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Luca Vassalli, MD
I speak: English
My gender: Male
Where I practice
About me
I was born and raised in Rome, Italy, and was the only member of a large family to come to the U.S., where I attended college. Although I have lived mostly in the U.S. from the age of 18, I enjoy returning to Italy regularly to visit family.
About my practice
I was drawn to practicing medicine because it allowed me to combine my scientific interest in science and biology with the practical aspects and rewards of applied science. When I rotated through the otolaryngology department in my third year of medical school, I became interested in the detailed anatomy of the ear, nose and throat. I also liked the fact that the specialty combined aspects of medicine and surgery.After my initial two years at the Hawaii Permanente Medical Group (HPMG), I spent time in Italy doing specialty training in ear surgery. Over the next 20 years in Southern California, my practice covered the entire spectrum of my specialty. I returned to HPMG in 2011, and since then I have been the chief of my department.I appreciate being part of HPMG versus a private practice because I love being able to focus on patient care without worrying about running the day-to-day operations of a business. At HPMG, I can consult any specialist at a moment’s notice, and I have immediate access to the patient's medical records. I also really enjoy the contact with like-minded physicians.I believe that the patient comes first, and the doctor must be able to listen to his or her concerns and demonstrate empathy. I appreciate both patients who are thankful for what I do, and the more challenging patients who may be frustrated with the outcome of prior treatment.In California I frequently gave community lectures on sleep apnea and sinus disease. I have presented research papers on ear problems at several national and international meetings in Florida and Denmark.
How I thrive
I exercise one hour every day, and enjoy running, hiking and biking. I also love to go backpacking with my children.I enjoy reading non-fiction books, biking, golf, hiking, and travel.
My office
Languages spoken by medical staff
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My provider type
Physicians and SurgeonsMedical groups, plans, and locations
Southern California Permanente Medical Group
Plans accepted
- Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO)
- HMO
- Medi-Cal Managed Care
- Point-of-Service Plan (POS)
- Senior Advantage
Garfield Specialty Center
Contact information
- Appointments/information
- 1-833-574-2273 (toll free)
- California Relay Service(TTY for the speech impaired hearing/speech impaired)
- 711 (TTY for the hearing/speech impaired)
- Pharmacy information/refills by phone
- 1-877-842-9584 (toll free)
My training, certifications and licensing
Medical school
University of California, DavisBoard certification
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surger
American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck SurMedical training
Internship
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery
University of Illinois at ChicagoResidency
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery-General
University of Illinois at ChicagoJoined Permanente Medical Group
2022Active license information
License number
G71049License type
Physician and SurgeonLicense issuing state
CALIFORNIANational Provider Identifier (NPI)
1467451880Cultural Competency Training (CCT)
PendingMy hospitals
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This page was last updated on: 12/21/2025