Herman Spilker's Online Review Report Card

I took my mother to him for an echo and he was extremely rude. He acted inconvenienced about the whole thing and irritated with my questions. I WILL not go back to him or recommend him to anyone. He is in the wrong profession if he can’t show a little compassion and caring for a sick lady who is scared.

Dr. Spilker is very good. His staff are idiots. They told me today, after three previous visits that I had to have a referral to see the doc. DESPITE the fact I DON'T, and their claims have been PAID, AND I have a $10 credit for a co-pay they erroneously charged me. So... I have found ANOTHER cardiologist, and will NEVER set foot in The Naples Heart Institute, ever again.

If you go to this Dr. YOU have made a huge mistake.. He does not have your best intrests at heart!!

Doctor Spilker is a caring and very competent physician. His initial exam of my heart was very detailed. He asked many pertinent questions concerning my health and my heart history. As I left his office I knew my heart was in fine shape and ready for knee replacement.

Last week I spoke with "Paula," front desk receptionist at Dr. Spilker's office. I found her to be extremely rude, as if her precious time were being wasted. Her attitude was nonsensical considering the fact that it is patients like me who indirectly pay her salary.

Dr Spilker has a very relaxed manner. He is thorough I his examination. Answers all questions and puts patients at ease. I have and would again recommended friends to him.

This Dr. has some of the most uncaring, egotistical, poor communications skills I've ever experienced from a physician, and especially from a Specialist. He certainly does not know how to sell the new relationship NCH hospital, and NCH-Heart Institute are suppose to have with the Mayo. I have been accustomed to telling the physician if I want a family member who lives out of the state to be conferenced in on my cell phone during my exam, this has never been questioned, and a;ways accepted by my physician. Today this Dr. said it was his purogative to decide who listens in. I tried to say as family members all who are my dad's medical POA also have a purogative, but my dad (released from NCH 10 days ago) and always avoids confrontation, told me to forget this. My opinion, family members have always had the right to participate in a major medical discussion at the patience's request. To top this off, the doctor changed some meds. If I'd not been there, my dad would not have been aware of this, since the printed post exam list of meds to bring home, was what the nurse obtained during her in-take history and not post-exam by Physician. During the exam the Dr. asked if my dad lives alone, and dad answered yes. No further questions or suggestions were made, not even asking if dad has a self-alert necklace/bracelet so if he falls, can't get out of bed, what would he do? I was the one to ask how much exercise dad should do, should he change his diet, and how might the physicians (Internists, Cardiologists, Rheumatologists, Physical Therapists, and who ever else we may need down the road) could best communication both with my dad, siblings and me? Dr. S. basically said if my dad wants to remain with his Naples Internist of 20 years - who is not part of the 'new' NCH system/Mayo electronic communication network- it is his choice. I also asked if the Dr. is concerned whether dad should drive? He said this episode should not affect his ability to drive. I asked if there is a third party to evaluate his response times? He asked if there have been accidents or times dad's been lost driving? Dad said no. No further discussion. I have known many families in MN, including family members of Nurses not affiliated with Mayo, who have been treated at Mayo in Rochester, MN. They have all stated they were treated with the most respect, felt comfortable to ask any questions, and felt all the staff and Physicians there were very focused on communications, questions, and clarification. Perhaps it was a bad day for this doctor, but he in my opinion in NO WAY reflects standards I believe most expect from Mayo, or an affiliate. Should my family need another opinion from a Cardiologist, I'll do what I can to persuade my reluctant dad and siblings to stand up for our wants. Should NCH, NCH-Heart Institute, and Mayo wish to convey a quality image, I sincerely hope upper management reads and acts upon this opinion. Then perhaps, this is an example of and 'old boys network' of physicians who resent the new collaborative, team oriented, trend in medicine.

Dr, Spilker is a very competent and caring physician. He takes the time to address all of our concerns and we have never felt rushed. Our wait time in the office has been very minimal. The staff is friendly and the office is run efficiently. We would highly recommend Dr. Spilker as we are very comfortable in his care.

Dr. Spilker is a top notch physician who displays a professional, caring demeanor. When having any tests performed, his follow-up is timely and accurate. He makes you feel comfortable and secure knowing you have the best care possible.