Biography


Dr. John Ratliff is Professor and Vice Chair of Neurosurgery, Departmental Quality Officer, and Co-Director of the Spine and Peripheral Nerve Surgery Division. As a spine surgeon, he treats a diverse array of degenerative spinal conditions. He has a specific research emphasis on quality improvement, decreasing complications in spine surgery, and improving surgical treatment of intramedullary spinal cord tumors.

Dr. Ratliff is Chair of the Joint AANS/CNS Washington Committee. He has served on the Executive Committee of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons and the Joint Section of Disorders of Spine and Peripheral Nerves, is Recording Secretary for the Council of State Neurosurgical Societies, and is on the Board of Directors of Neuropoint Alliance. He is immediate past-chairman of the joint AANS/CNS Neurosurgery Quality Council.

Professional Summary


Education & Certifications
  • Medical Education: Tulane University School of Medicine Registrar (1995) LA
  • Board Certification: American Board of Neurological Surgery, Neurological Surgery (2005)
  • Fellowship: New York University Medical Center (2002) NY
  • Residency: Louisiana State University - New Orleans (2001) LA
  • Internship: Louisiana State University - New Orleans (1996) LA
  • MD, Tulane Medical School, Medicine (1995)

Honors & Awards
  • Brandeis University Health Policy Leaders Program Scholarship, American College of Surgeons (2009)
  • Charlie Kuntz Scholar Award, AANS/CNS Disorders of Spine and Peripheral Nerves Joint Section (2016)
  • Chicago Institute for Neurosurgery and Neuroresearch Foundation Research Grant, Chicago Institute of Neurosurgery and Neuroresearch Foundation (2003)
  • Denise O'Leary Award for Clinical Excellence, Stanford University Hospital and Clinics Board of Directors (2015)
  • Orthopedic Research and Education Foundation research grant award, Orthopedic Research and Education Foundation (2012)
  • Robert Florin, MD Award for Excellence in Research, American Association of Neurological Surgeons (2010)
  • Stanford University Department of Neurosurgery Excellence in Education and Mentorship Award, Stanford University Department of Neurosurgery (2013)
  • Top Oral Platform Presentation, AANS/CNS Disorders of Spine and Peripheral Nerves Joint Section (2015)
  • Walsh Foundation Research Grant, Walsh Foundation (2013)

Administrative Appointments
  • Assistant Professor, Rush University School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (2002 - 2005)
  • Assistant Professor, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (2005 - 2008)
  • Associate Professor, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (2008 - 2011)
  • Associate Professor, Stanford University School of Medicine (2011 - Present)
  • Chair, Quality Improvement Workgroup, American Association of Neurological Surgeons/Congress of Neurological Surgeons (2010 - Present)
  • Chair, Washington Committee, AANS/CNS (2021 - 2023)
  • Co-Director, Division of Spine and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University (2011 - Present)
  • Director of Spine and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Rush University School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois (2002 - 2005)
  • Instructor, New York University, Manhattan Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, Bellevue Medical Center, New York University, New York, New York (2001 - 2002)
  • Member at Large, Congress of Neurological Surgeons (2014 - 2016)
  • Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine (2016 - Present)
  • Recording Secretary, Council of State Neurosurgical Societies (2019 - 2021)
  • Vice Chair, Operations and Development, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University (2013 - Present)

Publications

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.

Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.


Practice Locations


Stanford Neuroscience Health Center Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto, CA

213 Quarry Road

Palo Alto , CA 94304

(650) 723-6469

Make An Appointment More Clinic Information » Getting Here »

Neurocritical Care Program Stanford, CA
Stanford, CA

300 Pasteur Drive, 3rd Floor

Stanford , CA 94305

+1 (866) 742-4811

Make An Appointment More Clinic Information » Getting Here »

Neurosurgery Program Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto, CA

Patient Ratings

(227 Ratings)

Overall Rating
4.8/5

View Ratings by Category

4.9/5
Friendliness
Friendliness/courtesy of the care provider
4.8/5
Explanations
Explanations the care provider gave you about your problem or condition
4.8/5
Listens
Concern the care provider showed for your questions or worries
4.8/5
Care provider's efforts to include you in decisions about your care
Care provider's efforts to include you in decisions about your treatment
4.9/5
Recommended to others
Likelihood of your recommending this care provider to others
0.0/5
Wait times
Wait time at clinic (from arriving to leaving)

How Our Ratings Work

The Patients Ratings and comments are gathered from our Patient Satisfaction Survey and displayed in their entirety.

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Patient Reviews

(378 reviews)

Found the Dr to be personable intelligent and engaging in his manner.
His response and conclusion remarks are complete, brief, orderly, and point by point, making for good note taking.
I felt like I was in very capable hands.
He’s terrific. Knowledgeable, thorough, offers clear easy to understand explanations and kind/nonjudgmental.
I have nothing but good to say about Dr Ratlif! For example when I am questioning him during the video visit he takes off his glasses and moves closer to the screen to listen and understand my issues better. Dr Ratlif is a fabulous person and I am grateful he is in my life as well as his team!
Excellent Doctor and communicates well with me.
Everyone was awesome and listened to all my concerns. Thank you
Fine Dr. , easy to understand and very thorough
Dr. Ratliff seems to completely understand what I am going through, is extremely knowledgeable, explains things well, and coordinates very well with his staff. I am quite comfortable in his care.
I am grateful to this Dr. Who took time with me, am active listener, gave me confidence and also respect. I intend to write a letter of thanks to him.?
His questions and responses were clear and concise, allowing me to follow and make notes despite my significantly increased level of pain.
He seemed comfortable talking to me by video, and given the situation (follow-up after a successful epidural steroid injection), the video meeting allowed a good conversation to take place between us.
So pleased he performed my surgery
Mr Ratliff is so pleasant to work with and I respect his high level of professionalism and understanding. Dr Ratliff made me feel very confident in my recovery. He is really there fir his patients as far as I have experienced and his health team
Great Dr Radcliffe the best
He is a great dr
Excellent communication with doctor
Dr. Radcliff and his assistance very helpful in helping me make my decision
Dr Ratliff was the best. He put me at ease with his diagnosis and recommendations for further treatment.
I was late and they still saw me
Fab DR.! His team also Fab..I am grateful they are in my life.
Excellent!!
Excellent Surgeon and great communication skills and exudes confidence
GREAT!!!
Dr Ratliff is a excellent Doctor
In addition to his excellent knowledge in neurosurgery, Doctor Ratliff has a great bed side manner and it is much appreciated. He takes time to listen to and address my concerns. Thank you!!
Great at communicating with patients
Dr Ratliff has fantastic energy and I enjoyed my visit and the positive feedback and completely comprehensive review of what was explained.
John Ratliff is kind and considerate of my questions and concerns. I will come to an appointment with a list of questions in mind and I appreciate that he always covers more bases than I ever think of.
Good bedside manner. Excellent explaining himself in Laymans terms and very patient.
Explains good and doesn’t rush anything. Answers questions and is pleasant.
excellent physician
I am very appreciative of being a patient.
Knowledgable, direct and practical
I think he is excellent
Meeting and messaging was very clear from the Dr...
Dr Ratliff you did an outstanding job on my 71 year old back. What a difference, Thank you so much!!!
Great doctor, happy to be his patient
The kindness of the staff who checked me in and gave me direction was amazing! I felt taken care of from the moment I walked in. Once in the room I saw the first doctor, who was so polite & caring, and thorough. Dr. Ratliff came in and the excellent care continued. He explained everything with such preciseness and confidence. I trusted his diagnosis and treatment plan and I am thankful for the great care I received!
Extremely helpful and knowledgeable.
Very clear explanations and no time pressure
I felt like Dr. Ratliff took all the time to discuss my neck issues and he answered my questions thoroughly
The surgery result have been excellent and exceeded any expectations. Follow-up has been excellent as well.
Great doctor, explains things thoroughly.
Please keep up the Excellent work!!!
He has been an excellent doctor for me. Very knowledgeable and informative. I’m very pleased with him.
Outstanding
Great Doctor!
SUPER1! GREAT! and MORE.....
Extremely competent surgeon who cares for his patients
Very through in describing what I needed and what the process was and what to expect next
John Ratliff is a genius. He removed the pain and depression I was dealing with, with my back. Thank you Dr. Ratliff, I appreciate you a lot.
My appointment with Dr Ratliff was outstanding!! He took the time to explain, and show on my MRI , what my health issue was. He took the time to explain what the surgery would entail; recovery time and what rehab I would need. my health issue was. He was kind and pleasant
Looking forward to having surgery with him. He is very easy to talk with.
Very good visit, DR Ratliff had good advise to hold off my neck surgery.
Dr Ratliff and his team are amazing. The most engaged I have experienced from a doctor.
Dr Ratliff was wonderful
John Ratliff is attentive and quick to assimilate information I give him and provide information back that is easy to understand. He seems to care about my wellbeing and gives honest opinions as to what should be done next with my health care. I feel I can put my trust in him to put my health and wellbeing first. Highly recommend as a surgeon.
Excellent doctor
Dr. Ratliff is a great surgeon and compassionate human. He's the best!!! He answers all your questions and concerns.
I recommend to all that will listen
I am grateful Dr Ratliff is in my life!
Dr. Ratliff is an excellent communicator and he listens well. He is also caring and empathetic. A great guy.
excellent M.D., very thorough, didn't feel rushed, discussed options other than surgery to start with
Dr. Ratliff is extremely easy to converse with, understand his explanations and suggestions and what his prognosis would be for the issue in question
I had a very excellent consultation and he took the time to explain procedures and plan
Dr Ratliffe was rude didn’t listen and was not prepared
Dr. Ratliff is a capable, caring practitioner and has a professional supportive staff. I feel I'm receiving the best possible care.
excellent doctor - keep it up
Thank you for accommodating my appointment via video
Dr. Ratliff was very knowledgeable and helped me understand my health issues.
Everyone was wonderful and caring.
I wish I'd ask more questions ...
I feel from my experience with Dr. Ratliff over the years that he is an excellent surgeon and I trust him implicitly.
He is very knowledgeable and very patient. He has told me every thing that I need to know.
Dr. Ratliff was excellent, very personal, very informative, such a nice gentleman
Staff was friendly nd knew their job. Dr. Ratliff was so nice to sit and answer our questions
best neurosurgeon
Providers are always very kind, respectful and answer all questions
Well qualified
Dr Ratliff is very pleasant doctor, he listens to my complaints and explained all my concerns in plain English. In my personal opinion he is one of the best doctor I’ve dealt with. He takes time seeing his patient, listening is one of his good traits. He is very detailed in explaining things pertaining to my ailment. I truly believe Dr Ratliff is a great asset to Stanford Neurology Department. Thank you Dr Ratliff.
Outstanding doctor.
He speaks clearly and I understood all medical terms. He spoke to me as if I was a friend. He didn’t talk down to me. He made everything very clear so I could make my health care decision, which was about surgery. He is a 10++. I was extremely pleased with my visit. It provided everything I was looking for.
Very helpful in diagnosing my overall spinal stenosis problems
This has got to be the most efficiently run medical facility in the world. Everyone I worked with, from check in to medical staff was friendly and professional.
He is a great doctor
Always very knowledgeble and professional
It went smoothly and timely
He was very easy to talk to and explain everything so I would understand.
I find Dr. Ratliff to be a caring doctor who listens well explains things well.
His depth of knowledge and extraordinary ability to explain the issue is amazing.
Discussed all options, received print-out for PT and pain appts care dx. Dr went over CD , very conservative options first. Telephone support horrible, covid protocol is ridiculous.
Excellent in every way. Knowledgable, efficient and understanding.
Simply, the BEST1
The nurses are very nice
Have no comments other than he is an excellent neurologist!
He listens well . He explains well.
Kind, compassionate, smart, thorough, did not rush, took the time to explain my MRI findings in detail.. I would highly recommend this doctor
Excellent Doctor explains everything so I understand all my options
Holly Moore NP is fantastic, very personable, listens really well, and very smart. Dr Ratliff is very nice, knowledgeable, goes out of his way to make sure you understand your options. He listens to your concerns and tries to accommodate your wished. Fantastic dr.
I really like John!
Very personable and professional. Everyone. Took their time and went over my medical issues and suggested a few options to help me. The doctor also suggested a certain test for me to take that I had never heard of. I was very comfortable with them and felt like they were willing to help me.
I would rate him as an excellent, very knowledgable physician. With a good "bed side manner".
Always excellent care at Stanford
Doctor did a great job
THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I feel so much better
His informed of every thing I was wanting to know. He also answer all questions to my satisfaction. It was a very pleasant visit with him.
I was in considerable pain during our visit. His manner was immediately one of understanding, acceptance, and reassurance, appropriate to me personally and at that point in time. His communication was clear and concise,,easily understood by me.
John Ratliff is extremely capable, a good listener, honest!
All areas of my visit (check-in, reception, PA, and appt with Dr. Ratliff) were excellent.
Exceptional care from all the doctors at this location
He did an excellent job!! 10 gold stars!!
Dr Ratliff, was extremely through and explained everything in detail about the spinal stenosis surgery.
Excellent doctor. Good and productive visit. The whole program is very efficient. Thank you.
Very easy to talk to. He was very thorough in explaining everything. My experience with him was very positive.
If Dr. Ratliff would be willing to accept me as a STENOSIS patient, I would be honored to have him as my A team neurosurgeon. I am extremely impressed with his communication skills and like him very much.ils
He gives me great confidence to know that all is being considered and done to improve my physical condition.
Dr. Ratliff is direct, clear and thorough. While he did not ask me about how I felt (not sure any doctor anywhere has ever done that), I felt extremely grateful, relieved and comforted that he was so clear and thorough and is doing additionally diagnostics to find out more info about the source of my pain. He is clearly head and shoulders above the doctors I've seen more locally.
Very nice staff. The doctors were very good at explaining their diagnoses.
Always excellent help
I was very very impress with Dr. Rattliff and will be coming back...
The provider is great but the waiting time was absurd, 1 hour and 30 minutes!
I think he is a great doctor and I hope my surgery demonstrates my faith in him.
Started with Janelle, then Holly the nurse practitioner, then Dr Ratliff. They all were fabulous!
He was very clear what should be done.
Very grateful for professionalism & explanations.
Efficient, informative, friendly and professional
Efficient, cordial, informative,
Great doctor, knows what he is doing and communicates very well with his patients. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs the type of surgery I had.
Dr. Ratliff is an excellent neurologist/neurosurgeon. I recommended him to a friend with back pain several months ago. He not only saw her right away, but he also did the surgery that same day due to the seriousness of her problem. She is well and smiling from ear to ear and will also be recommending any of her friends and family to see Dr. Ratliff with any neurological issues!
Superior Doctor!
Very careful and thorough physical and neurological exam.
Dr. Ratliff is caring. He's a good listener. He explains things well. He instills confidence.
Partly on me, but I left with many unanswered questions.
First of all I would like to thank the whole staff involved on my visit. From your receptionist to Dr. Ratliff. We were so impressed with the organization & timelessness of the staff. Dr. MIchael Jensen was very professional yet friendly and very knowledgeable taking time to explain my spine situationn in a very detailed manner. Dr. Ratliff, the same, professional, knowledgeable and reassuring. I am scheduled to have surgery on May 26,2022. We have noticed the lack of customer service from many organizations however Stanford shines when it comes to patient care & customer service!
Great staff. Very concerned and professional.
HE SEEMS VERY CONCERNED. IT IS TOO SOON TO SEE RESULTS.
Dr. Ratliff is an excellent doctor. He was very well prepared and knowledgeable about my condition. He had thoroughly reviewed my test results and described my current status clearly. Most importantly, he involved me in articulating the next steps in my treatment plan.
Explains in clear english, very supportive.
He listens to the patient and is very straight forward in his suggestions.
Dr. Ratliff is a great doctor and I trust whatever he suggests for further treatment.
He is an exceptional Dr.
Amazing thorough and feels easy to relate to. Thanks again
Doctor and nurse practitioner were very kind and listened to my concerns
THANK YOU
In a heart beat , best care ever
Looking forward and anticipating major benefits from his training knowledge and experience in addressing and solving this chronic back pain issue.
So happy to have a doctor with his expertise!
I was very pleased with my first consultation with Dr. Ratliff.
Excellent M.D. Very thorough. Listens well to my concerns and take time to give me a complete picture of my medical diagnosis and the solutions for treatment.
Efficient operation
Everyone was so kind and professional.
I would like to get so real answers why I still can’t walk and still hurt!
Dr. Ratliff is excellent. Very clear, concise and knowledgeable. Clearly invested in providing medical care and addressing my particular medical issues. Gave me confidence that I am being treated by the right team.
I haven't met him in person. This was a referral from Dr. Kenneth Blumenfeld. He was extremely knowledgeable about my condition.
He is a good doctor and I trust him
Excellent!
Extremely caring and confident. Nothing about him or his staff has made me feel uneasy. I feel very blessed to have him for my physician.
He is a great doctor
He’s is a wonderful surgeon who’s has helped me before with a very successful back surgery. I trust him completely
Excellent doctor and staff!
Dr. Ratliff is a fine doctor. Over the years, he has become a better listener and this is much too his credit. He is the best at what he does.
Dr. Ratliff was very attentive and heard me out. The approach to my road to recovery was positive and I look forward to my next visit. Such great bedside manners.
He explains problems and treatments well.
The surgery went very well. He has been very informative about everything.
Very patient and attentive to all my questions and concerns. Could not be better.
Dr. Ratliff was caring and understood my health history.
Dr Ratliff and Dr. Swenson explained things very well..
Dr. Ratliff and his team are awesome!
Everyone were amazing, thoughtful and helpful, all questions were answered and I never felt rushed,
Very professional
very knowledgeable and concerned with my health
Professional, thorough and knowledgeable!
t was excellent
He is caring
Great doctor with a great bedside manner.
Dr. Ratliff is an excellent surgeon and physician. He showed care and concern for my spinal issues every step of the way. I have already referred a friend to him for treatment with an outstanding result.
Good listener. Took the time we needed to get questions answered
He takes the time to listen and respond
Very excellent Dr and very careing with his patients
I'm deeply pleased with my surgery and also found Dr. Ratliff to be a warm compassionate person. I would recommend anyone considering back surgery talk with Dr. Ratliff. His supporting staff has also been wonderful -- listening well and offering help in useful ways. To be honest, I will miss my connection with Dr. Ratliff and his assistants. They have been a significant part of my life.
I have already recommended several friends
That you for the consultation and your time. Much appreciated. Very efficient and productive.
Excellent physician.Pleased with his professional knowledge and proficiency
He seems to be very through and dedicated to what he feels will work for you without jumping into Surgery.
Very personable and professional. Thank You.
Good
Absolutely recommend dr Ratliff
Thank you and your staff for making me able to walk and enjoy life without pain !
This was a bittersweet video visit. I am a year from back surgery and will miss checking in with my of wonderful professional team. Dr. Ratliff is so down to earth and caring while being the doctor I needed at this time in my life. He was very decisive in his direction for both my surgeries. So very grateful he agreed to do my surgeries.
excellent appointment with an excellent Dr.
He listened and answered all my questions.
Dr. Ratliff is an excellent surgeon and I have already recommended him to 2 other people who are experiencing symptoms that I had prior to surgery. Dr. Ratliff was receptive to my concerns and addressed all of the issues I presented prior to surgery. Follow up care was excellent and I feel very fortunate to have been a patient of Dr. Ratliff’s, and of Stanford as a whole.
I will heartily recommend Dr. Ratliff -- an excellent surgeon and empathetic doctor. I'm deeply grateful to have been able to have such good care.
Dr. Ratliff and his visiting Fellow were phenomenal at explaining he issues I was dealing with post-surgery and clear and honest about expectations I should have going forward.
ALWAYS EXPLAINS AND ANSWERS ALL MY QUESTIONS AND NEVER RUSHES ME
I feel that Dr Ratliff and his staff have been very responsive to problems I have had since the surgery. I feel well cared for.
I have been completely satisfied with every aspect of my care at Stanford.
Dr. Ratliff is a very personable and focused as well as detailed doctor. I was extremely impressed with his knowledge and focus on important details.
If you have the time to sit and await
I already have recommended Dr. Ratliff, his staff, and the Neurology Clinic to friends.
FROM CHECK IN FOR SURGERY TO THE 6 WEEK CHECK UP,ALWAYS PLEASANT
Excellent care and staff
ALL WAS BEYOUND MY EXPECTATIONS, JOB WELL DONE!!
Dr Ratliff answered all my questions and explained it thoroughly
Dr. Ratliff is awesome dr, take time to explain clear
Dr. Ratliff is a very caring, understanding and perceptive doctor. My experience with him cannot be any better.
Dr. Ratliff made me feel confident in my diagnosis and to help me realize the complexity and severity of my very rare condition. He explained my diagnosis and the approach he would take to remove my neuroenteric chronic cyst and syrnix in my spinal cord. I want the top surgeon, and Dr. Ratliff possesses the right amount of education, experience, and has a wonderful bedside manner. I hope to continue with Dr. Ratliff and the Neuroscience Clinic.
I have full confidence and trust in my doctor and his team
Dr. Ratliff is fantastic - feel very attended to! All the PA's as well Dr. Nathan!
doctor was a charm
Great experience!
all okay
Dr Ratliff was generous with his time and very thorough in explaining the surgical procedure to me
Holly the PA is wonderful and Dr Ratliff inspires so much confidence
I was made to feel comfortable, confident and everything was explained very well. I felt very connected
Each person that I came in contact with, while at your facility, was friendly, and professional. From your intake persons, the nursing staff, N.P. and Dr. Radcliff were all exceptional human beings!
I can't say enough about the concern and clarity of explanation regarding my situation. I felt very confident after my visit.
Dr. Ratliff is succinct & precise. I like his patience with my questions.
Dr. Ratliff has been following a spinal tumor I have for over 4 years. He is not only a brilliant doctor, but is also very kind and caring. He has been very responsive to questions and problems and coordinates with my other doctors. Many thanks to Dr. Ratliff!
Dr Nathan and Dr Ratliff didn't rush their examination nor their explanation for my options as I go forward with making a decision for back surgery. They both took time to review my MRI to explain my condition and the recommended surgery to correct it. Very very pleased.
Dr. Ratliff truly gave me my life back - he is a top notch surgeon who did an exceptional job with huge neck surgery! 5 level fusion w/cage. The pain & numbness was relieved.
Will definitely recommend!
Excellent doctor.
My doctor was excellent. Knowledgeable, personable and caring- I was confident that my problem would be addressed and I was right. The best doctor!!
Good experience.
All good.
It was all good.
I am very pleased with the care received from Dr. Ratliff at this visit. He has never made me feel rushed during our appointments. And overall, I think the doctor's skill and expertise were partially responsible for my rapid recovery from the multilevel laminectomy with fusion performed along with the anterior discectomy. I felt very confident in his abilities.
Great
Excellent experience.
vey good
I couldn't have asked for anything better
I would recommend Dr. Ratliff to anyone needing surgery. I had a good outcome thanks to him and was most impressed.
Excellent experience.
dr Raffliffe is the best dr I ever met!!!
Good job. Keep going!
all good
Dr. Ratliff is an excellent surgeon! He prepared me for the likely outcomes and everything went exactly as he said it would. He and the excellent Nurse Practitioners prepared me and have seen me through the surgery and current, ahead of schedule, recovery! I cannot imagine how it could have gone any better!
This experience is my second surgical event at Stanford Health. Dr.Ratliff and his Neurosurgery staff confirmed my trust that I made an excellent choice for my care both times.
Outstanding first visit with a doctor to whom I was referred by my primary care provider
Dr. Ratliff from the first time I met him, he introduced himself to me. He listened TO ME! He TOOK THE TIME to explain everything. He answered all my questions! It has been years since I trusted, felt safe with a doctor but Dr. Ratliff changed that.
I can't enough good things about Dr. Ratliff. He made me feel confident in his expertise in everything we discussed, he took time to answer all my questions and his manner is at once calming and professional. I have complete confidence in him to do my spinal cord surgery. Not something I can say about my previous neurosurgeon at UCSF. For the first time in almost two years since my initial diagnosis, I felt like I was in good hands with him and his NP, Holly Moore.
Both Holly Moore, N.P. and Dr. Ratliff were very professional and took the time to answer all my questions. I did not feel rushed.
I believe Dr. Ratliff is the right person to do surgery with his skill and God's hands guiding him. Therefore, I will be in good hands. and I appreciate Dr. Ratliffe's sincerity and kindness in helping me to understand what it is that needs to be done and I liked his confidence and the assurity I felt from him. I just knew I was in the right place.
Dr. Ratliff performed an excellent OB. Results was as he initially stated.
Dr. Ratliff is "the best" in my opinion. He is a very gifted surgeon - rebuilt my back. I am indebted to him.
Great!
John and his team inspire greet confidence.
Very warm, personable competent professional.
Dr. Ratlif checked my walking and agreed with me that I was coming along nicely but could use additional therapy for my gait and balance. Gave a new prescription.
Dr Ratliffe and his team are AWESOME! Especially Dr Ratliffe he is a amazing surgeon he performed my surgery and it was successful I am able to walk again and be independet!!! Thank you
I felt extremely lucky to get the exceptional Drs. and nurses in my case.
Excellent. Couldn't ask for a better doctor in every way possible. I would gladly recommend this doctor and staff to anyone and everyone. The best.
Good.
Good!
John was direct and clear. Really bolstered my confidence that there was a path back to health. I felt very confident in his skills.
Dr. Ratliff put me at ease about the surgery and the after care. He answers all the questions and concerns you have, and he takes his time to ensure you are okay. He really cares about his patient.
Dr Ratliff was very patient and thorough in explaining my condition and the options I have in treating it.
he could not do anything to help and referred me to another clinic. would prefer direct referral to a Dr with expertise in my area of concern rather then to clinic.
Dr. Ratliff only assessed me, he hasn't done surgery yet. I read his reviews and he's obviously well qualified.
Excellent experience with all involved
Dr. Ratliff is a fantastic surgeon who has given me new life thru reconstructing my lower back. He is also "all in" to consider new therapies to help, this patient. One of the very best!!!
Superb. I have seen multiple doctors in this speciality, and this one was far and away the best in terms of knowledge about my complex situation, compassion, and honesty in treatment plan recommendation. I have already recommended this provider to others.
Dr. Ratliff is the best Dr.
always a great experience with Dr Ratliff and his team.
Very informative without rushing. Came away feeling hopeful.
Both the NP and the physician were very good at explaining and seemed sincere in their desire to help.
John Ratliff & his staff are the best of the best! I feel very fortunate to be under their care.
I initially met with a NP ( Holly Moore) who was outstanding, in her manner, skill, and concern. I then met with Dr Ratliff who complete the review of my case and he determined several course of action to take as follow-up. Specifically he ruled out any further surgeries, but did acknowledge that continued pain management and physical therapy would be beneficial.
I asked for my bp at the clinic, but had to wait to get back home and log into MyHealth web site. While I found my bp online, I was unable to locate any specific notes from my visit. I have Never had my pb taken with an arm elevated. Thought that was unusual.
Dr Ratliff is the best physician/surgeon we have ever had the pleasure to count on for health needs.
I consider myself very fortunate to be in the care of Dr. Ratliff. Dr. Ratliff and his supporting staff have made me feel more at ease with my diagnosis, and the thoracic spine surgery I will be needing.
I was put in full control of my care decisions. Woud recommend Dr. Ratlliff and his team in a heartbeat.
Dr. Ratliff was a joy to work with, straight forward, honest & always professional.
Dr. Ratliff is an excellent doctor. He has great bedside manner too.
Dr. Ratliff is a world class specialist, his team is also very talented. It is fortunate that this level of expertise is available to patients in need
Gave me a more optimistic outlook for my condition.
exvellent
Ratliff was really good to me, he very honest and up front with me
DrRatliff is super.
Dr. John Ratliff and his is very helpful and very listen to all my problems during my visit on the phone awesome staff. Thank you all.
good
I have overwhelming gratitude for the care and skill received from Dr. Ratliff. He has enabled me to continue my productive life and no words exist that can fully convey my appreciation.
Spoke evenly paced, but there was a lot of information. It would have been helpful if he either wrote out a plan or made plan accessible via health app.
Dr. Ratliff and his staff are top notch, and very easy to discuss issues with.
absolute confidence in Dr Ratliff
Dr Ratliff is extremely good at describing both the problem and solutions and in recommending future courses of action.
Best service I have had at any of my health services except UCSF - equal.
Dr. very caring.
The surgeon I saw, Dr. Ratliff & his fellow (can't remember his name) explained my back pathology very well & showed me a picture from the MRI. They satisfied my need for information re: non surgical options & long term probability of my needing surgery.
Dr. Ratliff spent a long time to meet me and explain the surgery procedure. He is a wonderful Dr. Highly recommend to others.
J. Ratliff was excellent.
Ratliff and his team are rock stars
excellent no real wait time.
I would have liked a little more time with Dr. Ratliff so that I could formulate more questions about the cervical surgery, but I was a bit slow. I was surprised that he would be able to accomplish so much, and now that I've had more time to think I can use MyHealth to ask about anything important.
even though they say some things I am not thrilled about hearing, they make sure I know they are doing everything possible.
A straightforward visit that presented an honest assessment of the problems, advised additional radiological testing needed to be more certain, and scheduled a visit for a followup consultation. Drs Applebaum and Ratliff exceeded all expectations.
Best doctor EVER!!!
No medications prescribed.
Dr. Ratliff and his assistant are friendly people and excellent practitioners. Knowing Dr. Ratliff's team is working on my behalf has a calming effect on me.
The doctor was very nice and explained my results with details. Thanks! Very good doctor!
Superb in all regards. Can only wish most other physicians were like this.
I felt a little rushed, I also felt that somehow he was holding something back more like he was annoyed with me, don't know for sure just a feeling
Dr. Ratliff - excellent.
Dr. Ratliff was very courteous and helped me with my issue. He answered my questions and walked me to the exit door.
Dr. Ratlliff was/is the ultimate in the medical field. He made us (husband and daughter) feel very comfortable and explained the procedure he had in mind for me in terms that we understood.
Very good doctor.
After my procedure I was given very little instruction about the level of activity I should have. My wife, a professor at UCSF, was with me and I listed that I wanted her to be present post procedure as she had many questions, this was not done and the surgeon passed through very quickly and didn't not answer my, or her more specifically, questions.
dr. extremely knowledgeable experienced especially intelligent
Dr and NP were helpful without being condescending.
Dr. Radliff was amazing!
Very impressed with Dr. Ratliff & his assistant. Both were very helpful & answered all my questions. I didn't feel like I was being rushed. They spent plenty of time with me.
Dr Ratliff and his staff were very attentive to our needs and concerns
I'd choose a 6 for "excellent" if it was offered!
dr ratliff is awesome. seems like he really cares about his patient's care and success of treatment.
excelent doctors work in Stanford
Very Good experience
he seemed dismissive and not interested in helping me with my pain or instability.
I can't begin to express my gratitude for Dr. Ratliff and his staff.
Surgeon beyond extraordinary in skill \
Perfect.
Very, very pleased with Dr. Ratliff.
I have recommended Dr. Ratliff to several others over the last 2 years.
I trust and respect Dr. Ratliff's opinions and approach to my condition.
Our doctor was very friendly, kind, thoughtful. He listened to our concerns. He was great.
Doctor Ratliff is phenomenal. He was familiar with my condition, he explained the alternatives, and formulated a plan of action. My stress level at the first visit was incredibly high, but I left the appointment feeling absolutely relieved, even though I potentially faced surgery. His competence, his knowledge, his commanding presence were all truly amazing. I've felt the way I did after seeing Dr. Ratliff twice in my life. Once when I was seven and my Marine dad returned from overseas after a year, and again after my visit with Dr. Ratliff.
Dr. Ratliff has been absolutely amazing & gave me my life back I will FOREVER BE GRATEFUL.
Dr. Ratliff seemed more rushed than usual.
Dr. Ratliff gave me a very good post-operative report--seemed very pleased that the surgery had gone so well!
She was superb and Exceptional
Very good!
Already have recommended Dr. Ratliff to someone.
Great doctors
It was my first meeting with the doctor for my second opinion regarding my sciatica pain of my lumbar. However, the doctor spent very little time between 7 - 10 minutes was the most. it was very little time consider for the consultation of first visit. I had many questions that I like to ask or need some clarification but the doctor was so rush.
dr. Ratliff was great. I felt confident that I was in the right hands.
care provider was helpful. upon my health concern he tried all his best to solve my health issues
Extremely good.
Dr Ratliff (and others who examined me) explained things and answered my questions with concern and humor. I feel I am in the best hands possible!!
Will definitely recommend
Amazingly positive experience. Have seen other providers for same problem and this was by far best
Would highly recommend Varia and Dr. Ratliff any day!
Both NP's that I had come to know through the experience came to check in with me and made me feel great. Dr. Ratliff is my hero for bringing feeling and mobility back to my calf, ankle, foot and toes. He is the best!
Could not have better!
Dr. Ratliff was very informative, took his time with us and answered all our questions. His assistant Vania Bernatsky NP was just as informative. She answered my emails the same day. I am very impressed with them both.
Dr. Ratliff went out of his way to give thoughtful, complete answers to all questions. The resident who participated was also excellent.
Great!
Dr. Ratliff is very knowledgeable and thorough. He took a lot of time to review the MRI and CT scans with me. I felt very confident in his assessment of my condition. The younger doctor who assisted him was also very helpful and competent.
Took time with me to review my MRI and go over any results. I was very pleased with my visit and feel encouraged about my prognosis.
I've been seen by a number of back surgeons, Dr. Ratliff is the first one I feel very comfortable with.
Dr. Ratliff is one of the best doctors I have ever visited. I have been very impressed with his care.
Dr Ratliff is the finest healthcare provider and surgeon. He really listens and is present/focused.
Vania is very compassionate & empathetic & sweet. Dr. Ratliff was understanding & explained all my options & seemed genuinely concerned with my issues/pain & quality of life.
Dr. Ratliff was very professional.
Excellent provider! Listened, was knowledgeable, friendly and made me feel he really cared.
Dr. Ratliff helped ease my mind that my problem was not as serious as I had feared.
Everything was always very good. Talk was good, always friendly and positive. Always giving you the impression that I was talking to a friend, a good friend.
Dr. Ratliff reviewed prior cd films of my spine from other providers and clearly showed me and explained what he saw. We discussed other tests to consider but he clearly explained that in all likelihood, spinal neurosurgery would not be able to resolve my medical condition.
OK.
We discussed further surgery, and decided it would not substantially improve my quality of life compared to the extensive risks and extended recovery time involved. Physical therapy seems to be a better alternative.
Excellent Dr
Very good.
I like that he was not rushing and took the time to listen and answer my concerns.
Hurried delivery of important information about propose surgery methodology.
The best!
Excellent care provided.
For a 15 min. appointment, care was very good to excellent, but it simply is not enough time.
Both the dr. and the fellow I saw were great. Spent more time with the fellow who was VERY polite, considerate and helpful. I was so impressed with my experience.
The dr. gave me answers to my condition.
I have utmost confidence in all who attended me made me feel like center of attention instead of on side lines.
The doctor spent two minutes telling me to stay with my current doctor and plan. My drive from Tracy was a huge waste of time. The students did an exam. The doctors didn't touch me.
This applies to nurse practitioner & to the doctor on the previous visit.
All good, further testing scheduled.
Very good experiences.
More tests were needed before we could discuss treatment options.
Dr. was kind, took time to explain, etc. - I appreciated not feeling rushed.
The appointment felt very rushed - there was A LOT of information given and decisions had to be made at that time - I would have liked to have spent more time evaluating my condition.
I didn't get time to talk about injuries meds & pain!

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