Memorial Regional Health has welcomed Allison Dobbie, MD, a board-certified ear, nose and throat specialist, who is now seeing patients in Craig. The addition of Dr. Dobbie fulfills a long-expressed need for local ENT services in the Yampa Valley.

“I’m really excited about the chance to serve a new community,” said Dr. Dobbie, who has practiced at UCHealth Memorial Hospital and Children’s Hospital Colorado in Colorado Springs for the past 12 years. “I know that ENT services haven’t been available in Craig for a while, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to a rural area.”

Ear, nose and throat doctors — also known as otolaryngologists — are specialists who diagnose and treat conditions of the head and neck. Common issues include allergies, chronic ear infections, sleep apnea, swallowing disorders, hearing loss, tinnitus and certain cancers, such as thyroid and mouth. Dr. Dobbie also performs surgeries, including tonsillectomies, sinus surgeries, facial reconstructive surgeries and eardrum and middle ear surgery.

Dr. Dobbie, who is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology, cares for both adults and children, from newborns to young adults. In addition to her general Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery residency, she also completed an additional year of fellowship training in Complex Pediatric Otolaryngology. While practicing in Colorado Springs, she developed and served as the Medical Director for the Children’s Hospital Colorado Springs Cleft Lip and Palate Program.

“I love getting a chance to care for families,” she said. “And I love to care for patients with facial differences. When I treat babies and children with cleft palate, their need for care continues as they grow. I get a chance to see them grow up. I cherish being incorporated into the community and developing relationship with families.”

A History of Service

As if working for two hospitals at once were not enough, for many years Dr. Dobbie also taught case-based learning to students at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and otolaryngology residents and fellows at the CU Department of Otolaryngology. She is an active member of both the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association and the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology. What’s more, she is a published author in peer-reviewed medical journals and professional publications.

“I love teaching,” she said. “At our Colorado Springs practice, I’ve been able to do small-group teaching of medical students and advanced practice providers over the years. I also love teaching our nurses and other staff so they can become passionate about our specialty. It strengthens the team.”

Since 2012, Dr. Dobbie has regularly participated in surgical mission trips to countries such as the Dominican Republic and Peru, treating conditions like cleft palate and complex middle ear disease. She loves to travel and plans to continue to her international humanitarian work.

Welcome to Craig

Dr. Dobbie and her mini-whoodle (Wheaton terrier-poodle mix), Mochi, are looking forward to getting settled in here in Craig. “I’m excited to get to know the community and learn about its needs,” she said.

Mochi and Dr. Dobbie like to hike, bike and spend time outdoors. They also like to host Dr. Dobbie’s seven nieces and nephews, most of whom are avid skiers and snowboarders — making Craig an attractive destination. “I’m going to be the cool aunty,” she said. “And I like to ski, too.”

In her free time, Dr. Dobbie also enjoys cooking, gardening, floral arranging and listening to music. “I like being creative and appreciating things that make life beautiful,” she said.

To Make an Appointment

To make an appointment with Dr. Dobbie, call the MRH Medical Office Building at (970) 826-2400.