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David K. Turok
( out of 12 reviews )

David K. Turok, MD, MPH, FACOG

Languages spoken: English, Spanish

Clinical Locations

Primary Location

University of Utah Hospital

Women's Health, Area E
50 N Medical Dr
Salt Lake City , UT 84132

As a women's health care specialist, Dr. David Turok sees patients for family planning and contraception care. His clinical interests include a wide range of family planning methods, ensuring comprehensive contraceptive care, and tailored women's health strategies.

Dr. Turok received his Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science from Middlebury College and then earned a dual degree in Medicine and Public Health from Tufts University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Family & Community Medicine at Brown University/Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, followed by additional residency training in OB/GYN at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Dr. Turok completed a fellowship in Family Practice and Obstetrics at the University of Utah as well.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Turok is actively involved in teaching and mentorship within the University of Utah’s academic community. He holds an adjunct position in the Department of Family & Preventive Medicine.

Board Certification

American Board of Family Medicine
American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Obstetrics & Gynecology)

Patient Rating

Patients consistently describe Dr. Turok as kind, respectful, and compassionate, praising his professionalism and strong knowledge. Reviewers note clear explanations, attentive listening, and a reassuring presence that made them feel comfortable and informed. Several comments specifically commend his sensitivity and emotional support when delivering difficult news.

Generated via Patient Reviews

4.8 /5
( out of 12 reviews )

The patient rating score is an average of all responses on our patient experience survey. The rating averages scores for all questions about care from our providers. The scale on which responses are measured is 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.


2026-03-19
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Thank you so much for your kindness and honorable nature. I felt completely cared for physically and emotionally. You made a very hard day feel a little bit lighter and for that, I truly appreciate you.

2026-02-15
MADSEN HEALTH CENTER

He was just right.

2025-07-10
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

I really appreciated the care I received from him. Very compassionate and helpful.

2025-02-20
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr. Turok helped me through a difficult second miscarriage. Although not my primary provider for the pregnancy, he treated me like a respected and valued patient. Our appointment was devastating, but he brought me comfort and hope that I still lean on today.

2025-02-13
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

I met with Dr. Turok on the worst day of my life. He and his student were very kind, and it made the situation much more tolerable. I am very grateful they were there.

2024-12-20
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

One of the greatest providers I have ever had. Listened to me, understood my feels and was sympathetic and provided reassurance and support

2024-10-13
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Muy amable, cortes y profecional

2024-09-16
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Very nice

2024-04-11
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Great Dr! Very knowledgeable and helped me set proper expectations about my pregnancy and possibility of miscarriage. Asked me about my feelings and comfort level during the appt and made me feel very positive about his respect for me as a patient and my decisions and autonomy.

2024-02-01
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Turok was incredibly professional and knowledgable.

2023-10-05
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

He was amazing! So kind and patient and helpful. He had to give us devastating news but was so compassionate and sensitive doing so. He made a horrible moment of my life a little easier with his gentle and kind approach. I'm forever grateful he was my doctor that day.

2023-08-18
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Turok was very respectful and kind. He made sure I felt comfortable and understood what needed to happen during my appointment. He helped reassure me while calmly explaining potential outcomes of this appointment. He answered all my questions and made sure I understood everything he was seeing during the ultrasound I received.

2023-08-17
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Turok had a great presence. He was reassuring and encouraging. Loved his relaxed and confident demeanor. He was focused on making sure I was comfortable and that all my questions were answered. Turok is an amazing provider to have within this clinic. Highly recommend. His knowledge is outstanding.

2023-01-06
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Turok was very professional, kind, and knowledgeable. I was happy to be in his care.


Patient comments are gathered from our patient experience survey and displayed in their entirety. For the convenience of our visitors, some patient comments have been translated from their original language into English while preserving their original meaning as accurately as possible. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.

As a women's health care specialist, Dr. David Turok sees patients for family planning and contraception care. His clinical interests include a wide range of family planning methods, ensuring comprehensive contraceptive care, and tailored women's health strategies.

Dr. Turok received his Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science from Middlebury College and then earned a dual degree in Medicine and Public Health from Tufts University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Family & Community Medicine at Brown University/Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, followed by additional residency training in OB/GYN at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Dr. Turok completed a fellowship in Family Practice and Obstetrics at the University of Utah as well.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Turok is actively involved in teaching and mentorship within the University of Utah’s academic community. He holds an adjunct position in the Department of Family & Preventive Medicine.

Board Certification and Academic Information

Academic Departments Molecular Pharmaceutics -Adjunct Professor
Family & Preventive Medicine -Adjunct Professor
Obstetrics & Gynecology -Professor
Board Certification
American Board of Family Medicine
American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology (Obstetrics & Gynecology)

Education history

Undergraduate Environmental Earth Sciences - Middlebury College B.A.
Professional Medical Medicine and Public Health - Tufts University School of Medicine M.D., M.P.H.
Internship Family & Community Medicine - Brown University/Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island Intern
Residency Brown University/Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island Resident
Fellowship Family Practice and Obstetrics - University of Utah School of Medicine Fellow
Residency OB/GYN - University of Utah School of Medicine Resident

Selected Publications

Journal Article

  1. Thorman A, Engle A, Brintz B, Simmons RG, Sanders JN, Gawron LM, Turok DK, Kaiser J (2022). Quantitative and qualitative impact of One Key Question on primary care providers' contraceptive counseling at routine preventive health visits. Contraception, 109, 73-79.
  2. Sanders JN, Kean J, Zhang C, Presson AP, Everett BG, Turok DK, Higgins J (2022). Measuring the Sexual Acceptability of Contraception: Psychometric Examination and Development of a Valid and Reliable Prospective Instrument. The journal of sexual medicine, 19(3), 507-520.
  3. Higgins JA, Kramer R, Senderowicz L, Everett B, Turok DK, Sanders J (2022). Sex, poverty, and public health: Connections between sexual wellbeing and economic resources among US reproductive health clients. Perspectives on sexual and reproductive health, 54(1), 25-28.
  4. Kaiser JE, Galindo E, Sanders JN, Simmons RG, Gawron LM, Herrick JS, Brintz B, Turok D (2021). Determining the impact of the Zika pandemic on primary care providers' contraceptive counseling of non-pregnant patients in the US: a mixed methods study. BMC health services research, 21(1), 1215.
  5. Kramer RD, Higgins JA, Everett B, Turok DK, Sanders J (2021). A prospective analysis of the relationship between sexual acceptability and contraceptive satisfaction over time. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 226(3), 396.e1-396.e11.
  6. Walhof KA, Gawron LM, Turok DK, Sanders J (2021). Long-Term Failure Rates of Interval Filshie Clips As a Method of Permanent Contraception. Women's health reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.), 2(1), 279-284.
  7. Myers K, Sanders JN, Dalessandro C, Sexsmith CD, Geist C, Turok D (2021). The HER Salt Lake media campaign: comparing characteristics and outcomes of clients who make appointments online versus standard scheduling. BMC women's health, 21(1), 121.
  8. Higgins JA, Kramer RD, Wright KQ, Everett B, Turok DK, Sanders J (2021). Sexual Functioning, Satisfaction, and Well-Being Among Contraceptive Users: A Three-Month Assessment From the HER Salt Lake Contraceptive Initiative. Journal of sex research, 1-10.
  9. Turok DK, Gero A, Simmons RG, Kaiser JE, Stoddard GJ, Sexsmith CD, Gawron LM, Sanders J (2021). Levonorgestrel vs. Copper Intrauterine Devices for Emergency Contraception. The New England journal of medicine, 384(4), 335-344.
  10. Chen BA, Eisenberg DL, Schreiber CA, Turok DK, Olariu AI, Creinin M (2020). Bleeding changes after levonorgestrel 52-mg intrauterine system insertion for contraception in women with self-reported heavy menstrual bleeding. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 222(4S), S888.e1-S888.e6.
  11. Royer PA, Olson LM, Jackson B, Weber LS, Gawron L, Sanders JN, Turok D (2020). "In Africa, There Was No Family Planning. Every Year You Just Give Birth": Family Planning Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Somali and Congolese Refugee Women After Resettlement to the United States. Qualitative health research, 30(3), 391-408.
  12. Chen MJ, Creinin MD, Turok DK, Archer DF, Barnhart KT, Westhoff CL, Thomas MA, Jensen JT, Variano B, Sitruk-Ware R, Shanker A, Long J, Blithe D (2020). Dose-finding study of a 90-day contraceptive vaginal ring releasing estradiol and segesterone acetate. Contraception, 102(3), 168-173.
  13. Gawron LM, Simmons RG, Sanders JN, Myers K, Gundlapalli AV, Turok D (2020). The effect of a no-cost contraceptive initiative on method selection by women with housing insecurity. Contraception, 101(3), 205-209.
  14. Gawron LM, Sanders JN, Sward K, Poursaid AE, Simmons R, Turok D (2020). Multi-morbidity and Highly Effective Contraception in Reproductive-Age Women in the US Intermountain West: a Retrospective Cohort Study. Journal of general internal medicine, 35(3), 637-642.
  15. Turok DK, Nelson AL, Dart C, Schreiber CA, Peters K, Schreifels MJ, Katz (2020). Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of a New Low-Dose Copper and Nitinol Intrauterine Device: Phase 2 Data to 36 Months. Obstetrics and gynecology, 135(4), 840-847.
  16. Simmons RG, Myers K, Gero A, Sanders JN, Quade C, Mullholand M, Turok D (2020). Evaluating a Longitudinal Cohort of Clinics Engaging in the Family Planning Elevated Contraceptive Access Program: Study Protocol for a Comparative Interrupted Time Series Analysis. JMIR research protocols, 9(10), e18308.
  17. Disney EA, Sanders JN, Turok DK, Gawron L (2020). Preconception Counseling, Contraceptive Counseling, and Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Use in Women with Type I Diabetes: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Women's health reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.), 1(1), 334-340.
  18. Everett BG, Myers K, Sanders JN, Turok D (2019). Male Abortion Beneficiaries: Exploring the Long-Term Educational and Economic Associations of Abortion Among Men Who Report Teen Pregnancy. The Journal of adolescent health, 65(4), 520-526.
  19. Thompson I, Sanders JN, Schwarz EB, Boraas C, Turok D (2019). Copper intrauterine device placement 6-14 days after unprotected sex. Contraception, 100(3), 219-221.
  20. Campbell AD, Turok DK, White (2019). Fertility Intentions and Perspectives on Contraceptive Involvement Among Low-Income Men Aged 25 to 55. Perspectives on sexual and reproductive health, 51(3), 125-133.
  21. Gawron LM, Pettey WBP, Redd AM, Suo Y, Turok DK, Gundlapalli A (2019). Distance Matters: Geographic barriers to long acting reversible and permanent contraception for homeless women Veterans. Journal of social distress and the homeless, 28(2), 139-148.
  22. Betstadt SJ, Turok DK, Kapp N, Feng KT, Borgatta (2011). Intrauterine device insertion after medical abortion. Contraception, 83(6), 517-21.
  23. Gurtcheff SE, Turok DK, Stoddard G, Murphy PA, Gibson M, Jones K (2011). Lactogenesis after early postpartum use of the contraceptive implant: a randomized controlled trial. Obstetrics and gynecology, 117(5), 1114-21.
  24. Turok DK, Espey E, Edelman AB, Lotke PS, Lathrop EH, Teal SB, Jacobson JC, Simonsen SE, Schulz K (2011). The methodology for developing a prospective meta-analysis in the family planning community. Trials, 12, 104.
  25. Jacobson JC, Simonsen SE, Ward KM, Havlicak AL, Turok D (2011). A Survey of Sexual Activity and Contraceptive use among University of Utah Undergraduate Students Aged 18-20.
  26. Turok DK, Gurtcheff SE, Gibson K, Handley E, Simonsen S, Murphy P (2010). Operative management of intrauterine device complications: a case series report. Contraception, 82(4), 354-7.
  27. Turok DK, Gurtcheff SE, Handley E, Simonsen SE, Sok C, Murphy (2010). A pilot study of the Copper T380A IUD and oral levonorgestrel for emergency contraception. Contraception, 82(6), 520-5.
  28. Turok DK, Simonsen SE, Schulz (2010). Misoprostol for cervical priming prior to IUD insertion in nulliparous women. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, (1),
  29. Warren JE, Turok DK, Maxwell TM, Brothman AR, Silver R (2009). Array comparative genomic hybridization for genetic evaluation of fetal loss between 10 and 20 weeks of gestation. Obstetrics and gynecology, 114(5), 1093-102.
  30. Warren JE, Turok DK, Maxwell TM, Brothman AR, Silver R (2009). Array comparative genomic hybridization for genetic evaluation of fetal loss between 10 and 20 weeks of gestation. Obstetrics and gynecology, 114(5), 1093-102.
  31. Turok DK, Simonsen SE, Marshall (2009). Trends in levonorgestrel emergency contraception use, births, and abortions: the Utah experience. Medscape journal of medicine, 11(1), 30.
  32. Romero I, Turok D, Gilliam (2008). A randomized trial of tramadol versus ibuprofen as an adjunct to pain control during vacuum aspiration abortion. Contraception, 77(1), 56-9.
  33. Turok DK, Gurtcheff SE, Esplin MS, Shah M, Simonsen SE, Trauscht-Van Horn J, Silver R (2008). Second trimester termination of pregnancy: a review by site and procedure type. Contraception, 77(3), 155-61.

Review

  1. Shih G, Turok DK, Parker W (2011). Vasectomy: the other (better) form of sterilization. Contraception, 83(4), 310-5.
  2. Deutchman M, Tubay AT, Turok D (2009). First trimester bleeding. [Review]. Am Fam Physician, 79, (11), 985-94.
  3. Turok (2007). The quest for better contraception: future methods. Obstetrics and gynecology clinics of North America, 34(1), 137-66, x.
  4. Turok DK, Ratcliffe SD, Baxley EG (2003). Management of gestational diabetes mellitus. [Review]. Am Fam Physician, 68, (9), 1767-72.

Book Chapter

  1. Mata JM, Turok D (2008). Chapter 16, Section F: Intrapartum Complications, Retained Placenta. 488-91.
  2. Turok D (2008). Chapter 6, Section C: Management of Miscarriage. 144-50.
  3. Turok DK, Schultz T (2008). Chapter 8, Section I: Complications of Pregnancy, Endocrine Conditions. 243-54.
  4. Beukema R, Raiche M, Turok D (2008). Chapter 7, Section A: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. 151-61.
  5. Turok DK, Van Horn J (2004). Obstetrics and Gynecology. 87-94.
  6. Turok D (2001). Diabetes in Pregnancy.

Editorial

  1. Nguyen BT, Shih G, Turok D (2014). Putting the man in contraceptive mandate. Contraception, 89(1), 3-5.
  2. Turok DK, Shih G, Parker W (2011). Reversing the United States sterilization paradox by increasing vasectomy utilization. Contraception, 83(4), 289-90.
  3. Shields WC, Cohen EL, Turok (2011). Bringing it home: our imperative to translate reproductive health research into real practice change. Contraception, 84(1), 1-3.

Letter

  1. Gawron LM, Gero A, Kushner KL, Turok DK, Sanders J (2020). Unprotected intercourse in the 2 weeks prior to quick-start initiation of an etonogestrel contraceptive implant with and without use of oral emergency contraception. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 222(4S), S891-S892.

Abstract

  1. Jacobson JC, Murphy P, Turok D (2012). Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevalence in Women choosing the Copper T380A IUD for Emergency Contraception. 85(3), 223.
  2. Swenson C, Jacobson JC, Mitchell J, Turok D (2012). LNG IUD removals when the strings are not present: a case series. 85(3), 328.
  3. Jacobson JC, Maurer KA, Turok DK, Murphy (2012). Patient Travel Time and Distance for Second Trimester Dilation and Evacuation in the Intermountain West. 85(3), 323.
  4. Flores MES, Turok DK, Jacobson J (2012). Differences in birth control use and unintended pregnancy among Latina and white populations giving birth in Utah, 2004¿2007. 85(3), 321.
  5. Dermish A, Turok DK, Jacobson JC, Burke K, Flores (2011). Failed Iud Insertions In Nulliparous And Parous Women. Contraception, 84(3), 332.
  6. Turok DK, Jacobson JC, Gurtcheff SE, Flores (2011). Pregnancy Intendedness and Pregnancy Outcomes among Women Presenting For Intrauterine Device or Oral Levonorgestrel as Emergency Contraception. Contraception, 84(3), 332-3.
  7. Swenson C, Turok DK, Ward K, Jacobson J (2011). Misoprostol vs. Placebo Prior to IUD Insertion in Nulliparous Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial; also presented as a poster at the North American Forum on Family Planning, Washington, DC, October 23, 2011. 84(3), 307.
  8. Jacobson J, Maurer K, Turok D (2011). Same-day cervical preparation with misoprostol prior to second-trimester D&E: a case series. 84(3), 310.
  9. Turok DK, Jacobson JC, Simonsen SE, Gurtcheff SE, Trauscht-Van Horn J, Murphy P (2010). The Copper T380a Iud Vs. Oral Levonorgestrel For Emergency Contraception: A Prospective Observational Study. Contraception, 84(3), 321-2.
  10. Pawasarat J, Gibson K, Jacobson JC, Turok D (2010). IUD Removals in Emergency Department Settings.
  11. Gammon L, Simonsen SE, Handley E, Gurtcheff S, Turok D (2009). U USE IT (University Undergraduates' Sexual Education'Investigating Teachings survey) to evaluate students' perceptions of virginity. 80(2), 222.

Newspaper

  1. Turok DK, Jones (2012). Compassion, Contraception, and Abortion.