‹ Back to Physician Directory

Elizabeth Ferluga

Director of Movement Disorders

Dr. Ferluga, a neurology specialist, developed and directed movement disorder programs at prestigious medical centers before pivoting to teleneurology with Synapticure, focusing on holistic care for Parkinson’s and Huntington’s patients.

‹ Back to Physician Directory

Elizabeth Ferluga

MD

Director of Movement Disorders

Dr. Ferluga, a neurology specialist, developed and directed movement disorder programs at prestigious medical centers before pivoting to teleneurology with Synapticure, focusing on holistic care for Parkinson’s and Huntington’s patients.

Request Appointment

Credentials

Residency

Vanderbilt Medical Center (Neurology)

Fellowship

Vanderbilt Medical Center (Movement Disorder Neurology)

Education

Carver College of Medicine (MD)

Washington State University (Neuroscience)

Washington State University (Psychology)

Affiliations

Alpha Omega Alpha

Movement Disorder Society

American Academy of Neurology

About the doctor

Biography

Dr. Ferluga was born in Kennewick, WA.  She completed her undergraduate degrees in psychology and neuroscience in 2003 at Washington State University.  She went on to University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.  She graduated with AOA honors in 2007.  She completed her residency in Neurology at Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN. She served as neurology chief resident in 2011.  She subsequently went on to be a general neurology attending and movement disorder fellow, graduating in 2013.  She then joined faculty at Vanderbilt as an assistant professor practicing both general neurology and movement disorders.  She further participated development of a pediatric movement disorder clinic.

In 2015, she moved to Chattanooga, TN.  She was hired at Erlanger medical center to develop a movement disorder program.  While working at Erlanger, she served as Clinic Director and Medical Director of the neurology service line.  She also served as the director of Erlanger’s HD center of excellence (partner with Vanderbilt since 2016).

She left Erlanger medical center in 2023.  She is now practicing teleneurology with synapticure focusing on total care for patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease.

Publications

Ferluga ED, Sathe NA, Krishnaswam S, Mcpheeters ML. Surgical intervention for feeding and nutrition difficulties in cerebral palsy: a systematic review.  Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology. June 5 2013.

Ferluga ED, Archer KR, Sathe NA, Krishnaswami S, Klint A, Lindegren ML, McPheeters ML. Interventions for Feeding and Nutrition in Cerebral Palsy. Comparative Effectiveness Review No. 94. (Prepared by the Vanderbilt Evidence-based Practice Center under Contract No. 290-2007-10065-I) AHRQ Publication No. 13-EHC015-EFxx-EHCxxx. Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. <in press>. Available at: www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/reports/final.cfm.

Poe, G.R., Thompson, C.M., Riley, B.T., Tysor, M.K., Bjorness, T.E., Steinhoff, B.P, and Ferluga, E.D.  A spatial memory task appropriate for electrophysiological recordings.  Journal of Neuroscience Methods.  2002.  Vol 121.  pp 64-74.

View allShow less

Affiliations

Alpha Omega Alpha

Movement Disorder Society

American Academy of Neurology

View allShow less

states licensed in

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Maine
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia

Reviews

4.9
Overall Experience

Filled with gratitude, I'm grateful for Dr. Ferluga's knowledge, understanding, and compassion. She was She was intuitive and asked about how my symptoms were affecting me emotionally, mentally, and physically. She saw me as a whole person, not a brain disease. Dr Ferluga feel like a friend I've known all my life.

-

Dr. Ferluga listened closely to my concerns. At the same time, she asked probing questions that helped me think through things. While it was my first visit with her, I felt I have an ally with her, going forward.

-

I truly appreciate being able to talk to her and feel listened to. She’s one of a kind!

-

I came away with very positive feelings and information I that I didn’t have before.

-

This was the best, comprehensive, open, promising, ... discussion with a provider for my care for Parkinson's. Bravo to Synapticure and Dr. Ferluga.

-

So much better that our regular neurologist who can only talk with us 1-2 times a year for 20-30 minutes. Appointments with Dr. Ferluga are in-depth and she is really getting to know her new patient. She's willing to listen and gives great advice.

-

As always she was caring and listened to all our concerns. She helps us brainstorm the best ways to help our current situations. I do not know where we would be without her.

-

Liz was super thorough and listened really well

-

We really enjoyed our visit, she was patient and very knowledgable. Kind and attentive to my needs with great information in regards to my diagnosis.

-

I felt that Dr. Ferluga was willing to take the necessary time with me.

-

Dr Ferluga was lovely, attentive and kind. I realize Multiple Systems Atrophy isn’t one of your focuses. Was hoping to learn about upcoming trials, research, etc. If you hire a specialist who has deep MSA experience in the future, please let me know.

-

Dr Ferluga gives 100 per cent

-

I found the visit very educational and satisfying. I appreciated Dr. Ferluga's integrative approach using not only medicine, but also the disciplines of biology and chemistry to treat the whole person rather than just treating the disease.

-

We see this Zoom-meeting as very successful

-

Liz takes extra time to Listen, process, and respond. This is a very welcome change in my healthcare!

-

Dr. Ferluga made minor changes to my medication, and it made such a difference. Before the change in my medication I had severe dyskinesia most all day. It is so nice to have a good doctor that knows me and knows what to do for me. I personally feel Telemed appointments are more thorough than going into your doctor’s office. You have more one on one interaction. All this from the comfort of my home. I’m sold! Thank you, Synapticure, for reuniting me with my neurologist, Dr. Ferluga. Also, I want to thank my care team for being knowledgeable, timely, professional and helpful. My care team made this transition easy. , polite, and helpful. ,

-

Dr. Ferluga, after a full patient assessment, took time to carefully explain her proposed care plan and answer all our questions. Within hours, she sent us a written summary of her care plan followed by very detailed chart notes. We continue to be so impressed by the quality of care through Synapticure.

-

I am continually impressed by how much the doctor really pays attention to what I have to saw and how much she takes my opinions into account.. She spends the entire time asking questions and making suggestions to try and help me get what I need to make my life more livable.

-

Our first visit with Dr. Ferluga was a pleasure. We felt heard and understood in a way that has not happened in a very long time. Our Parkinson's journey began 14 years ago, and it was refreshing to have her full attention and reassuring to know we have not yet run out of options. We are hopeful and glad to partner with Dr. Ferluga in the quest to ease my husband's suffering. Also, we thank the Synapticure team members who led us to Dr. Ferluga.

-

She was very knowledgable and well prepared for our session. She explained many things about the medication which I appreciated.

-

Very informative. Several new ideas about my health. Very professional

-

Extremely thorough visit. We were very pleased with her wanting Scott to maintain a good sleep pattern. Covered all of our concerns, very professional.

-

So helpful and open.

-

Dr Ferluga listens carefully to both of us. She remembers details and can remind us of where we have been since meeting her. Her knowledge and sensitivity in adjusting medications has changed our lives for the better. We never feel rushed and always feel heard. She recently helped me navigate an ER/hospital/surgical/skilled nursing rehab episode by giving me (care partner/wife) portal support. As a result, I was able to be a successful PD advocate and improve my husband’s nursing care significantly. I honestly don’t know what we would do without her and Synapticure.

-

I actually feel I am getting more quality one on one time with my neurologist using Synapticure's telemed appointments. I have a followup with my care team after every appointment; and my care team is always available through messenging. Responses are sent promptly. I am very happy with my level of care.

-

Dr Liz was wonderful! She was very approachable, and I felt like she really listened to my medical concerns and was careful to address all of them. The entire process, from the new patient intake with Linda who is overseeing my care, right up to the present has been excellent.

-

I am constantly impressed by Dr Ferluga’s concern for my wellbeing and her dedication to trying to find ways to make my life more comfortable.

-

Glad to see you and help with my care!

-

This was my second visit. I was more relaxed. I feel good about Dr Ferluga’s direction of treatment. She summed up the objectives for each person at the end of our visit.

-

No

-

Dr Ferluga continues to exceed expectations

-

It was unscheduled but she fit me in because I was having major issues with the meds. I was really impressed by that. If just shows me that I made me right decision going to Synapticure.

-

Dr. Verluga clearly explains things and answers any questions I have. She listens carefully to my issues and concerns. I appreciate her guidance.

-

I was very impressed with the amount of time and quality questions.

-

Dr. Ferluga is just amazing. She takes the time to listen and really dig deep to help with current issues. Such a blessing to have her on my care team.

-

My mother’s Synapticure team is fantastic. They make us feel like she is their most important patient. They are experts in their field and provide excellent care, but they also are kind and attentive and efficient. Also, being remote allows us, her daughters, to easily participate even though we live in different states, plus it allows my mom to have her appointments without ever leaving the house. Given that she has a movement disorder and we are so far away, this allows her to continue to age in place as long as possible without sacrificing quality care. Synapticure has been a blessing to our family.

-

The relaxed setting was conducive to discussion and for me to be an active participant in my care plan

-

I am very pleased with her. It’s nice to have a Doctor Who actually listens to you and is open minded about your treatment rather than telling you what you should do. I am so glad that I signed up with synapticure.

-

Dr. Ferluga was very easy to talk to and very understanding with our technical difficulties

-

Very thorough, personable and I appreciate the time spent listening to me, Dr. Ferluga was very interested and concerned about me.

-

I felt like I was thoroughly evaluated by Dr Ferluga. I have never felt so "listened to".

-

She is thoughtful, open to ideas, thorough, and compassionate. It is very easy to talk to .

-

Caring, personal and very informative.

-

She’s wonderful. And she took her time and listened as always. I really appreciate that. And that she obviously tries to think of solutions that will help me. Not just cookie-cutter stuff. I’m very glad for her. I didn’t have any place to really talk about what you were asking about using a Quote from me as below. You’re welcome to Use it if you can give me some time or something. And I will be glad to supply you with other quotes if that’s helpful. You could use my middle initial L Smith if that would help.

-

Dr. Ferluga really asked the right questions and listened to my responses. I was pleased with the depth of knowledge displayed during the visit, as well as in her report/notes/ summary.

-

I appreciated Dr Ferluga’s attention to detail and her thoroughness in investigating the issues that l am facing right now. With what she’s going to be checking out on me I believe we can find out what has been bothering me. I don’t think my current doctor and I were on the same page. And the symptoms were not being controlled well and I was feeling very bad at times Every one here thinks I am a hypochondriac but I’m not! Ğ

-

Just hopeful we'll find a diagnosis soon.

-

Liz really listens to us and makes everything very easy to understand

-

m

-

it was better than i had anticipated

-

I have never had a hour and a half visit with any doctor. It was wonderful.

-

Not at this time. Too soon.

-

I am very pleased to be able to see Dr. Ferluga!!

-

Dr. Ferluga is relaxed, openly inviting participation in the decisions that will determine my treatment plan. She has at the ready the information, questions and suggestions so that we can make a decision and then what needs to be done to see that we can move forward with our decisions. She establishes a time frame for review of the plan. She included a referral that will bring an additional support for my success.

-

Dr Ferluga is new to me and she is doing a very good job of getting to know me.

-

it took longer than usual to setup the zoom meeting. problems on my side

-

I have never had a doctor appointment that has been so NOT rushed, answered all my questions and concerns thoroughly, offered suggestions and LISTENED. She was just awesome!!!

-

Thank you for this company! Thank you for this blessing!

-

Dr Liz has shown genuine concern for finding what will make my life more manageable and I feel so grateful to have her on my side.

-

Excellent first encounter with Dr. Ferluga, she was very thorough, patient, and gave me many insightful recommendations to follow up on.

-

Dr. Ferluga is a pleasure to speak with. She was patient with me and answered all of my questions or let me know that she would get back to me if she didn’t have the information. I appreciate that she is open-minded about other alternatives and treatment.

-

Such a compassionate patient doctor.

-

I've lived in 4 different states and seen several neurologists. No one has ever taken the time to go over so many issues. Most I've met don't know half of what she knows.

-

As always great info

-

The hour long visits are perfect and should never be reduced.

-

She explained to me what she thought and why she thought this. It was very helpful to me. I believe she is right in her diagnosis.

-

Dr. Ferluga is very responsive and willing to go the extra mile for her clients.

-

This program is above and beyond any expectation I could ever have for how my PD care is managed. The Doctors and staff really go above and beyond to make you feel validated.

-

Dr Liz discusses my concerns with me and always acknowledges my thoughts on a course of treatment!!! That is an extremely valuable aspect.

-

I still am not comfortable with the teli-visit thing. Dr. Ferluga was so sweet and thoughtful. Her attitude helped me relax.

-

Dr Liz has been amazing. She is always looking for ways to help me despite the obstacles that keep coming up. I’m so grateful to have found her.

-

So helpful, as usual. We needed and received extreme kindness and patience this appointment…impossible to convey the extent of our appreciation.

-

no

-

Dr. Faluga is easy to work with, flexible, provides detailed info on medications. Has incredible knowledge of meds, diseases.5 star service!

-

Dr. Ferluga is up on the latest ideas> She has made some changes in my program that are working well. I am very pleased with her attention to detail and I look forward to working with her in future visits.

-

She listened and offered good suggestions and modifications.

-

I’ve had Parkinson’s twelve years. I’ve been through three neurologist. This is first time UPDRS and discovery questions were applied.

-

Liz always listens and gives great suggestions. She is also very prepared for her visits with us.

-

Very satisfied and happy with the Telemed experience. Dr. Ferluga is excellent and is always available should I contact her through Synapticure with any concerns.

-

Dr. Ferluga is very helpful and actually listens to all my concerns and addressing each of them with care and compassion. I am so very happy to have her as part of my health care team.

-

Dr Ferluga takes the time needed at every visit. She wants to make sure that I am getting all the information I need to live my best life with PD.

-

So grateful to have found Dr Ferluga again. She has been a wonderful dr over the last 10 yrs. She is very compassionate and knowledgeable. We trust her completely.

-

On time, thorough, supportive, excellent listening, organized appointments. I especially appreciate the quality of questions that often get overlooked by the mainstream medical community. They appear to really want to be a collaborative team.

-

Dr Ferluga is extremely helpful and caring. She goes out of her way to provide useful information on a variety of topics related to my struggles.

-

Dr. Ferluga is great. Her patients are lucky to be in her care.

-

Dr Ferluga was just phenomenal. She was thoughtful, patient and really took the time to tease out the underlying conditions that may have an impact on my Mom’s current symptoms. We’re so thankful for the experience and know it will have a decided impact on her care moving forward.

-

I like that you and your team are available more so than most neurologist

-

Dr. Ferluga is very straightforward and personable. She’s easy to speak with and she clearly cares about her patients. I enjoy meeting with her.

-

We like Dr. Ferluga.

-

The Dr. Liz Ferluga was very thorough. I feel she genuinely cared about my father. The Dr. Liz Ferluga also gave us great info regarding Parkinsons and his medicines. We look forward to seeing her again!

-

Dr Ferluga is great.

-

Dr Ferluga is so kind and compassionate in addition to being very knowledgeable. I can’t say how much my husband and I appreciate all she has done for us.

-

Very pleasant visit Easy to understand Dr Ferluga, she helps me to understand.

-

I am overwhelmed by the amount of time and care that Dr Ferluga has put in for me because she truly wants to help me. I can tell because she emails me between visits to find how things are going and encourages me to contact her and Becky the care manager with any concerns or questions at any time. I am so thrilled to have found someone who cares and I have told many people about Synapticure and the wonderful job they’re doing for me. I can’t say enough about Dr Ferluga and the entire team!

-

Dr Ferluga is truly trying to help me live a better life with PD. I appreciate the time and effort from the whole team at Synapticure.

-

I have a new computer using Windows 11 which is still difficult for me. Dr. Ferluga and her staff were very patient and helpful in guiding me through the process.

-

Dr. Ferluga previously referred us to see a dermatologist, resulting in the discovery of not 1 but 2 conditions needing immediate treatment.

-

I felt dr was very kwouglegebble caring Made my day a little brighter

-

She really is trying to help me with my parkinsons.

-

As always Dr. Ferluga listens as well as advises and is a joy to have as a doctor

-