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Dr. John Bookwalter III, MD

Dr. John Bookwalter III, MD

Neurosurgery*
45+ years of experience

Dr. John Bookwalter III, MD is a neurosurgeon in Brackenridge, PA and has over 45 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in 1976. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as UPMC Passavant-McCandless and UPMC Presbyterian. He is accepting new patients.

4 Star Rating
Based on 40 reviews 4 Star Rating (40 reviews)

Practice

1030 Broadview Blvd Brackenridge, PA 15014

Make an Appointment

(724) 224-8700

Hospital Highlight

Dr. Bookwalter III is affiliated with UPMC Presbyterian Pittsburgh, a highly rated hospital.

Dr. Bookwalter III is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Neurosurgery

The Healthgrades Choice designation helps you understand the most important factors to consider when choosing a healthcare professional. This designation is earned based on four set standards.
Read our methodology

  • Above average experience
  • Good hospital quality
  • Good patient ratings
  • No healthcare sanctions
  • Area of Expertise
    Dr. Bookwalter III specializes in the area of Neurosurgery. • See board certifications
  • Explains Conditions Well
    Patients said this doctor explains conditions well. • See reviews
  • Practices at Top Hospital
    Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ • See hospitals
  • Hospital Satisfaction
    Patients said they were highly satisfied at this doctor's hospital. • See hospitals
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Dr. Bookwalter III's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Bookwalter III

4.0
40 ratings, 17 with a written review
5 star
73%
73%
4 star
3%
3%
3 star
0%
0%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
25%
25%

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Was very thorough. Explained problem and recommended treatment without surgery.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Kevin L Drain – Feb 15, 2021
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I am a nurse and spent 15 years of my career in neuroscience/neurosurgery and I would let Dr. Bookwalter operate on me if I needed surgery.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
Lori RN – Jan 24, 2020
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Dr. William Bookwalter is an outstanding neurosurgeon. He has the skills, knowledge, trustworthiness and humility that makes great doctors. He is very ethical and caring. He has helped me through some very difficult and trying times in my life. Dr. Bookwalter always approached my medical issues cautiously and conservatively when needed. If surgery was needed my wife and I knew that I was in goods hands. To us, he is an outstanding, fair, ethical and compassionate doctor. If you're or freeloader, or a faker Dr. Bookwalter is not for you. He'll see right through you. If you need an outstanding neurosurgeon then you came to the right person.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
May 25, 2019
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He did my husband’s cervical surgery and was the most conscientious and caring doctor I’ve met in my 35 years as a practicing nurse. He not only performed the surgery well but the last results speak for themselves. Highly recommend
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
Theresa in Hollidaysburg, PA – Oct 14, 2018
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Avoid this doctor! If his skills are as lacking as his character is he should retire immediately. He was dismissive and disrespectful to me. He kept repeating that there is nothing wrong with my back except normal age related changes. He actually said "I'll guarantee you that my MRI is worse than yours." I wanted guidance from a physician regarding the best treatment options for me. Instead I got brushed off and insulted. He should be ashamed of himself for treating anyone like this.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Aug 03, 2018
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I would like to give ZERO stars. His bedside manner is a ZERO. His staff is filled with rude and insensitive people. The “doctor” did not properly diagnose me. DO NOT GO HERE.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
8 others found this helpful
Helpful
Ms. M in Natrona Heights – May 26, 2018
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Did not even open the envelope with disc. Thought he was a nice guy. Boy was I wrong! I just took it out of my purse and it was never opened! He must know something bad is going on with my husband neurologically and beating around the bush telling us it is just age. I will never send anyone to him. Try getting in to see a neurologist. It is impossible to get in. I had to beg to see one and still waited. In the meantime my husband is getting worse. Leg weakness and horrible back pain.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
7 others found this helpful
Helpful
May 21, 2018
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Definitely UNLIKELY
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Jennifer Musser in PA – Jan 13, 2018
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I had lived with back pain my whole adult life. It got so bad that I could no longer stand upright. A friend from work previously had back surgery and recommended I see Dr. Bookwalter. It was the best decision I ever made. It'll be 2 years since my surgery in February. I have been pain free from the moment I awoke from surgery. Dr. Bookwalter is the best!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Steve Stalnaker in Mount Pleasant, PA – Oct 23, 2017
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Not having my MRI or X-rays results on display to look at with me and then tell me you had no idea you ordered EMG testing and then never even read them when then were faxed to you a week prior, is in one word "unprofessional "! What a waste of my time! Will never recommend this doctor or GPOA to anyone!! This doctor is not only unprofessional but, also impersonable!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
8 others found this helpful
Helpful
Vandergrift, PA – Oct 06, 2017
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Excellent caring doctor! Would not hesitate to recommend as I don't believe you will find anyone better!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Saxonburg, PA – Mar 29, 2017
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I wish I could give a 5 star review, my life would be terrific. However, back in February 08, Dr Bookwalter performed cervical spine surgery, fusion C6-7. I have been told this was/is a very simple operation. Needless to say, I had to have 2 additional surgeries to try to correct the damage done by the initial surgery. Would you believe, there was a piece of disc remaining lodged against my spinal cord! I am in pain 24/7; nerve damage is awful and next to impossible to get relief. STAY AWAY!!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
9 others found this helpful
Helpful
Cheryl – Mar 28, 2017
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Dr Boolwalter's patience and calm demeanor make you feel comfortable being his patient. I had lower back issues and the Doc did as much as he could to help alleviate he issue. Still have pain but am fully functional! Excellent recommendation.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mike S in Murrysville, PA – Aug 11, 2016
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Recently, Dr. Bookwalter performed a triple posterior cervical foramanotomy on me. I chose him through the recommendation of a friend who had known him personally and professionally for over 20 years. Another doctor wanted to do fusion on me, but Dr. Bookwalter did this minimally invasive surgery that has taken all of my pain totally away! He is easy to talk to, answers all your questions in plain language and is a terrific neurosurgeon! If you fear surgery, like I did, see him. He's the best!!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
9 others found this helpful
Helpful
Art Barnes in Linesville – Aug 06, 2016
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26 years ago Dr. Bookwalter removed a spinal sheath tumor from brachial plexus that had grown into spinal column. Operation had 33% chance of paralysis 33% chance of death and 33% of a good outcome. Outcome was phenomenal! Patient was my deceased husband and because of Dr.Bookwalter my husband got to see his children grow to adulthood and get married. My husband would still be alive today if it wasn't for a different doctors medical error. Thank you Dr. Bookwalter for the extra time given!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Debby in Butler, PA – Jul 20, 2016
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Dr. Bookwalter - simply put, is the BEST. I had a total disk replacement (c6-c7) as outpatient. I was in the recovery room within 2 hours - no neck brace or anything. It has now been 3 weeks - pain is gone and I am doing wonderfully. Dr. B explained everything and I had complete confidence in him. A note on above & beyond - My insurance company initially denied the claim. Dr. B did a peer-to-peer with the insurance company - they then approved the claim. Kudos to Dr. B !!!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Gus Papantonio in Pittsburgh, PA – Apr 09, 2016
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Dr Bookwalter is only the second Dr in my life that takes the time to explain in detail his findings and procedures at no rush
What went well
  • Office environment
  • 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
8 others found this helpful
Helpful
Richard in Everett, PA – Dec 19, 2015
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Leave a review

How was your experience with Dr. Bookwalter III?

Know Before You Go

About Me

care philosophy

At Pittsburgh Spines the accolades we care most about are from our patients themselves:

"Dr. Bookwalter performed a double hemi laminectomy discotomy and I had great results. No problems for 5 years but recently I was getting back...read more

biography

Dr. William Bookwalter is the principle surgeon and founder of Pittsburgh Spines. His is board certified in Neurological Surgery from the American Board of Neurological Surgery. With over 20 years of experience his professional resume is distinguished...read more

  • Neurosurgery

  • Orthopedic Spine Surgery

  • Minimally Invasive Neurological Spine 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.

  • University Of Pittsburgh Medical Center

    Residency Hospital, 1984

  • University Of Michigan / Ann Arbor

    Residency Hospital, 1978

  • Iu Health Methodist

    Internship Hospital, 1977

  • Methodist Hospital Of Indiana

    Internship Hospital, 1977

  • Loyola University Chicago Stritch School Of Medicine

    Medical School, 1976

  • Butler University

    Undergraduate School, 1973

  • Wabash College

    Undergraduate School, 1971
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Neurological Surgery®
- 
Neurosurgery
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.

Healthgrades receives board action history for physicians and physician assistants. The information displayed here is sourced from independent information providers, such as state board websites, and may not be the most up-to-date information. Healthgrades makes no representations with respect to the accuracy of any information provided here and assumes no responsibility or liability for such information.

Learn more about medical license public record check

Dr. Bookwalter III is a Healthgrades Choice provider in Neurosurgery

    Read our methodology

    Focus on Agitation in Alzheimer's Disease

    Locations

    Practice

    Office1030 Broadview Blvd Brackenridge, PA 15014
    1

    Affiliated Hospitals

    • UPMC Presbyterian

      200 Lothrop St
      Pittsburgh, PA 15213
      Recipient of 9
      hospital awards

      Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ (2024, 2023, 2022)

      Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

      View all awards

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

      90%
      Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

      6% higher than the national average

      82%
      Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

      7% higher than the national average

      View all patient feedback

    • UPMC St. Margaret

      815 Freeport Rd
      Pittsburgh, PA 15215
      Recipient of 12
      hospital awards

      Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2025, 2023)

      Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

      Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ (2024)

      Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

      View all awards

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

      90%
      Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

      6% higher than the national average

      82%
      Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

      7% higher than the national average

      View all patient feedback

    • UPMC Passavant-McCandless

      9100 Babcock Blvd
      Pittsburgh, PA 15237
      Recipient of 3
      hospital awards

      Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ (2024, 2023, 2022)

      Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

      View all awards

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

      89%
      Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

      5% higher than the national average

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

      6% higher than the national average

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