James E. Dowdell, III, MD

Orthopedic Surgery

HSS - The Pavilion

541 East 71st Street, 4th Floor

New York, NY 10021 Directions

(212) 224-7980

www.hss.edu

5.0 out of 5

352 verified ratings

352 Ratings, 44 Comments


The following ratings and reviews are based on verified feedback collected from independently administered patient experience surveys. The ratings and comments submitted by patients reflect their own views and opinions. Patient identities are withheld to ensure confidentiality and privacy.
Apr 6, 2026
I was impressed with Dr. Dowdell and his PA in regards to how they approached my problems. Rather than being a sounding board, they exhibited a genuine problem-solving approach to a solution which we are currently exploring.

Apr 6, 2026
Dr. Dowdell listened to my concerns & treated me with care & respect. He did not rush me into a decision as he clearly explained his approach and rationale for my surgery- which was assuring. Many thanks to his whole staff/team for the care they have given me through this whole process. I would highly recommend Dr. Dowdell to anyone who is in need of spinal care.

Mar 17, 2026
Great approach and explanation

Mar 16, 2026
Both Dr. Dowdell and his PA (?) provided as much time as I needed to discuss my malady and the treatment options for it.

Mar 9, 2026
The best experience, received callbacks when I called with explanations of questions. That’s rarely seen in the medical field these days.

Mar 9, 2026
My experience as always was terrific. The care and concern of everyone excellent!

Mar 9, 2026
Dr Dowdell made me feel confident

Mar 9, 2026
He's just the greatest, both professionally and personally. I trust him completely

Mar 9, 2026
Dr Dowdell is providing exceptional level of care and I am profoundly grateful. Very exchange at every level, the hospital and his office in Paramus has been professional , timely, reliable and courteous including phone contacts and portal communications. And so far I am very optimistic about the clinical effectiveness of the surgery. Thank you

Mar 2, 2026
Since last August I could not stand for more than 2 minutes. Dr Dowdell explained what the problem was, treated me non-invasively and set up another appointment to re-evaluate. He told me he thought that my condition might resolve itself. During the 2 month interim my condition improved to the point where I am pain free. The MAIN TAKE AWAY is that before the end of my first visit he said "I'm not going to leave you hanging, we can fix this." He was the fourth doctor I saw about the condition and the only one who gave me hope. Whether that had anything to do with resolving my problem I do not know, but it certainly reassured me that I would get my life back. He is my hero!

Feb 27, 2026
My surgeon -Dr Dowdell is the best. He gave me all the information I needed. I was well informed and well taken cared for. His bedside manner were wonderful. I am very lucky to have him as my surgeon

Feb 22, 2026
Every interaction was good; professional, compassionate , detailed and thorough. And I also appreciated the answers to my inquiry in the portal and the efficiency with which the paperwork was expedited with outside agencies.

Feb 17, 2026
Great doctor and PA. The staff was fantastic.

Feb 17, 2026
Dr. Dowdell was excellent as was the PA and staff

Feb 17, 2026
Dr. Dowdell addressed my concerns after explaining in detail my spinal condition.

Feb 13, 2026
Dr. Dowdell is wonderful. He clearly explained his approach and rationale for my surgery, patiently and thoroughly answered my questions, and ensured that he could take the approach he felt would deliver me the best outcome.

Feb 11, 2026
He was running late, which happens, BUT he apologized, which rarely happens!

Feb 9, 2026
Precise and thorough information provided

Feb 9, 2026
My experience was excellent. The kindness of the staff and the knowledge of Dr. Dowdell helped to ease my anxiety and made me feel comfortable. He explained everything and took lots of time with me. I highly recommend him. Very pleasant experience!

Feb 9, 2026
Dr. Dowdell is THE BEST. He is very attentive, informative, concerned, knowledgeable. He explains the procedure at hand very clearly, in layman's terms. He takes as much time as needed during a visit. He is friendly, and easy to talk to. He makes you feel at home and he treats you like you're a good friend. I'm so glad that I selected him from the roster of others for my orthopedic needs.

Feb 7, 2026
Very friendly, very thorough, very experienced

Jan 28, 2026
Dr. Dowdell took the time to listen to my concerns & treated me with care & respect. After my visit with him, I feel hopeful that my treatment plan will help elevate the constant pain that I’m experiencing.

Jan 28, 2026
I went for a second opinion. He listened was very objective and after hearing my concerns on dealing with the particular surgery, he encouraged me to go with the initial approach which greatly alleviated my anxiety about the particular surgery. I found this to be extremely helpful and not based on whether or not he got another patient, but on the care of the patient so I will be going to my original doctor for the one particular surgery. Ironically, the reason why I was going to see him was for my back surgery and it turned out. We only discussed the cervical issue. I just developed so overall it was a very positive experience.

Jan 28, 2026
Excellent doctor

Jan 20, 2026
Dr Dowdell and his PA

Jan 20, 2026
Dr. Dowdell was excellent. I cannot say enough great things about him. It's looking like he diagnosed me with a problem that MANY other providers glossed over. I'm hoping for a great resolution to my condition. Thank you for coming to Paramus. We never would have been able to go into the city. Hoping my probable surgery can be in NJ also.

Jan 20, 2026
very impressed

Jan 14, 2026
Dr. James Dowdell is a professional, smart and caring doctor!

Jan 13, 2026
He’s an amazing Dr!

Jan 12, 2026
Every single person from the desk to the P.A. and doctor were super nice and pleasant and spent quality time talking and listening. One of the few times I visited with a Dr. and did not feel rushed! Great job!

Dec 22, 2025
He visited me four times after the surgery on the same day. He called me the next few days after surgery to check on me and gave me insight into my recovery. He is also accessible through messaging.

Dec 12, 2025
Dr. Dowdell and his office was wonderful.

Dec 10, 2025
Everything was professional and Dr. Dowdell listened ! Great experience

Dec 10, 2025
Excellent overall

Dec 10, 2025
Dr. Dowdell is amazing

Dec 9, 2025
Dr. Dowdell and his staff are consummate professionals and are top shelf.

Dec 2, 2025
Dr. James Dowdell great listener to every thing I had to say. He did not rush me in any way. He found two problems already and has formulated a plan forward. The staff were also wonderful with me and my wife. Highly recommended him.

Dec 2, 2025
I came in for a second opinion on post spinal surgery continued poor mobility and pain. PA was thorough, listened and did an evaluation on all aspects of mobility. I was truly thankful of the time she took with me to listen to my ailments and goals.

Dec 2, 2025
Total package top shelf! Thank you

Dec 1, 2025
Dr. Dowdell and his assistant MinJoo, treated my sister kindly, patiently, professionally and interestedly.

Nov 26, 2025
Hes a fantastic Dr cares, explains, listens, & remembers

Nov 26, 2025
Very pleased on detailed information about surgery

Nov 17, 2025
Dr. Dowdell and his staff are the best team of clinicians that I’ve dealt with. They are caring, empathetic, and efficient. I have recommended Dr. Dowdell to many friends and family and will continue to do so as he is one of the best clinicians I have dealt with, ever!

Nov 17, 2025
Your facility and staff were excellent in all categories...Very High complements to all. Thanks to you All