Jerome L. Kolavo, MD

Jerome L. Kolavo, MD

4.8 
419 ratings  Read Reviews
Northwestern Medicine logoNorthwestern Medicine Regional Medical Group

Primary Specialty

Spine Surgery

Secondary Specialty

Insurance

For specific plans, see the full plan list. To be sure this medical professional is covered by your insurance plan, please contact your insurance carrier.

Practice Focus Areas

Education

Medical Education:
MD, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine - 1983
Internship:
University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago - 1984
McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University - 1985
Residency:
McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University - 1989
Fellowships:
Rush University Medical Center - 1990

Board Certifications

  • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery - Orthopaedic Surgery (Certified)

Faculty Profile

Health System Clinician, Feinberg School of Medicine

View Faculty Profile

Practice Groups and Affiliations

Medical Group:
Northwestern Medicine Regional Medical Group
Alignment Category:
Northwestern Medicine Physician Network
On Medical Staff At:
Central DuPage Hospital
Delnor Hospital
Kishwaukee Hospital
Northwestern Medicine Surgery Center

Ratings and Reviews

At Northwestern Medicine, our patient’s feedback is important to us. While different care providers have their own unique strengths, we strive to be as transparent as possible with our quality of care.

Read Ratings FAQs

Overall Rating

4.8
4.8 

419 Ratings

Reviews from Patients

100 Most Recent Reviews

Reviews from Patients

100 Most Recent Reviews

August 30, 2022

5.0

Thorough Expertise Professional Clear Kind

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

August 28, 2022

5.0

Careful and attentive care.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

August 22, 2022

5.0

Excellent service

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

August 19, 2022

5.0

Listens to you…great advice

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

August 13, 2022

5.0

Dr Kolavo is very thorough and spends time with his patients. He lays out his expectations and next steps, so there are no surprises.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

August 09, 2022

5.0

Dr. Kolavo is straightforward and honest

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

August 09, 2022

5.0

Dr. K. presented himself unhurried, interested in my concerns & issues. He provided answers to all my questions I had by the end of my exam & outcome of films. He went over findings & recommendations. I couldn’t be more satisfied & very happy I chose to come see him.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

August 02, 2022

5.0

Gives the best care for his patients

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

July 31, 2022

5.0

He was the best

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

July 27, 2022

5.0

The Doctor was very through and answered all my questions

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

July 27, 2022

5.0

He ilistens very well and answers questions patiently. He is very knowledgeable and trustworthy.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

July 20, 2022

5.0

makes things clear and covers what we need to know

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

July 09, 2022

5.0

Good doctor

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

July 06, 2022

5.0

Dr. Kolavo is very thorough and takes plenty of time with patients.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 30, 2022

5.0

Thorough and kind. Honest.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 29, 2022

5.0

Takes time to listen

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 28, 2022

5.0

Good bedside manner. Knowledgeable.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 28, 2022

5.0

Very knowledgeable competent Doctor

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 27, 2022

5.0

He is an experienced, caring physician giving world class care to his patients

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 24, 2022

5.0

Very concerned about improving my condition

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 21, 2022

5.0

Dr. Kolavo is the best.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 21, 2022

4.0

Really listened and asked me lots of questions. Very easy to talk to and seemed like he really cared. Friendly.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

June 08, 2022

5.0

Dr. Kolavo gave a very complete exam and went through my test results with details examining my condition . He gave very good instructions and help so I had a lot of hope of recovery.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 29, 2022

5.0

Dr Kolavo is very knowledgeable and great at explaining issues. He is very efficient in making sure the correct tests are being done. He is very thorough. He is dedicated and caring.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 28, 2022

5.0

Kolavo not only follows through but I am not a number in his office but a real patient

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 27, 2022

5.0

I was given the time to express my issues and points of concern. I was heard. I was given full attention and a thorough examination. I need more tests but I am not surprised at the recommendation for them. My dr fully understands my concerns. He asked so many questions that I didn’t understand why were asked but he helped Me understand why they were asked in regard to my condition.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 18, 2022

5.0

Thorough

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 18, 2022

5.0

Kind, down to earth, really spoke on my level, made me feel very comfortable with his recommendations

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 11, 2022

5.0

Focused on the best outcome for me. Was very thorough in assessing my complex spine issues. Prompt care. Sought input from his peers

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 10, 2022

5.0

Traditional thorough and personal examinations.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 10, 2022

5.0

Caring, helpful answers all questions

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

May 03, 2022

5.0

Dr. Kolavo is a thorough professional who works to find reasons for pain in a caring and efficient way.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 30, 2022

5.0

Very kind and caring. Thank you.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 27, 2022

5.0

I felt heard and understood, and he explained my imaging and issues very thoroughly. Kind, professional, and respectful.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 27, 2022

5.0

Dr Kolava was very thoughtful and understanding of my issues .

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 22, 2022

5.0

Initial visit was thorough, thoughtful, informative and he listened to me. I’ve got significant and multiple spine issues and had ordered a new image to gain more insight and we will meet to review

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 19, 2022

5.0

Excellent explanation of findings and service

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 17, 2022

5.0

feel he was thorough and listened to what was said

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 14, 2022

5.0

Took time to explain how bad a shape I was in

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 12, 2022

4.0

One visit isn't enough to give him a 10 but he seemed both knowledgeable and kind.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 12, 2022

4.0

Going on his behavior and bedside manner. Nice.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 06, 2022

5.0

Caring. Professional. Empathic. Knowledgeable. Inviting.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 04, 2022

5.0

I like his explanations and his explanations of what I had to look forward to. I feel he is very truthful on what is going to happen.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

April 01, 2022

5.0

He was very kind and explains everything and why.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

March 17, 2022

5.0

Dr K took time to explain my MRI and review the digital pictures. He listened and provided feedback. After a through consultation, he provided an action plan that consisted of a different medication and physical therapy. He also asked Dr Papagiannopoulous office to move up my epidural steroid shot that was scheduled 2 weeks out.

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

March 16, 2022

4.0

Good score for a doctor who is trying to have good bed side manners

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

March 16, 2022

5.0

Explains well

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

March 15, 2022

5.0

Competence

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 25, 2022

5.0

Listened to my problem and seemed to want to help get me better .

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 20, 2022

5.0

Good doctor

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 18, 2022

5.0

He listened to my long list of complaints. He was very helpful. We arrived at a plan. He was recommended by many friends.

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 16, 2022

5.0

He was knowledgeable m, concerned and made me feel he was interested in solving the problem.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 15, 2022

5.0

He is great

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 15, 2022

5.0

It’s good to know that there are Doctors Out there that you can feel safe and have trust in.

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 12, 2022

5.0

he's very knowledgeable and no nonsense

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 11, 2022

5.0

He explain things to me & thanks

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 08, 2022

5.0

He is determined to find the reason for my pain

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

February 01, 2022

5.0

Excellent surgeon! I’m having great results from my back surgery.

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 27, 2022

5.0

Best

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 26, 2022

4.0

It was a first visit, but he was very nice.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 18, 2022

5.0

Well I believe he truly cares about his patients. I’m very fortunate that he was my surgeon; because, he is the BEST!

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 18, 2022

5.0

Very thorough and explains a diagnoses clearly.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 16, 2022

5.0

He showed true concern for my problems and is very knowledgeable.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 15, 2022

5.0

Very thorough and takes the time to explain everything

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 14, 2022

5.0

Excellent patient care

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 14, 2022

5.0

Bedside manner and experienced knowledge.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 13, 2022

5.0

Cares for his patients

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 13, 2022

5.0

He’s the most qualified spine surgeon I know of

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 12, 2022

5.0

Competent and thoughtful surgeon

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 12, 2022

5.0

Experience and knowledge

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 10, 2022

5.0

He is very easy top talk to and explains all details of test results even prints me copy of my x-rays which I think is very import to carry with you in case of emergency. I like the fact that he personally knows my other doctors. And that he would also inform his personal opinion about my test results to my other doctors who know about my conditions. It always better to have a group knowledge when making a decision on what's best for the patient.

Was this helpful? Yes (2) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 08, 2022

5.0

Excellent surgeon

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

January 02, 2022

5.0

He was careful and methodical about assessing my pain. I felt he also was listening to what I had to say.

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 29, 2021

5.0

Dr.Kolavo very experienced doctor and knows what he's doing shows you your test results what is wrong with you and what could be fixed how long recovery time will he is a straightforward doctor and seems very professional

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 23, 2021

5.0

Dr Kolavo is very good, knowledgeable, and professional!

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 22, 2021

5.0

He was extremely thorough and kind

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 21, 2021

5.0

He fixed me

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 21, 2021

5.0

He gives superior care in a friendly caring way

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 21, 2021

5.0

Kind, great at teaching and explaining test results

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 19, 2021

5.0

Dr. Kolavo in my opinion is a very good spine surgeon with many years of experience. I am living proof of his surgical expertise.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 17, 2021

5.0

I'm walking, which is a testament to his expertise as a good spine surgeon.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 11, 2021

5.0

Feel is is good surgeon and knowledgable in his field

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 08, 2021

5.0

He is a complete doctor.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 07, 2021

5.0

Easy to talk to. He explains everything.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 04, 2021

5.0

Great Doctor

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 03, 2021

5.0

He’s honest, professional and very knowledgeable about the function and repair of the spine. He’s helped me in so many ways.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

December 02, 2021

5.0

Very kind, honest and took a lot of time reviewing my previous scans. Answered all of my questions and was as gentle as possible during my exam. Dr was willing to explain the issues to me and my husband and answered all my questions regarding the testing that is needed. Very knowledgeable and not willing to jump to conclusions.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

November 30, 2021

5.0

Dr. Kolavo listens and he is a pro.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

November 21, 2021

5.0

He's a straight shooter I asked him to tell me that he did and I want to know what they're going to do how they're going to do it and how long it will take to recover and all that was answer and I appreciate that kind of professionalism thank you again

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

November 18, 2021

5.0

Experienced , Interested in me

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

November 17, 2021

5.0

The best

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

November 16, 2021

5.0

Exceptional doctor and visit!

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

November 12, 2021

5.0

Excellent patient care

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

November 11, 2021

5.0

Dr. Kolavo is a very skilled, experienced, kind and caring surgeon who doesn't rush things.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

October 31, 2021

5.0

So caring and takes time to listen

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

October 26, 2021

5.0

Great doctor

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

October 22, 2021

5.0

He is kind and attentive.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

October 22, 2021

5.0

Excellent explanation of my injury and next steps

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

October 20, 2021

5.0

Kind, full assessment

Was this helpful? Yes (1) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

October 13, 2021

5.0

Very knowledgeable and caring.

Was this helpful? Yes (0) No (0)

Thanks for your feedback!

Disclosures

Industry Relationships

Ownership or Investment Interests

Faculty member had an ownership or investment interest in the following companies

  • Nanovis

Service on Board of Directors

Faculty member served in a fiduciary capacity, such as a board member/director, officer, or trustee, for the following companies or other entities

  • Nanovis

External Professional Relationships

Pharmaceutical, device, and biotechnology companies frequently collaborate with basic scientists and physicians within an academic medical center to help advance science and improve patient care. These relationships are important in achieving scientific breakthroughs and in establishing the effectiveness and safety of promising new therapies. In order to assure objectivity in clinical research and patient care, the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine (Feinberg), Northwestern Memorial HealthCare, Children's Hospital of Chicago Medical Center, and the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab have adopted integrity policies that require research and clinical faculty (in full-time, part-time, and unpaid/voluntary categories) to report compensated and uncompensated external industry relationships. Patients are encouraged to discuss these disclosures with their physician as well as to inquire as to how these relationships are overseen by Feinberg. To learn more about our Disclosure and Professional Integrity Policy, and the conflict of interest policies of our joint affiliate survey partners, please go to our Office for Regulatory Affairs Policies page.