Dr. Douglas E. Merkel

Anonymous 

on Healthgrades

2 months ago

I saw Dr. Merkel in 1996 when I sought a second opinion. I was 32 years old at the time and had hormone receptor positive cancer stage one. My first oncologist recommended chemotherapy in addition to the lumpectomy and radiation. Dr. Merkel recommended that I go with taking an oral medication for 5 years (a selective estrogen receptor modulator) in addition to the lumpectomy and radiation. That was the appropriate course of treatment for my tumor type. It definitely spared my body the taxing side effects of chemotherapy. I a... read more

Adrienne 

on Healthgrades

a year ago

Dr. Merkel has been my breast cancer oncologist for 4 years now. I feel very confident in his care. He is knowledgeable, caring, patient, understanding patient fears, up to date on research and experienced. My first, hopefully my last, experience with cancer treatment and happy with the continuous followups every 3 months. Would not want any other doctor. The staff at Kellogg at Glenbrook and Evanston are professional and kind. He personally responds to North Shore connect messages within 24 hours. Also lets you know test re... read more

14yr survivor 

on Healthgrades

a year ago

A voice of reason and confidence. Trusting and kind. Takes the time to answer all your questions. Since his expertise and experience speaks for itself, I just trusted his guidance and took his advise. If you are looking for experienced guidance on your journey, trust in him. 

Kathy Coffman 

on Healthgrades

6 years ago

Dr. Merkel treated my cancer over almost 30 years ago. Since that time I have seen both of our children graduate from high school and college, I’ve danced at my daughter’s wedding and experienced the joy of holding two grandchildren in my arms. Dr. Merkel is highly intelligent, experienced, trustworthy and exudes kindness. 

Atomic blonde 

on Healthgrades

6 years ago

I met three oncologists in spring 2018 and chose Dr. Merkel because of his listening skills and calm, wise manner. He is open to questions- even about emerging therapies and whether they would apply to me. He never said ‘trust me’ to shut down my concerns. He explains the why & how, and has given me articles to read when I’m struggling to integrate the realities. Merkel is also tall and lanky, and much cuter than that picture. ; ) I recommend him whole heartedly. 

Anonymous 

on Healthgrades

9 years ago

In 2011 I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer and was referred by a good friend to Dr. Merkel at North Shore hospital. I couldn't be happier with the care I received. Dr. Merkel is extremely smart, caring, and humble. 

SuzCRNP 

on Healthgrades

9 years ago

I am an OB-Gyn nurse practitioner who is dealing with a local recurrence of breast cancer. As someone who has been educated and worked in Ivy League east coast medical centers as a healthcare provider I can tell you Dr. Merkel is an expert in every aspect of current treatment. He is brilliant, accessible and compassionate. When my recent biopsy came back with a recurrence he called me as soon as he got the result. I know in my heart he wants me to get better. 

Anonymous 

on Healthgrades

9 years ago

There are not enough words to express the confidence that I have in Dr. Merkel. He and his Higland Park staff were absolute angels as I was going through treatment. Dr Merkel listens, provides honest feedback / answers and has a way of relaying information, that is not always easy to hear as a patient, in a calming manner. I have absolute faith and trust in his experience and expertise. I can't imagine having gone through this with any other Doctor. 

ABP 

on Healthgrades

9 years ago

This Doctor has the worst communication skills. He has no Empathy! If you want to LIVE do not go to this Doctor. He does not keep up with the latest and greatest in medicine and treatments.