James H Bower's Online Review Report Card

Dr. Bower performed a neuro exam in his office & read the doctor's interpretations of the autonomic test results he ordered, he saw "no evidence of a neurological disorder." He disregarded the clinical notes from 2+ years with my neurologist & movement disorder specialist. He said, "Anxiety can cause tremor" "Levodopa also helps restless legs." "Arthritis can cause these motor symptoms." No sensation in my skin? "The EMG was normal" Need to strain several times to empty the bladder? "The sonogram showed no urine in your bladder." Blood pressure drops significantly? "Tilt table was normal. "Fasciculations?" EMG was normal. My husband told him that he could feel my muscles twitch all night. I asked at the follow-up tele-visit about the accuracy of the DaTscan, he said, "Very good question. If I'd seen you off of Levodopa, I would have been able to give you a diagnosis." We spent 9 days and about $3,000 but he never suggested pausing my meds so he could assess my motor symptoms. :(

Upon a recommendation by a member of the Mayo Board of Directors, I contacted Dr. Bower to seek a second opinion on a diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia that I received at Rush Memorial. I was told that within 30 minutes Dr. Bower "rejected" me as he was certain the first diagnosis was correct and that I was receiving appropriate treatment and Rush. Consequently there was "nothing he could do for me."That was difficult for me to understand as he had no records from Rush. I told the woman to whom I was speaking that he could certainly give me a second opinion. She asked if that was what I wanted (after already being told that) and then said it didn't matter anyway as I was already rejected as an inappropriate patient for Mayo's neuro body movement doctors. The entire experience was was not only disappointing but humiliating as well. I only posted one star because that is a requirement to post.

Very professional, competent, and knowledgeable about rare neurologic condition. I'm very grateful for the opportunity to work with him.

I had seen more than 10 physicians without a conclusive diagnosis. I was a self-referral to Mayo Clinic and was seen by Dr. Bower within a month from my initial call. He had already read my extensive medical record and was very engaged in reaching a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan from the moment he entered the room. His bedside manner is professional, patient, and caring. He explained the diagnosis well, and I had immediate confidence that he knew what he was doing. I was tremendously grateful after more than a year of getting nowhere. Even though travel expenses are significant, I will continue to invest as needed in ensuring I receive this type of care.

Dr. Bower is a wonderful doctor. He's thorough, patient, kind and willing to go the extra mile to ensure you're comfortable with your diagnosis. He never appears rushed. He's gentle with not so great news and genuinely seems very happy for you when things go well. I would never consider changing doctors. I know I can trust him and the care he gives me. He's the best there is. I feel so fortunate to have such a good doctor.