving and sustaining long-term health. I focus on practical, evidence-informed care and value steady, respectful partnerships built over time.Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·8 reviews
2 mi · 3490 California St, Ste 203, San Francisco, CA 94118
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Bay Area native who strives to form long-term relationships with patients through open communication and working collaboratively with them. I incorporate evidence-based medicine with understanding patients' personal goals to create individualized care. Outside of work, I enjoy dancing, hiking...Click to read more
Nurse Practitioner
4.67
·3 reviews
1 mi · 2355 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients ·
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I believe that building a strong patient-provider relationship is key to achieving goals and managing health problems. I strive to be a supportive provider using evidence-based medicine and tailoring it to a patient's individual needs. I care for all ages, sexes, and genders, with particular interes...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·8 reviews
1 mi · 2355 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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My approach as a doctor is to partner with my patients to help determine what is important to them as we make medical decisions together. My areas of interest include preventive medicine, LGBTQ+ care, STD/HIV prevention & treatment, women's health, prenatal care, and management of chronic diseases. ...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner
2 mi · Two Embarcadero Center, Lobby Level, San Francisco, CA 94111
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients ·
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Attentive and approachable, I am sensitive to the unique needs of each individual patient. I value preventive medicine and focus on building and maintaining relationships with patients in order to help them achieve healthier lives. I have experience in adult and adolescent primary care, urgent care,...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·6 reviews
3.5 mi · 2 West Portal Ave, San Francisco, CA 94127
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I strive to establish long-lasting relationships with my patients using a holistic, evidence-based approach and collaborating with them to help them meet their personal health and wellness goals. I draw from my fund of knowledge working as a hospitalist over the years to educate patients and empower...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
5.00
·4 reviews
2 mi · 3490 California St, Ste 203, San Francisco, CA 94118
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am a Remote PCP, which means I exclusively care for patients virtually in Remote Visits. I strive to build strong partnerships with my patients through trust and understanding. I look forward to guiding each patient through their health journey to help them meet their individual goals. I'm especia...Click to read more
Internist
5.00
·2 reviews
3.5 mi · 2 West Portal Ave, San Francisco, CA 94127
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am passionate about primary care and enjoy working with each patient to support their mental, physical, and spiritual health. I use a whole-body, integrative approach that focuses on collaborating with each patient to help them meet their health and wellness goals. How I stay healthy and happy: Y...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Allergy)
5.00
·1 review
9 mi · 5709 Market St, Oakland, CA 94608
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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Kaitlyn Watkins is a certified Physician Assistant, originally from San Diego. She received her Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology at UCLA and continued her education at Chapman University, earning her Master of Medical Sciences in Physician Assistant Studies. As a Physician Assistant, Kaitlyn is ...Click to read more
Dermatologist
4.63
·293 reviews
Doctor Lowenstein was friendly, listened, made me feel comfortable, and helped solve my issue. I recommend him! - Aug 19, 2022Click to read more
10.5 mi · 535 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time · Expertise in benign or precancerous skin growths ·
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SF PATIENTS: I HAVE MOVED TO SOUTHERN MARIN COUNTY. I AM NO LONGER AT THE HYDE STREET LOCATION. PLEASE COME SEE ME IN MY STATE OF THE ART MILL VALLEY OFFICE. WE ARE A SHORT DRIVE ACROSS THE BRIDGE AND HAVE FREE PARKING! As a double board-certified dermatologist, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, and...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Nurse Practitioner
4.73
·11 reviews
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients ·
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As a dedicated healthcare provider, I am passionate about cultivating strong relationships based on trust, empathy, and open communication. I believe in empowering you by providing the necessary information and knowledge to make informed decisions and providing holistic, preventative care catered to...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
5.00
·1 review
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I believe the foundation to quality healthcare is communication and education. I strive to understand the specific challenges and strengths that each patient faces in becoming their healthiest self. My goal is for my patients to see me as a resource, providing the most up-to-date medical guidelines ...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·8 reviews
8.5 mi · 1333 Powell St, Ste 103, Emeryville, CA 94608
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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I am a welcoming and passionate provider who encourages open discussion and education to guide patients towards healthy lifestyle choices. I enjoy working with patients in all stages of life, getting to know each of them on a personal level and working as a team to create individualized care that ta...Click to read more
Family Physician
5.00
·4 reviews
10.5 mi · 2145 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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I am out-of-network with Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans through the end of 2024. I take a whole mind and body approach that includes integrative, collaborative, and functional medicine principles to help my patients achieve their health and wellness goals. My approach is to encourage healing ...Click to read more
Internist
8 mi · 901 Campus Dr, Ste 214, Daly City, CA 94015
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in chronic kidney disease + 4 more ·
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Dr. Moskowitz is a board-certified internal medicine physician with more than 30 years of experience caring for adults throughout the Bay Area. His career spans private practice, hospital medicine, transitional care, urgent care, and hospice leadership. He has dedicated his work to providing accessi...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 26
Family Physician
4.82
·11 reviews
10 mi · 750 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 1210, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 7 more ·
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Born and raised in France, I entered the primary care field to provide patients with a more holistic approach to health. I believe that osteopathic medicine allows me to connect with the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of each patient through strong, evidence-based knowledge. Before joini...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Dermatology)
5.00
·9 reviews
10 mi · 2320 Woolsey St, Ste 202, Berkeley, CA 94705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
With over eight years of experience as a board-certified physician assistant, Vanessa Parvez brings a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to dermatologic care. Drawn to dermatology for its unique blend of visual diagnosis, hands-on procedures, and meaningful patient relationships, she loves helpin...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Jun 17
Family Physician
5.00
·3 reviews
10 mi · 750 Redwood Hwy Frontage Rd, Ste 1210, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
I approach medicine as an advocate for my patients and their health, giving them the resources and knowledge I can provide. I practice from child, adolescent, reproductive health, to geriatric care. My hope is that patients leave feeling heard and that our medical decisions are made together. I stay...Click to read more
Internist
4.84
·250 reviews
Good experience. Dr. Hana was attentive and patient. - Oct 26, 2022Click to read more
10.5 mi · 2107 Channing Way, Berkeley, CA 94704
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 37 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Please note we are a membership model. To support a more personalized approach to care, our patients contribute an annual retainer fee of $400, or $35 per month. This fee allows Dr. Hana to maintain a smaller patient panel, spend more time with each patient, and incorporate his experience with medi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 22
Family Nurse Practitioner
5.00
·1 review
10 mi · 3850 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
As a nurse practitioner, I believe in collaborating with patients to achieve their health goals, emphasizing a preventive, holistic view that considers their physical and mental well-being. My approach values building patient relationships, providing culturally sensitive care, facilitating lifestyle...Click to read more
Physician Assistant
5.00
·24 reviews
12 mi · 1970 Mtn Blvd, Oakland, CA 94611
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Mr. Sean Parkin is a well-trained physician assistant at CityHealth Urgent Care. He offers consultations in San Leandro and Oakland, California. Mr. Parkin understands patients' concerns, prepares individualized treatment plans, and conducts follow-ups if needed. Having a holistic approach to care...Click to read more
Next available: Fri, Jun 12
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with an Allergist in San Francisco?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for an Allergist in San Francisco, book an appointment, and see the Allergist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Allergists in San Francisco who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a San Francisco Allergist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a San Francisco Allergist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with an Allergist in San Francisco?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Allergists in San Francisco and book appointments instantly. You can search for San Francisco Allergists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Allergist in San Francisco?

When you search for San Francisco Allergists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Allergists in San Francisco who match your preferences.


How can I find a San Francisco Allergist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for San Francisco Allergists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Allergist in San Francisco?

You can use Zocdoc to find Allergists in San Francisco who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with an Allergist online in San Francisco?

Allergists in San Francisco on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Allergists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with an Allergist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Allergists in San Francisco who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find an Allergist in San Francisco who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Allergist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find an Allergist in San Francisco who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Allergists in San Francisco. Many Allergists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


What are allergies?


Allergies manifest when your immune system reacts to a foreign material — such as pollen, bee venom, or pet dander — or a meal that most people do not react to.


Antibodies are chemicals that your immune system produces. When you have allergies, your immune system produces antibodies that label a specific allergen as dangerous even though it is not. When you come into contact with an allergen, your immune system's reaction may cause inflammation of your skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive tract.


Allergies can vary in severity for every individual and can range from moderate irritation to anaphylaxis — a potentially fatal condition. While most allergies do not have a permanent cure, some available treatment options can help alleviate your allergy symptoms.


Who is an allergist?


Allergists are physicians who specialize in immunity-related disorders. Your immune system consists of disease-fighting cells, organs, and tissues. Immune system problems that an allergist treats include:


  • Allergic conditions: They develop when your immune system reacts abnormally to something you eat, breathe in (inhale), or touch.
  • Asthma: It is an inflammation of the airways of your lungs. Stimuli in your surroundings usually trigger asthma attacks.
  • Primary immunodeficiency diseases: These are hereditary illnesses that cause your immune system to malfunction. There are around 200 different types of primary immunodeficiency diseases.


It is best to consult an allergy specialist near you if you suspect these issues. 


What does an allergist do?


Allergists can perform and interpret several diagnostic procedures relating to immune system disorders. They can accordingly provide treatment for the identified issues. Allergists can help you with the following:


  • Test for allergies related to food, pollen (grass, trees, weeds), pet dander, mold, and other triggers.
  • Diagnose asthma by testing your lung function.
  • Prescribe medications or medical equipment to help prevent, treat, or minimize allergic responses and asthma episodes.
  • Suggest lifestyle modifications to avoid asthma and allergy triggers.
  • Give allergy injections or other types of immunotherapy to help minimize allergic reactions.
  • Diagnose immunodeficiency conditions.
  • Suggest how to avoid infection while living with an immunological disease.
  • Administer intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to treat certain immune disorders.
  • Perform drug desensitization so that you can take essential drugs safely.


When should you visit an allergist near you?


There are many types of allergies, and they may not always be apparent. Several indicators suggest you should see an allergist, including:


  • Over-the-counter allergy medications do not work

Even if you already know you have "hay fever" or other seasonal allergies, seeing an allergist may be helpful. If conventional over-the-counter (OTC) allergy drugs aren't correctly treating your symptoms, an allergist can prescribe stronger medications to help you alleviate symptoms.


  • Insomnia or chronic snoring

Many allergies result in substantial sinus irritation. That might make breathing difficult while sleeping, leading to snoring or sleeplessness. 


  • Sinus or ear infections that are chronic

While germs or viruses do not cause allergies, they can make you more susceptible to illnesses. Specific allergies might create inflammation in your sinuses or eustachian tubes, preventing them from clearing.


This offers an ideal setting for ear or sinus infections. If you have either of these issues frequently, seeing an allergist may help you avoid them in the future.


  • Unusual mouth and throat irritation

Food allergies do not always cause significant symptoms, as peanut and shellfish allergies sometimes do. Instead, they may merely cause itching and soreness in the mouth, face, or throat regularly. 


What to expect when you are visiting an allergist?


When you visit an allergist near you, they will ask questions to better understand when your allergy symptoms are most prevalent. They may also run several tests to pinpoint specific allergies. These tests may include the following:


  • Blood tests
  • Patch tests
  • Skin examinations
  • Pulmonary function tests
  • Nasal smears


Typically, small amounts of allergens are used in these tests to discover which allergens, if any, trigger an immunological response.


They will provide a recommendation based on the results of these tests. Treating minor allergies can be as easy as avoiding the allergen or using over-the-counter antihistamines since most allergies are caused by your immune system producing too much histamine, particularly pollen and dander allergies. If it is not possible to avoid particular medications, an allergist can give a stronger medication to alleviate symptoms.


Severe allergies may necessitate a more aggressive course of treatment. Allergists can recommend an epinephrine pen for use in emergencies for patients with severe allergies or those who have previously experienced anaphylactic shock.


They may also advise immunotherapy for persistent allergies. This is a treatment plan that gradually desensitizes your immune system to certain allergens.


What is the difference between an allergy and a cold?


Colds and allergies share several symptoms, such as runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, congestion, fatigue, and coughing. However, colds may also bring aches, pains, fever, and sometimes itchy, watery eyes, whereas allergies typically do not cause aches, pains, or fever but can lead to itchy, watery eyes.


If you notice symptoms in April accompanied by visible yellow-green pollen, especially on surfaces like your car, it’s likely you are experiencing seasonal allergies or hay fever. This likelihood increases if you experience similar symptoms at the same time each year. While colds can occur any time, including spring and summer, they are most common in colder weather. 


The onset of symptoms can also help pinpoint the cause. Allergy symptoms generally begin almost immediately after exposure to an allergen, such as pollen. For example, if you are allergic to pollen, you might experience symptoms as soon as you encounter it. Conversely, cold germs typically take one to three days before symptoms develop. If you’ve recently been near someone who is sick, your symptoms are more likely due to a cold.


Colds usually last from three days to about a week, though some people may experience symptoms for up to two weeks. An improvement after a few days typically suggests recovery from a cold. If your symptoms progressively worsen each day, it might indicate a bacterial infection. You should consult a doctor if the symptoms persist beyond one to two weeks or worsen after about five days.


Allergy symptoms persist as long as you’re exposed to the trigger. For example, if you’re allergic to cat dander, your sniffles should subside once you move away from a cat. 


How can I find an allergy specialist near me in San Francisco? 


Finding a qualified allergist in your neighborhood, especially in emergencies, can be difficult. Use Zocdoc, which is an online platform that aids in connecting you with required healthcare providers.


After creating an account, enter your condition, specialty, location, date, and insurance plan. If you cannot find your insurance plan listed on Zocdoc, you have the option to upload a photo of your medical insurance card. Kindly note that this option is not available for vision or dental insurance cards. Once uploaded, we will scan the image of your card to help identify your plan. If you encounter any issues while uploading your photo, please reach out to our service team for assistance. For additional insurance-related questions, feel free to visit Zocdoc’s insurance page. Based on your search criteria, Zocdoc will give you a comprehensive list of the best allergy specialists near you in San Francisco. Depending on the doctor's availability, patients can make a same-day appointment or schedule appointments outside regular business hours or on weekends.


Each primary care doctor has a detailed profile on Zocdoc that includes a synopsis of their education, training, locations, how frequently they see patients, and—most importantly—verified reviews and ratings by past patients. These reviews will help you choose the right allergist near you. Once you have decided on the provider, you can set up video appointments on Zocdoc or schedule an in-person meeting. 


On Zocdoc, scheduling an appointment is secure, quick, and free!


Statistics related to allergies


According to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one-third of adults in the United States reported a seasonal allergy, eczema, or food allergy in 2021. The same data reports that seasonal allergy was the most common of these three allergies. It affected around one-quarter of individuals (~25.7%), followed by eczema (~7.3%) and food allergy (~6.2%). Women were more likely than men to have a diagnosed allergy in all three categories. The incidence of diagnosed eczema and food allergies decreased with increasing age. In contrast, the prevalence of a diagnosed seasonal allergy was about 24.7% in adults aged 18-44, nearly 27.9% in adults aged 45-64, approximately 26.4% in adults aged 65-74, and about 21.7% in adults aged 75 and above. 


Sources


WebMD[1]

Cleveland Clinic

Mayo Clinic

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

WebMD[2]


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

Zocdoc›Allergists›San Francisco, CA