background
background
Dr. John Belzer, MD

Dr. John Belzer, MD

Orthopedic Surgery*
35+ years of experience

Dr. John Belzer, MD is an orthopedic surgeon in San Francisco, CA and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Belzer has extensive experience in Shoulder & Upper Arm Surgery and Knee & Lower Limb Surgery. He graduated from Yale School of Medicine in 1988. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Novato Community Hospital and CPMC Mission Bernal Campus & Orthopedic Institute. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

4.5 Star Rating
Based on 49 reviews 4.5 Star Rating (49 reviews)

Practice

3838 California St Rm 715 San Francisco, CA 94118
Telehealth available

Make an Appointment

Experience Check

Search for experience in a specific area

Dr. Belzer's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Belzer

4.5
49 ratings, 40 with a written review
5 star
86%
86%
4 star
2%
2%
3 star
0%
0%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
12%
12%

Your trust is our top concern.

We strive to keep reviews honest, trustworthy, and fair.

Doctors can not pay for good reviews, nor can they pay to have negative reviews removed.

We monitor all reviews to ensure they comply with our guidelines and don’t include personal information, profanity, libel, defamation, harassment, obscenity or fraud.

Any reviews that are deemed fraudulent or violate our guidelines will be removed immediately.

All reviews are confirmed and audited before publication, and community members have the ability to flag inappropriate content for further review by our team.

Superb Clinician
I was impressed by both his thoroughness and confidence in our initial exam. He clearly understands the dynamics and anatomy of shoulder problems and inspires confidence.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 23, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
X-Rays taken and explained to us and scheduled me for CAT scans to see more accurate diagnosis.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 23, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Very experienced, precise surgeon who listens to your feedback and answers questions fully. Excellent results. Kind.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 22, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Wonderful doctor!
Very attentive, thorough approach and soothing and calming manner. Thank you.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 22, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Dr Belzer takes care of our family and friends!
I like Dr Belzer’s approach to explain symptoms in sports terms. He did a great job with my total knee surgery and my husbands shoulder surgery and recently my shoulder issues. We are very grateful for his care. Thank you, Terry and Jim Nevin
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Terry and Jim Nevin – Apr 05, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Excellent, Thorough, compassionate
I recently had a ski injury involving my right knee. The MRI showed multiple serious issues. Dr Belzer took time to explain each detail while, pointing out the images on the MRI. He was very honest and practical about the choices I have for treatment. Currently, I am able to use my knee, but will ultimately require a total knee replacement surgery. Dr Belzer’s bedside manner is exceptionally compassionate and supportive. There is no doubt I will choose him as my surgeon when the time comes!P.S. I used to be a critical care nurse and have worked with many surgeons professionally. I was very impressed, on multiple levels, with Dr Belzer.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Sandra Schlemm – Mar 26, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Root Meniscus Tear
I saw Dr Belzer to get a 2nd opinion, initially. He reviewed my MRI personally and pointed out additional damage that hadn’t been highlighted before. He explained my diagnosis and options in laymen’s terms which provided direction. He did a great job of reinforcing the concept of functionality. After passage of time and additional injury, I saw Dr Belzer again and plan to get a knee replacement.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Root Meniscus Tear – Mar 04, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Quad Tendon Repair & Followup
The doctor was attentive, listened to my concerns, provided explanations and reassurance for my post-op progress
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Appointment was rushed
Helpful
Jan 11, 2025
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Very good doctor
He did my knee surgery two years ago. He did a very good job.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Gordon Fong – Dec 24, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Belzer is condescending and arrogant. Don’t expect
He gave me a lecture. Never connected with what my aim was. Probably a great surgeon but mostly filled with his ego.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
Helpful
Dec 13, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Awesome new knee
Dr Belzer replaced my left knee 4 months ago and it has been a game changer! I breezed through PT, followed by international travel and vigourous farm work, and am preparing for replacement of the right knee next month. Dr Belzer and his team are skilled, attentive, compassionate and no-nonsense.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Oct 22, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Osteoarthritis on both knees
What really stood out during my visit with Dr Belzer is his ability to understand my problems and how he addressed them. He made me very comfortable and clearly explained my case and the perfect approach to treat it.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Emad Mansour – Oct 22, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
As good as it gets
As a physician I believe I am a good judge of a provider’s care. Dr Belzer is truly outstanding. He has cared for my wife in the past. When I needed care he was my choice. He was very thorough in his assessment and care.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Sep 05, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Great surgeon with a great result!
I am so pleased with Dr. Belzer and the results from my shoulder replacement. In four months, I seem to have full use of my shoulder. Dr. Belzer was a wonderful surgeon and caregiver. He took time to listen and answer my questions and provide me with the follow up PT needed. I am so appreciative!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Charlotte K. – Jun 04, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Dr. Belzer is Wonderful!
Dr. Belzer is very kind, patient, and listens and responds to any questions. I feel safe in his care! He is one of the top Specialists in his field and my shoulders are in great hands, I totally trust him to do my next Rotator Cuff surgery. His staff is very kind and respond quickly to calls! I would highly recommend Dr. Belzer, he is an excellent doctor!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Eleni A. – May 07, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Excellent
Dr. Belzer and his expert team have repaired both of my shoulders, enabling me to live a pain free life and continue surfing on the North Shore.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Apr 12, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Dr Belzer is outstanding!
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 13, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Excellent physician and consultation
Very informative and helpful.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 07, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Honestly helpful
As someone else said, Dr. Belzer is a straight shooter and gives you an honest opinion, which I very much appreciate.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 06, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?
Two surgeries two success
Straight shooter, go to the point…. I felt with DR. Belzer I always knew where I stand. Perfect info.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Feb 28, 2024
×Post a ResponseAre you Dr. Belzer?

Leave a review

How was your experience with Dr. Belzer?

About Me

biography

Dr. John Belzer, MD is an orthopedic surgeon in San Francisco, CA and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Belzer has extensive experience in Shoulder & Upper Arm Surgery and Knee & Lower Limb Surgery. He graduated from Yale...read more
  • Orthopedic Surgery

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • So Calif Orth Inst

    Fellowship Hospital, 1994
  • University Of California-san Francisco

    Internship Hospital, 1989
  • Yale School Of Medicine

    Medical School, 1988
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery®
Orthopedic Surgery
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.
  • California Orthopaedic Association, Member

  • English

  • Spanish

Insurance Check

Search for your insurance carrier and choose your plan type

Locations

Practice

California Pacific Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine A Medical Corporat3838 California St Rm 715 San Francisco, CA 94118
1

Practice

Select Physical Therapy-Cal Pacific1099 D St Ste 105 San Rafael, CA 94901
2
Office3838 California St Rm 108 San Francisco, CA 94118
3

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Novato Community Hospital

    180 Rowland Way
    Novato, CA 94945
    Recipient of 11
    hospital awards

    America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Superior clinical outcomes in knee and hip replacement

    America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery Award™ (2025)

    Superior clinical outcomes in knee and hip replacement

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    87%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home
    84%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    6% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • CPMC Van Ness Campus

    1101 Van Ness Ave
    San Francisco, CA 94109
    Recipient of 23
    hospital awards

    America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2025, 2024, 2023)

    Top 5% in the nation for consistently delivering clinical quality

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    86%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    2% higher than the national average

    78%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    2% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Sonoma Valley Hospital

    347 Andrieux St
    Sonoma, CA 95476

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    85%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    3% lower than the national average

    81%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    1% lower than the national average

    View all patient feedback
Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality