
Languages Spoken: English
Dr. Vargo's clinical practice involves basic general surgery, including gallbladder and hernia surgery. He utilizes basic and advanced techniques in performing these procedures, including minimally invasive surgery/laparoscopy and robotic surgery.
In addition, Dr. Vargo has a specialty practice in complex abdominal wall surgery, including large incisional/ventral hernias, parastomal hernias, and fistulas to the abdominal wall. He has performed more than 500 complex abdominal wall reconstructions and is considered one of the experts in this field. He is currently working to advance the techniques of robotic surgery as they apply to complex abdominal reconstruction.
Clinical Locations
General Surgery, Area E
801-587-7963
Board Certification and Academic Information
Academic Departments | Surgery
-
Professor (Clinical) |
Academic Divisions | General Surgery |
Patient Rating
The Patient Rating score is an average of all responses to care provider related questions on our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey.
Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.
Likelihood of recommending care provider
4.8/ 5

Care provider's explanation of condition/problem
4.8/ 5

Care provider's effort to include me in decisions
4.8/ 5

Wait time at clinic
4.4/ 5

Care provider's concern for questions & worries
4.8/ 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
October 05, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
explained thoroughly what was going on with my issues and options I have for correcting my issue.
UofU Patient
September 08, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
just not enough info it was a very very short visit. not so rushed
UofU Patient
August 19, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
Dr. Vargo was very thorough in his explanation of the problem and his recommendations for treatment. all of my questions were answered in a complete, patient manner.
UofU Patient
July 13, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
I felt like I got all my questions answered and felt no pressure to have the surgery.
UofU Patient
June 30, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
listened to me, explained my options and treatment. I felt like they were taking time to hear me and not rush back out the door.
UofU Patient
May 13, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
I feel Dr Vargo is very knowledgeable and experienced in the procedure I need.
UofU Patient
March 06, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
Dr Vargo is extremely competent and explained everything very well.
UofU Patient
February 17, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
I cant say enough about Dr Vargo. He is extremely caring and informative!
UofU Patient
January 12, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
negative I left the appointment without any information as to what was my health problem.
UofU Patient
January 01, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
Dr. Vargos was very good. he went thru every concern and explained why surgery was not' the answer at this time.
UofU Patient
January 01, 2020
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
Dr Vargo showed genuine concern for my situation and treatment options.
UofU Patient
December 02, 2019
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
great
UofU Patient
November 09, 2019
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
I felt that he was confident and knew what he was doing. He was kind and made me feel comfortable.
UofU Patient
September 16, 2019
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
Doctor Vargo in my mind is the best surgeon you could get. He tells you straight up and goes into detail of how he will preform the surgery to get you back to a normal life. Doctor Vargo knows what he is doing and cares about his performance and capabilities as a surgeon
UofU Patient
June 29, 2019
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
I have total confidence in Dr. Vargo
UofU Patient
June 24, 2019
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
dr vargo is very efficient and clearly knows his stuff. he instantly puts you at ease with his knowledge and confidence and ability to answer questions about the surgery. he is a very good provider.
UofU Patient
March 10, 2019
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
I had A very good experience at the U of U Hospital.
UofU Patient
January 15, 2019
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
Dr. Vargo was thorugh in his explanation of my hernia condition. Showed on the CTScan exactly where the hernia was located, and took all the time necessary to make sure I understood what I was looking at, and then went beyond to explain how it related to an ongoing issue I have had since a previous surgery 18 months ago. He was caring and compassionate, and has a good sense of humor. His intern was also very detailed in his questions and relating my concerns.
UofU Patient
December 11, 2018
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
excellent
UofU Patient
December 06, 2018
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
Dr.Wargo. what's great However follow up is very bad I still don't have the results for my ultrasonic so I am mad
UofU Patient
September 29, 2018
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
I was very impressed with the knowledge of Dr. Vargo and his interest in my problem.
UofU Patient
August 24, 2018
UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS
This is the first time I met with Dr. Vargo. I was 100% happy with him. He was professional and personable. Thank you Dr. Vargo!
UofU Patient
June 29, 2018
good experience
UofU Patient
May 14, 2018
Dr Vargo was very good at answering my question and describing in detail also using drawings to get his point across very good Surgeon he cares and he does not leave you in the dark
UofU Patient
March 14, 2018
I am in good hands with Dr Vargo. He knew all about my situation and was very willing to work with me.
UofU Patient
January 26, 2018
Excellent explaination the procedure that I need. Doctor made me feel very confident of the surgery that I need.
UofU Patient
January 01, 2018
Dr Vargo and his PA both listened to my concerns and understood my health problems
UofU Patient
July 24, 2017
Dr. Vargo came with a high recommendation from my medical oncologist, so I was expecting him to be great . . . I wasn't disappointed! This consult put my mind at ease and allowed me to move ahead to schedule the surgery. I wish I didn't need it, but at least I'm not concerned about it now.
UofU Patient
July 18, 2017
Dr. Vargo and his in house doctors have been a blessing. Helped solve an issue that has been bothering me for 3 years with the most knowledge, treatment plan and kindness I have seen in a medical office.
UofU Patient
July 07, 2017
I was seen first by Dr Vargo's assistant who was very patient and went over my questions and exam with me
UofU Patient
May 13, 2017
I got sick of waiting and I wanted to leave
UofU Patient
April 25, 2017
Dr Vargo is wonderful. Love him:)
UofU Patient
April 04, 2017
Dr Vargo and his staff were awesome
UofU Patient
March 27, 2017
from the first visit, through surgery and post op visit, we really appreciated that we were given time to remember all our questions and not once felt rushed. this is so different from previous experiences with other doctors and facilities, it totally changed how comfortable we were going through this very complicated situation.
UofU Patient
March 13, 2017
outstanding overall
UofU Patient
March 06, 2017
Dr. Vargo was very good in explaining to me about my problem and showing and explaining to me about my CT Scan. Helped me understand what was going on.
UofU Patient
February 26, 2017
I was impressed with the doctor. I can tell he is at the top of his game
UofU Patient
December 19, 2016
Dr. Vargo and Dr. Slade were very nice, knowledgeable, and made me comfortable and confident in them about my upcoming surgery. They showed me the scan and where the area is that needs surgery. They made me feel like I understood exactly how this issue happened and what will happen during the surgery. Thank you!!
UofU Patient
December 13, 2016
very impressed with Dr. Vargo
UofU Patient
October 28, 2016
I trust Dr Vargo completely, I am so glad I was referred to him, I praise him and his team often!
UofU Patient
September 07, 2016
Dr Vargo is great:)
UofU Patient
August 01, 2016
Dr Vargo- has not been the best at helping me with what to look forward to or any guidance at all. i usually leave his office very upset and frustrated.
UofU Patient
July 18, 2016
I'm taking ideas from your practice and trying to include it in mine.
UofU Patient
July 01, 2016
I have had Dr Vargo's excellent surgical knowledge and skills work on me before with a very tricky KY situation and surgery. I recommend him all of the time and would not want another surgeon.
UofU Patient
April 15, 2016
I felt trust in Dr Vargo, he explained what the surgery would be like, time in hospital, care at home, etc. He left me with a feeling of confidence. I am very thankful that I connected with him as my doctor. Thank you Dr Vargo.
UofU Patient
April 11, 2016
Excellent visit with Dr. Vargo. Very impressed with his explanations.
UofU Patient
April 05, 2016
felt well taken care of
UofU Patient
March 01, 2016
I felt very comfortable about the time the Doctor allowed us to understand what would be happening and answering our questions.
UofU Patient
February 29, 2016
My only concern is that while Dr. Vargo was very knowledgable and friendly at this appointment, I was disappointed that he didn't bother to see me after surgery or come to see me when I was admitted to the hospital when I developed a complication after surgery. It would have been nice to at least have a phone call letting me know how things went and about my complication rather than having residents try to address my concerns.
UofU Patient
January 27, 2016
Dr. Vargo was very helpful and friendly. He took time to answer all my questions and concerns. He explained my procedure very well and really took the time to make sure I felt comfortable with it. Would definitely recommend this doctor.
UofU Patient
January 11, 2016
Dr. Vargo was prompt, professional and exhibited excellent bedside manner. He answered my questions and provided a very thorough description of the procedure I was going to have.
UofU Patient
November 27, 2015
Dr. Vargo demonstrated his real concern by asking that I phone the office in a few days to let him know how I was doing.
UofU Patient
November 16, 2015
Dr. Vargo spent time to explain the nature of the hernia repair surgery that I had.
UofU Patient
October 12, 2015
This was my first encounter with Dr. Vargo and I found him very friendly and provided great explanations about hernia and treatment. Nathan, his resident was also friendly and provided great explanations.
UofU Patient
September 08, 2015
Waited for Dr. Vargo in waiting room for over 45 min. This was a post-op check and visit from Dr. should have only taken 5 min. I ended up leaving without seeing Dr. Vargo due to the length of wait and disrespect for my time.
UofU Patient
August 03, 2015
DR. VARGO MADE ME FILL REALY COMFERTABLE.
UofU Patient
July 24, 2015
This care provider was recommended by another care provider who told me he is the best at what he does.
UofU Patient
May 23, 2015
Dr. Vargo is great
UofU Patient
March 30, 2015
Very Good
UofU Patient
February 16, 2015
I would recommend the Doctor because I feel he is very capable but would caution them they cannot expect timely care.
UofU Patient
February 03, 2015
Dr. Vargo has wonderful patient interaction, though when it came to giving me reasons or solutions for the pain I am feeling I did not get any. I am coming back to have a CT scan next week but I was never told what that may, or may not diagnose. I am interested to know what may have caused my pain and what I can be doing to make it better. Waiting two weeks to see him again causes me anxiety about my pain.
UofU Patient
December 01, 2014
Very compassionate and kind provider given the diagnosis of malignancy. I would definitely recommend Dr. Vargo to anyone having the need of a General Surgeon.
UofU Patient
October 27, 2014
My husband has had surgery performed by Dr. Vargo with a beautiful scar less result. He is the first name people mention when someone needs a General Surgeon.
UofU Patient
September 24, 2014
Showed a great deal of care and compassion.
UofU Patient
August 04, 2014
Care provider needed results from a diagnostic test before making a reasonable evaluation.
UofU Patient
June 17, 2014
I was extremely comfortable with Dr. Vargo - all the good things we had heard about him were true!
UofU Patient
June 17, 2014
yes it was great and yes I would tell my friends.
UofU Patient
May 28, 2014
I received a surgery from Dr Vargo on May 9th however he said he would call me to let me know how things went and never called. Then on my follow up visit he was out of town and had someone at the last minute fill in for him that didnt know anything about my case and all they did was pull up the post op note and read it. Also Dr. Vargo ordered an L Spine MRI and follow up on that was completely absent.
UofU Patient
April 21, 2014
My experience was exceptional and I would recommend your facility to anyone needing treatment
UofU Patient
March 16, 2014
He was excellent. Good communicator, empathetic, and kind. Prompt response to my concerns.
UofU Patient
February 09, 2014
Dr Vargo was friendly, professional and made me feel confident regarding upcoming surgery. I heard nothing but wonderful reports on his skill, and how I was lucky to have him for my surgeon. I totally agree
UofU Patient
January 03, 2014
Not one of the doctors who did the surgery, didn't really know much about my case, didn't explain any continuing restrictions, seemed only mildly interested in my case.
UofU Patient
January 02, 2014
It would have been a little better if the care provider would have know more about my surgery or used the computer in the room to find more information to answer my questions instead of leaving the room to find information.
UofU Patient
December 29, 2013
Both Dr. Vargo and the post-doc fellow spent quite a bit of time making sure I understood what can be known of causes of the condition and the range of outcomes from surgery. I appreciated that he was realistic about expectations without being discouraging.
UofU Patient
December 11, 2013
As usual, Dr Vargo was very professional and friendly. I enjoy my interactions with him and feel as though he genuinely cares about my well-being.
UofU Patient
October 21, 2013
I was very impressed with his gentle and caring mannerisms in the exam, his explanations of my condition and the complications involved, though extremely challenging are not impossible. I was impressed with the ease of including my husband in on the visit by speaker phone as he clearly laid out the plan of action and answered the few extra questions I had.
UofU Patient
October 21, 2013
Dr. Vargo gave very very good care when NO other doctor would even try to treat my problems. I have every confidence in his ability and care he gave me.
UofU Patient
September 30, 2013
I really like Dr. Vargo - he is professional, courteous, and shows genuine concern for his patients and their needs.
UofU Patient
September 09, 2013
Really pleased with Dr. Vargo's referral to another physician and the immediate follow up by the referred physician
UofU Patient
September 09, 2013
the care provider seemed rushed. when he was through talking he stood by the door while I finished asking questions.
UofU Patient
August 07, 2013
I was so impressed with the Resident/Intern doctor. He didn't seem to be rushed and gave me a very thorough examination before making any recommendations. He truly seemed concerned about my situation and took the time to listen. He also emphasized that Dr. Vargo would make the final recommendations. Now to Dr. Vargo -- I continue to sing his praises. He provided me with more simple day to day recommendations which have been a great help. I would not have known about these helps had it not been for Dr. Vargo. I continue to be impressed with his professionalism, friendliness and excellent "bed-side manners". Dr. Vargo goes the extra mile to show his sincere concern for me as a patient and the best possible out-come for future surgery. I would go as far as to say Dr. Vargo is my HERO and CHAMPION.
UofU Patient
July 22, 2013
I was extremely impressed with Dr. Vargo's knowledge and skill as well as his bedside manner. I was also impressed with his teaching skills and his relationship with the students under him.
UofU Patient
July 17, 2013
I didn't complete the survey from the initial consultation with Dr. Vargo. However, I feel obligated to comment on the professionalism of him and his staff. In that initial consultation, I was very impressed with how patient and courteous Dr. Vargo was, and how thoughtful and attentive he was in thoroughly answering all my questions. One of the most professionally courteous physicians I've ever encountered.
UofU Patient
July 15, 2013
excellent experience for a hospital visit
UofU Patient
June 03, 2013
My experience with follow up was excellent
UofU Patient
May 07, 2013
dr. Vargo was very informative. he is an excellent doctor. We hope to not need his services again but would definitely recommend him.
UofU Patient
April 18, 2013
good
UofU Patient
April 01, 2013
initial visit was a good experience with all questions answered and noted by Dr. Vargo. Followup was also a very good experience. I would highly recommend Dr. Vargo to anyone with a surgical procedure.
UofU Patient
March 11, 2013
I believe Dr. Vargo to be a great doctor who is very accommodating to my surgery and FMLA needs.
UofU Patient
March 08, 2013
This was a bad experience from the Saturday night visit to the ER to the Monday morning surgery follow-up visit. The only good experiences was with a nurse in the ER (can't remember her name) and another ER individual by name of Todd Ashby (he was great).
UofU Patient
February 25, 2013
Dr. Vargo is the finest surgeon I could have ever chosen. I have full confidence in his abilities, and I recommend him to others constantly. This past visit was the best one I have ever had with him as he took the time to explain everything to me in a comprehensive way.
UofU Patient
January 28, 2013
I am so grateful to have been referred to Dr. Vargo a few years ago. He truly is the VERY BEST!!
UofU Patient
January 08, 2013
The whole visit was great. Ontime, got me in for ultrasound same day.
UofU Patient
December 31, 2012
my first experience with this doctor would certainly again lead me to contact him if I needed to, or to refer others to him for care.
UofU Patient
December 31, 2012
I'm glad I chose Dr. Vargo as my surgeon.
UofU Patient
November 19, 2012
There was no medications involved nor any more follow-up appointments. The doctors were very nice and thorough.
UofU Patient
November 05, 2012
The sx f/u visit was comprehensive: Dr. Vargo was clear, kind, thorough, and a good teacher of the medical student who was present. Exceptional.
UofU Patient
October 08, 2012
The care providers were extremely knowledgeable, helpful, concern, and caring
UofU Patient
July 25, 2012
I felt the Dr. felt some of my questions were ridiculous. He did not give me any instructions about follow up care, i.e. recuperation time, lifting restrictions, etc.
UofU Patient
July 23, 2012
I was very impressed with Dr. Vargo, and he had an excellent bedside manner. I am 100% comfortable with him doing my surgical procedure.
UofU Patient
July 09, 2012
Dr. is amazing. I've referred many of my friends to him because of what a wonderful doctor he is.
UofU Patient
July 05, 2012
The doctors and nurses were very nice and did everything possible to make mw comfortable.
UofU Patient
April 27, 2012
I have recommended Dr. Vargo to other Doctors in the Idaho Falls, Idaho area. I am told they have referred patients to Dr Vargo on my recommendations.
UofU Patient
February 17, 2012
I would recommend Dr. Vargo and his staff to anyone needing this kind of surgery.
UofU Patient
January 13, 2012
This visit marked the end of a difficult and complicated surgical procedure that was successfully completed by Dr. Vargo and his staff. No other surgeon in the Salt Lake City area was willing to attempt this surgical task.
Dr. Vargo's clinical practice involves basic general surgery, including gallbladder and hernia surgery. He utilizes basic and advanced techniques in performing these procedures, including minimally invasive surgery/laparoscopy and robotic surgery.
In addition, Dr. Vargo has a specialty practice in complex abdominal wall surgery, including large incisional/ventral hernias, parastomal hernias, and fistulas to the abdominal wall. He has performed more than 500 complex abdominal wall reconstructions and is considered one of the experts in this field. He is currently working to advance the techniques of robotic surgery as they apply to complex abdominal reconstruction.
Academic Locations
School of Medicine
801-587-7963
University Hospital
801-587-7963
Board Certification and Academic Information
Academic Departments | Surgery
-
Professor (Clinical) |
Academic Divisions | General Surgery |
Research Interests
- Competency in Medical Education
- Resident Selection for Surgery
- Complex Abdominal Wall Defects
Education History
Diploma | University of Michigan Education MHPE |
Fellowship | University of California - Davis Surgical Critical Care Fellow |
Residency | University of Wisconsin Surgery Resident |
Internship | University of Wisconsin Surgery Intern |
Professional Medical | Baylor College of Medicine Medicine M.D. |
Undergraduate | University of Michigan Chemistry B.S. |
The Scope & Other Podcasts
- Preparing Your Body for Surgery Can Make Your Recovery Faster and More Painless
- The Evolution of Fluid Resuscitation in Trauma Patients - Daniel Vargo MD -12/14/2012
- Surgical Education Update - Dan Vargo MD - 06/06/12
- Video Message from Program Director
- Leadership Elective in General Surgery
- Rural Health Residency Program
- General Surgery Training Philosophy
- Residency Program Global Surgery 2013