John D. Steffens,
MD
Languages Spoken: English
John Steffens, MD practices as a general neurologist with special and active clinical focus on multiple sclerosis, neuromuscular diseases, Parkinson’s disease, and other movement disorders. He is currently reducing his outpatient practice in order to focus on clinical resident education and acute neurology as a neurohospitalist. In addition, Dr. Steffens maintains a part-time private practice in Twin Falls, ID.
Clinical Locations
Imaging and Neurosciences Center
801-585-7575
Specialties
Board Certification and Academic Information
| Academic Departments | Neurology
-
Associate Professor (Clinical) |
| Academic Divisions | Diagnostic and Clinical Neurology |
| Board Certification | American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Neurology) |
Patient Ratings
The Patient Rating score is an average of all responses to care provider related questions on our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survery.
Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.
Likelihood of recommending care provider
5.0/ 5
Care provider spoke using clear language
4.9/ 5
Care provider's explanation of condition/problem
4.9/ 5
My confidence in care provider
4.9/ 5
Care provider's effort to include me in decisions
4.9/ 5
Wait time at clinic
4.7/ 5
Time care provider spent with me
4.9/ 5
Care provider's concern for questions & worries
4.9/ 5
Care provider's friendliness and courtesy
4.9/ 5
Patient Comments
Patient comments are gathered from our Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survery and displayed in their entirety. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.
UofU Patient
June 23, 2017
dr. Steffens is a an amazing, brilliant and caring physician. He takes time to sit and listen and I feel as if I me and my problems are the pure focus of our visit. I was recently in the problem in the hospital and he was he made sure that I came in to see him a week after I was just charged. We discussed at length what led up to the hospital position how the hospitalization went and what the future plans were.
UofU Patient
June 12, 2017
Dr. Steffens gives me all the time I need to answer every question on my long list. He always assures me never to give up. At times, that is not always easy.
UofU Patient
May 13, 2017
Dr. Steffens is one of the most friendly, respectful, helpful, bright, and caring doctors I've taken my Mom to. I can tell he makes my Mom feel totally comfortable and liked. She seems to really appreciate the way he treats her. And I felt like he explained things so clearly to us. He seems very knowledgeable and experienced. One of the best Doctors around!
UofU Patient
May 12, 2017
Dr. Steffens took a lot of time with _____ and was good to answer our questions.
UofU Patient
April 21, 2017
excellent!! I'm so grateful for him and him wanting to solve my difficult case!
UofU Patient
April 18, 2017
I am very confident that Dr Steffens will always give me excellent medical advice tailored to my needs. I have relied on him more than any physician I have ever seen for my health.
UofU Patient
February 15, 2017
Dr. Steffens is absolutely the best. so easy to talk to and he listens to me, now if he would just invent a magic pill to get rid of my migraines. Truly he is why I keep coming back.
UofU Patient
December 18, 2016
Dr. Steffens always treats me as if I were his only patient that day. He is focused on me and answers all my questions in a thorough and clear way.
UofU Patient
December 17, 2016
Dr Stephans is the absolute BEST doctor.
UofU Patient
December 17, 2016
Dr Steffens did not rush thru my appointment. I had some new symptoms and he took the extra time to check them out, explain what they were and lay out a game plan. I left the appointment feeling confident that I was taking the best course of action and grateful that I had a doctor who cared enough to take the time to work with me
UofU Patient
December 15, 2016
I appreciate Dr. Steffens taking the opportunity teaching the next generation in his field.
UofU Patient
December 12, 2016
I recommend Dr. Steffens to anyone who has migraines. He is the absolute best - always so friendly and understanding, and also very caring. I appreciate his honesty in helping me plan for future care and what is in my best interest.
UofU Patient
December 10, 2016
Dr Steffens is an incredible doctor and so thorough. the office staff was cheery and talkative and very kind great experience
UofU Patient
November 19, 2016
Dr. Steffens is truly an amazing care provider. I have never felt as though my questions or concerns go unaddressed. U of U healthcare should feel honored to have such a kind, caring, knowledgeable, and overall excellent physician working for them.
UofU Patient
November 17, 2016
I love Dr Steffens
UofU Patient
September 30, 2016
Dr. Steffens is the best .
UofU Patient
September 30, 2016
Dr. Steffens is an amazing doctor.
UofU Patient
September 05, 2016
Dr. John STEFFENS is professional, kind and compassionate.
UofU Patient
September 04, 2016
He anticipates new problems that I should expect but also does not over burden me with information about my relentless disease progression. He certainly is skilled at giving me sufficient information but not an oppressive amount.
UofU Patient
September 01, 2016
Dr. Steffens is the best doctor I have seen within and without the U OF U healthcare system.
UofU Patient
July 14, 2016
DR. STEPHENS IS PERSONABLE,TRUSTWORTHY,CONFIDENT,CARING,EDUCATED, MAKES ME FEEL TOTALY CONFIDENT IN HIS CARE. I WOULDN'T GO TO ANYONE ELSE!! MANY THANKS TO DR. STEPHENS!!!
UofU Patient
June 17, 2016
Dr. Steffens is a very kind and caring physician. He truly listens to your concerns and answers you honestly. He works closely with you to meet your requests and desired outcomes.
UofU Patient
May 31, 2016
Dr Steffens is excellent at communicating my progress, areas that may need to be addressed, and exactly what I do to check my progress and reach a goal he helps set for me. I leave the clinic with a full understanding of the most recent testing and what I need to do to achieve my goal. He looks at all the recent testing whether he ordered the testing or another physian order it and explains it it a way that it is fully understood.
UofU Patient
May 27, 2016
These questions don't adequately describe Dr. Steffens. He is the most knowledgable, sincere, helpful, caring, and all around most wonderful doctor. I would be completely lost without he expertise in treating my disease! Not only doesn't Dr. Steffens have answers related to the disease of MS he treats me as human fighting each day of my life to have the best quality of life that modern medicine can offer! I am forever changed because of my association with Dr. John D. Steffens
UofU Patient
May 06, 2016
Dr. Steffens has been treating my MS for many years. I know that regardless of how I feel when I walk in, I am going to walk out feeling a bit better. Here is an example of what I mean. On this visit I came in with a list of jumbled symptoms and when I looked up he said " I am listening". Thank you Dr. Steffens for taking the time and patience to parse out what the problems seem to be.
UofU Patient
May 04, 2016
John Steffens MD is extraordinary physician in his professionalism and compassion.
UofU Patient
May 02, 2016
Dr. Steffens is a fantastic Dr. and I feel so fortunate to still be one of his patients.
UofU Patient
May 02, 2016
John is a wonderful caring physician. He has enabled me to work an additional 8 years despite my disease. I have confidence in him as a doctor and appreciate his expertise, even when is tells me things that are hard to hear.
UofU Patient
May 02, 2016
good (only 2 choices given, good or bad)
UofU Patient
March 29, 2016
I trust my doctor with my life. He is very straight to the point and very knowledgeable.
UofU Patient
March 18, 2016
This provider found at least 3 things on my MRI that were not even mentioned and could have some impact on my care. He answered all of the questions that I had and made me feel at ease
UofU Patient
March 07, 2016
The best experience I have ever had. All of the staff were fantastic!!! You are lucky to have them working for your clinic
UofU Patient
March 05, 2016
There are not enough good words to say about Dr. Steffens. His concern for his patients is above the norm
UofU Patient
January 06, 2016
Dr. Steffens is both professional and personable. We appreciate his expertise.
UofU Patient
October 21, 2015
Very good doctor.
UofU Patient
October 21, 2015
Dr. Steffens is an excellent physician--thorough, good listener, extremely knowleable, personable and makes sure you clearly understand the steps you need to take to improve.
UofU Patient
October 20, 2015
great doctor very nice and concerned
UofU Patient
September 29, 2015
Dr. Steffens is a caring man. His compassion is very much appreciated by me as a patient.
UofU Patient
September 02, 2015
I feel so fortunate to be one of Dr. Steffens patients.
UofU Patient
September 01, 2015
Dr. Steffens is the best doctor I have ever seen. He truly cares about his patients and takes the time to answer questions. Thanks!
UofU Patient
September 01, 2015
He answers my questions and includes me in the decisions made for future treatments. I feel he cares about his patients and is an advocate for them when the insurance doesn't want to pay. He is always available come what may.
UofU Patient
August 04, 2015
Dr. Steffens walked in the room with a firm handshake and a smile. He seemed genuinely concerned from the second I met him. I felt more like a friend than a patient. He explained everything in great detail and took the time to listen to a detailed history before coming up with his diagnosis and treatment plan. He let me ask questions and I was fully confident in his answers. I would recommend him to anyone who needs to see a neurologist. An exceptionally nice and knowledgable doctor.
UofU Patient
July 13, 2015
Dr. Steffens is the BEST
UofU Patient
May 11, 2015
Sometimes when you have a chronic disease you need a pep talk more than anything else to help lift you. For me Dr. Steffens excels in listening and helping me get back on track
UofU Patient
May 09, 2015
I don't believe he is taking new patients. He is very special more like a good friend.
UofU Patient
May 05, 2015
Dr. Steffens is not only a professional, a great doctor, he is a caring human being. Takes his time to listen and helps me to cope with a difficult time in my life. All attributes, often not found in the medical community. I appreciate him.
UofU Patient
April 05, 2015
Dr. Steffens, Waited an extra 45 minutes for me since the MRI was late taking me. He gave up his lunch time to spend the time with me. He did not rush at all and answered all my question and concerns.
UofU Patient
March 01, 2015
Dr. Steffans answered questions about the testing. He addressed any questions or concerns so that I clearly knew what was needed to maintain my health. His time and help are deeply appreciated.
UofU Patient
February 24, 2015
Dr Steffens spent a lot of time talking to me and always shows great concern for my health.
UofU Patient
January 12, 2015
Dr. Steffens showed much concern and was very helpful
UofU Patient
January 06, 2015
Dr. Steffens is the best!
UofU Patient
January 02, 2015
I have seen other neurologist and I must say Dr. Steffens is an amazing person. I say person because that is how I feel. I feel like I am speaking with a friend that has a genuine. concern for my health. It helps that he is a walking book of knowledge. The day he leaves medicine is going to be a sad day for me! I don't feel like I have adequatly expressed how amazing he is as physician but to be a great doctor you need to be a good person also!
UofU Patient
December 31, 2014
One could not expect any better care are concern. The care given was outstanding. My son attended and he fully agreed with the forgoing statement.
UofU Patient
November 06, 2014
Dr. Steffens is the best Dr. I have ever had. He always takes the time to answer all of my questions. I know I wouldn't be here today or at least I wouldn't be functioning as well as I am without his care and the care of his staff. I appreciate everything he has done for me. Thank you!!
UofU Patient
October 08, 2014
When I was referred to Dr Steffens many years ago I had already been seen by one other doctor. I felt I was getting worse and I was definitely scared and confused about my diagnosis. On my first visit I will never forget what he said after he examined me: "What are we waiting for?" After that he took the time to carefully explain what was happening, the possibilities and my options. And although he is the one with the game plans he always lets me be the one calling calling the shots. I appreciate his attitude towards patients. Many many thanks!
UofU Patient
October 07, 2014
My husband had the most comprehensive exam that he has ever had. The doctor spent a great deal of time examining, and plans of treatment.
UofU Patient
August 13, 2014
I would go to the ends of the earth to have dr.steffens be my doctor. He has been seeing me fr ms fr 18 yrs. He is incredible caring informative
UofU Patient
August 08, 2014
Dr. Steffens is awesome.
UofU Patient
August 03, 2014
Dr. Steffans has superior "bedside manner"; he does an excellent job of working with me to help me navigate the uncertainty, my options, etc. He shows great respect and patience and this makes all the difference. There is so much material "out there" on PD; the key is to distill it down into a course of action, and Dr. Steffans helps me to do that. I highly recommend him!
UofU Patient
May 11, 2014
Dr. Steffens is a gem. I wish for more physicians like him in all branches of medicine. Also, so far I been very impressed with the med students checking me out as well.
UofU Patient
May 07, 2014
makes patient feel very at ease and comfortable. Always professional and we trust in his care.Listens to our concerns.
UofU Patient
May 06, 2014
Great
UofU Patient
April 17, 2014
Dr. Steffens gives top notch care and I have total confidence in the care and advice he gives me. However, sometimes when I use MyChart for questions I wonder if I am misusing it or if questions asked or answers given are getting lost in translation. I use MyChart because it seems convenient and because to be honest it is too hard to get through to a nurse to ask a question (sorry about that). I know that everyone is busy and that he has many patients to take care of and MyChart is an excellent tool to help take care of them. But sometimes I worry that I am taking up too much of his time with all the emails when a quick phone call would do the trick. Overall, I am grateful for this valuable tool and very grateful for Dr. Steffens and his staff.
UofU Patient
April 07, 2014
Again, Dr. Steffens an excellent physician. He explains the the blood test and other evaluations so that you understand them and helps you set up goals to improve the things you can control. He listens to your questions carefully and gives you clear and thoughtful answers.
UofU Patient
April 01, 2014
very good
UofU Patient
March 03, 2014
Dr. Steffens has always been concerned and helpful. He spends time and helps me find option to my care.
UofU Patient
February 08, 2014
Dr. Steffens is one of the most helpful and concerned doctors I have ever worked worked with in trying to assist me with my problems.
UofU Patient
February 03, 2014
I very much appreciate having Dr. Steffans as my Parkinson's doctor, as he is not only clearly very knowledgeable, he is also very patient in allowing me to explore my options without trying to pressure me into anything. I probably am not close to being the "average patient" in terms of attitude and outlook, and so I appreciate Dr. Steffans ability to understand my philosophy towards my Parkinson's and work with me to find the best option for me.
UofU Patient
January 01, 2014
Dr Steffens is a very good, kind and wenderful dr.
UofU Patient
December 29, 2013
dr. Steffens was sensational as always.
UofU Patient
November 28, 2013
As always Dr Steffens gave me his full attention when he stepped into the room. I appreciate his ability to treat me as a patient but approach me as a person first. Not many doctors know how to do that.
UofU Patient
October 24, 2013
Dr. Steffans does an excellent job and I have confidence in him and his recommendations.
UofU Patient
August 08, 2013
Dr. Stephens has been the key to my ability to tolerate my disease and live with it. He not only has concern for my well-being but makes a conscious effort to change any medication for the side effects. He is educated in all new meds for my disease. I would go to no other doctor if I had the chance. Thank you so much doc.
UofU Patient
August 07, 2013
After caring for me for more than 12 years, Steffens never embarrasses me when i ask repeat questions, particularly about medications. I trust him that he knows my short-term memory is getting gradually shorter, something i try to hide from others. I am thankful that he works beside me to manage PD--he seems to be full of grace and more than all, he cares about me...not just "seems" to care for me, but CARES for me. He is a gentle man and an absolutely superb physician. Too bad the medical world--any world--is not fully stocked with doctors like him. It's my pleasure and honor to be his patient.
UofU Patient
August 06, 2013
I was about to give up. I was seen by two other neurologists and two ophthalmologist (prior Dr.Warner), between the four I was told nothing is wrong and nothing can be done. Dr. Steffens has given me a glimmer of hope. Many physicians should take a close look at the way Dr. Steffens conducts and handles an examination, especially when the diagnosis is one without a cure.
UofU Patient
August 05, 2013
outstanding, could no have been better
UofU Patient
June 27, 2013
Dr. Steffens is the best
UofU Patient
May 06, 2013
Dr. Steffan is amazing. He is always so patient with Dale and we feel that he genuinely cares about him. That's why, in the past, we were willing to drive to Idaho to see him.
UofU Patient
May 04, 2013
I have worked with Dr. Steffens for close to nine years, I trust him and find that he listens to my questions, concerns and ideas. He will research and follow up with me on any new information that I bring. I feel that I am part of the team that is working towards my better health.
UofU Patient
May 03, 2013
Dr. Steffens is the BEST doctor. I always highly recommend him to others.
UofU Patient
May 01, 2013
I really like the way Dr. Steffens handles our appointment time. He knows when to be serious but he also takes the time to get to know me and I think that can be an important assessment tool as well. It also allows me as the patient to get to know him so I can make my own assessment of him as well. Is he a doctor that I can trust and put my faith in? The answers are "yes" and "yes".
UofU Patient
April 04, 2013
my doctor is great, would not change, drive from Idaho.
UofU Patient
March 30, 2013
Dr. Steffens is a very caring compassionate doctor.
UofU Patient
March 07, 2013
Dr. Steffens found a problem that was unforseen to myself and many others. This diagnosis may be life changing for me during this time. I was very impressed with his ability to take my symptoms and find the underlying problem
UofU Patient
January 02, 2013
The Dr was great, but I dont know if I would recommend due to the 3 month out to schedule an appt.
UofU Patient
November 26, 2012
A warm, gentle person, Dr. Steffens is first and foremost an excellent listener. Not only does he include me in my health management, he practically insists on it. Between our last two visits, I unilaterally stopped a drug that made me feel unwell. This drug happens to be a magic bullet for many other patients, and it's one that Steffens likes to prescribe. He agreed with my decision, though he warned me what to watch for. I appreciate that he treats me as a smart-enough patient to help decide what's best for me.
UofU Patient
November 23, 2012
As caregiver I realize that I should keep more detailed records in order to determine the effects of the medications.
UofU Patient
October 09, 2012
Dr. Steffens excels in personal communication and listening. He takes the time to actively listen so I feel that he has done his best to understand my concerns. I have total confidence in him.
UofU Patient
October 08, 2012
Dr. Steffens is wonderful, a real professional. He makes me feel like I am his father instead of a patient. It is very evident that he cares about me and wants me to have the best treatment possible. He is a real expert in his field and he knows how imporant it is to stay current on Parkinson's and give his patients the newest and best treatiment and drugs as possible. He is the best doctor I have ever seen in my 70 years. We are both fortunate to have him as a doctor and as a friend.
UofU Patient
October 08, 2012
It's always a good experience with Dr. Steffens. Even when the results may be discouraging.
UofU Patient
October 01, 2012
Just wish he had some answers, but that has nothing to do with Dr Steffens, I feel that I am in the best hands to help me
UofU Patient
September 25, 2012
Dr. Steffens is the best.
UofU Patient
September 24, 2012
Dr. Steffens has a way of making a person feel comfortable in asking questions and is very specific in answering them. I never leave without knowing what to do and feel I can call him in between appointments, if necessary. That's uncommon, today.
UofU Patient
August 25, 2012
Dr. Steffens, as always, is very consultative, friendly, knowledgeable, and caring. Plenty of time is spent so he can understand the problem. I feel well taken care of him as my physician.
UofU Patient
April 19, 2012
it's all good.
UofU Patient
April 05, 2012
Dr. Steffens always makes me feel like I am the priority when he is in my room. His manner is both professional and friendly. His questions reflect that he is really listening to my concerns.
UofU Patient
March 16, 2012
very nice attitude and thorough
UofU Patient
March 05, 2012
He is great. We appriciate him taking us on.
UofU Patient
February 17, 2012
All the doctors at the clinic are smart, good, talented doctors , but Dr. Steffens has cared for me more than 10 years now so i'm partial to him. I'm glad he's putting hours back in the clinic where he belongs. All my visits to the clinic have been easy-going, nonthreatening, helpful. Never had a bad experience there.
Dr. Steffens is an Idaho native, graduating with a B.S. In Zoology from the University of Idaho; received his medical degree from the University of Washington (as part of the WAMI program), then completed a transitonal year internship at the VAMC in Boise, Idaho. After three years on active duty withe the Marines in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina (and points overseas) he relocated to Salt Lake City, Where he completed his Neurology training in 1997 serving as Chief resident in 1996-97, before completing a Fellowship in Neurophysiology (EMG) in 1998. He has been on Faculty at the University since that time eventually attaining status as Associate Professor (Clinical).
He has been recipient of the Teacher of the Year award from the graduating Neurology residents 6 times, been voted to 'Best Doctors" each year since 2005, and
regularly gives patient education seminars in Parkinson's Disease and Multiple Sclerosis.
His focus is on General Neurology, and runs a busy practice with special clinical focus on multiple sclerosis, neuromuscular diseases, Parkinson’s disease, and other movement disorders. He is currently reducing his outpatient practice in order to focus on clinical resident education and acute neurology as a neurohospitalist. In addition, Dr. Steffens maintains a very busy part-time private practice in Twin Falls, ID.
Academic Locations
Imaging & Neurosciences Center
801-585-7575
Board Certification and Academic Information
| Academic Departments | Neurology
-
Associate Professor (Clinical) |
| Academic Divisions | Diagnostic and Clinical Neurology |
| Board Certification | American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Neurology) |
Education History
| Fellowship | University of Utah School of Medicine Neurophysiology Fellow |
| Chief Resident | University of Utah School of Medicine Neurology Chief Resident |
| Residency | University of Utah School of Medicine Neurology Resident |
| Internship | Veterans Affairs Medical Center Medicine Intern |
| Professional Medical | University of Washington Medicine M.D. |
| Undergraduate | University of Idaho, College of Letters and Science Zoology B.S. |
Publications - Journal Articles
Journal Article
- Shprecher D, Frech T, Chin S, Eskandari R, Steffens J (2008). Progressive multifocal leucoencephalopathy associated with lupus and methotrexate overdose. Lupus, 17(11), 1029-32.
- Shprecher D, Smith SS, Steffens JD, Flanigan K (2008). Clinical and Diagnostic Features of Delayed Hypoxic leukoencephalopathy. Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences.
Case Report
- Majersik JJ, Caravati EM, Steffens JD (2007). Severe neurotoxicity associated with exposure to the solvent 1-bromopropane (n-propyl bromide). Clin Toxicol (Phila), 45(3), 270-6.
- Greenlee JE, Steffens JD, Clawson SA, Hill K, Dalmau J (2002). Anti-Hu antibodies in Merkel cell carcinoma. Ann Neurol, 52(1), 111-5.
Other
- Steffens, JD (2006). Parkinson's Disease Medications. National APDA Newsletter (Winter, 2006). New York: National chapter of the American Parkinson's Disease Association.
Video/Film/CD/Web/Podcast
- Steffens J, Bromberg M (2001). Tick Paralysis. MedLink-Neurobase, Arbor Publishing Corp, 10393 San Diego Mission Road #120, San Diego, CA 92108-2134 [Video].
Poster
- Kareus, SA, Steffens, JD (2008). Choreoathetosis after Cardiopulmonary bypass, Cardiac Arrest and Hypothermia, in an Adult. Poster session presented at 12 International Congress of Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders, Chicago, Il.
- Hills WL, Warner JEA, Katz BJ, Chelune GJ, Foster NL, Steffens J, Thulin P, Chin S, Digre KB (2008). Neuro-Ophthalmic Findings that may Reliably differentiate Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and Parkinson Disease. Poster session presented at NANOS.
- Majersik JJ, Steffens JD, Caravati EM (2004). Chronic Exposure to 1-Bromopropane Associated with Spastic Paraparesis and Distal Neuropathy: A Report of Six Foam Cushion Gluers. Poster session presented at ANA Meeting.
- Greenlee JE, Steffens JD, Clawson SA, Dalmau J (2001). Anti-Hu Antibodies Associated with Paraneoplastic Neuropathy and Encephalopathy in the Setting of Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Poster session presented at ANA Meeting.
- Rose J, Klein J, Steffens J, Foley J, Tsuruda J (2000). Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Normal Appearing White Matter in Patients with Clinically Suspected Multiple Sclerosis. Poster session presented at ANA Meeting.