John Swalec's Online Review Report Card

Dr. Swalec treated my father suffering with lymphoma with nothing but hostility, rudeness, condescension, and arrogance. He went on a tirade against us and told us he didn't want to hear any comments from us, and told me I was not welcome to accompany my Dad to Cancer Care anymore. I reported him immediately and the Manager of Radiology was shocked by his unacceptable and aggressive behavior and assured me that I was welcome back and that my father would be receiving a new Doctor. Dr Swalec is the most unprofessional Doctor I have ever met, but he is the only terrible Doctor we have had the misfortune of seeing at the otherwise excellent Cancer Care Center.

Dr Swalec saw my father at Cancer Care and was nothing but hostile and tried to intimidate us. He told us we were not allowed to make any comments as he went on a tirade completely unrelated to my dad's cancer treatment. He also told me not to come back, even though I accompany my father to his appointments and advocate for him. I reported him at once. The staff was shocked by how he treated us. The Manager of Radiology apologized repeatedly, was visibly upset and assured me I was welcome back any time. She is getting my dad a new radiologist so we never have to deal with that monstrous man Dr Swalec again.

Dr. Swalec is a very smart doctor with years of experience in using radiation to treat cancer and helping to prevent reoccurances. ALL of my questions were answered thoroughly and I never felt rushed, even on the busiest Tuesday when two doctors were out so the others pitched in so all patients were seen. He was VERY thorough at each visit and now that I've talked to others that saw other doctors, I appreciate his thoroughness even more! Everyone at Lafayette Center, from the friendly young receptionist, to the volunteers that talk with you to make time pass faster, to each of the radiologists, nurses, patient advocates and doctors are ALL top notch!

We had a very pleasant, useful and informative meeting with Dr. Swalec. He gave us a thorough explanation of my condition, my options and the likely outcomes thereof. He also listened carefully to our questions and gave us straightforward answers, interspersed with a gentle sense of humor. I have the greatest confidence that with Dr. Swalec's direction I will receive the best care possible for my condition.

Dr Swalec used me as a human guinea pig to test a new "state of the art" machine. When I started developing serious complications - he minimized them. He later admitted to me that he had to jerry rig my treatment and it ended up sending too much radiation to my colon. Dr Swalec was rude and uncaring even when it became clear that he had caused unnecessary damage to me. I ended up having to get follow up treatment out of state and am suffering as a result. I would never recommend Dr Swalec.

Everyone was so nice and caring during my treatment

Very personable and caring. Spent time we needed and helped answer our questions. Never felt rushed. Everyone from entering building till we left made us comfortable.

He is a wonderful doctor who tells you honest answers. It’s a bit shocking at first to hear some of his blunt answers, but in retrospect, I wouldn’t have wanted to make any decisions about my health that are this important without his honest input. He saved my life and the life of my cousin and another friend. Outstanding doctor, who always has honest, sometimes slightly brutal answers.

I've always heard that the Lafyette Cancer Center (Cancer Care of Maine), in Brewer, Maine was a great place to go if anyone ever needed it. Unfortunately, I am not sure that would fare as true. I was referred to see John Swalec as a consultation to decide on whether radiation therapy was something I should consider after a prostatectomy. I am happy to see Dr's that are passionate about their line of work, but I think Dr. Swalec has portfolio stock in Northeast Radiation Oncology (the radiation company). It kind of felt like a used car salesman but only pushing radiation. He very often would interrupt by blurting out answers to questions he thought were coming, when the question being asked was rhetorical and not a yes/no question. He would also evade questions, making me ask them a second time in order to get a clear answer. Overall, it was a horrible experience. I would NOT recommend Dr. Swalec to anyone He doesn't try to have a discussion with the patient to inform and give options. Instead, he tries to convince you that radiation is what you need. Kind of like walking past the games booth at a state fair..."Step right up..." I wouldn't recommend him.

He doesn't listen! He speaks over you and interrupts during conversation. He tries to guess your questions and blurt out yes/no answers, and doesn't seem set-back when the question is rhetorical. If you want to talk to someone about a serious oncology decision in your life, don't see Dr. John Swalec. Used car-salesman mentality. I think he's more concerned with selling radiation more than the patient and their health.