Dr. Jessica Cohan is board-certified in both colorectal and general surgery. Her clinical practice includes the treatment of cancers of the small bowel, colon, and rectum, as well as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, fistulas, and many other diseases of the digestive tract and anal area. She is trained in minimally invasive techniques as well as complex and revisional surgery. She believes that patients should be empowered to actively participate in their medical and surgical care because treatment is most effective when the patient and provider form a treatment team. She enjoys educating patients about their health and treatment options, developing treatment plans that center around what matters most to her patients.

Dr. Cohan graduated summa cum laude from the California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California. Following medical school at Cornell, Dr. Cohan completed her General Surgery training at the University of California San Francisco where she was awarded the Lawrence W. Way Critical Thinking and the Haile T. Debas Resident Teaching Awards. She completed a fellowship in Colon and Rectal Surgery at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Massachusetts. She treats patients at the University Hospital and the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

Specialties

Board Certification

American Board of Surgery American Board of Colon & Rectal Surgery

Patient Rating

4.9 /5

( out of 94 reviews )

The patient rating score is an average of all responses on our patient experience survey. The rating averages scores for all questions about care from our providers.

The scale on which responses are measured is 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.

Patient Comments

Patient comments are gathered from our patient experience survey and displayed in their entirety. For the convenience of our visitors, some patient comments have been translated from their original language into English while preserving their original meaning as accurately as possible. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

It was my first meeting with Dr Cohan and I'm sure I'm going to love having her as my surgeon. She seems to care about how this all goes, which I truly appreciate. It feels so personal to have someone cut me open; I like to know they can imagine it from my side of the equation.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Cohan has been very attentive to Jesica's needs and remember's details and concerns I have had from previous visits and will address those as well, without me even reminding her about them.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

This Dr is fantastic. She is very nice, listened to me, genuinely cares, and didn't rush the visit. A+

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is excellent in her field. Couldn't ask for a better doctor.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Not happy with decision. Had me wait 3 months to say on email nothing she can do for me. Very disappointed Find another surgeon. Sad they hurt bad

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Incredible and Caring physician and surgeon! They dont get better that Dr. Cohan.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Her actions and communication clearly expresses her passion for her profession and patients.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I am in the best possible hands with this surgeon. She is simply amazing in every aspect, thoroughly competent, professional, and kind. She listens intently and includes my input in her treatment plan. I can't ask for better medical care.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She is the best. She made it so I'm still here today.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

very comforting and thorough.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is an excellent doctor and has always been very responsive to my questions and concerns.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I like Dr. Cohan very much, she is a wonderful listener and provided very sensible and reasonable recommendations for dealing with my j-pouch issues. She also has a wonderful staff.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Jessica knows her job and tells you what's going on and makes sure you understand. Very friendly and supportive.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is knowledgeable, kind, skilled and she is the epitome of excellence.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

She is an excellent Dr. I absolutely love her and would recommend her to many patients

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Cohan is great! Very thorough, and very kind. She understood. I was very anxious about my procedure and took the time to make sure I understood everything and was as comfortable as was possible before during and after my procedure. She really is excellent!!!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

A very caring doctor. Glad she's my surgeon

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

A+

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Excellent care and communication! Addressed all my questions and concerns. Really like Dr. Cohan

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Cohan did a phenomenal job during appt

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is wonderful and showed so much concern and compassion for me as a patient. My problems are quite complex and she showed me the pros and cons regarding each of my options. I would highly recommend her to anyone.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I felt completely heard and understood by Dr. Cohan and the resident, Dr. Pfifer. I appreciate their handling of a sensitive medical topic. I was kind of dreading this appointment and they made it pleasant and easy. thank you!!

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I like Dr Cohan and her staff very much. They are easy to reach and always responsive to my questions and concerns. As a surgeon, I have complete faith and trust in Dr. Cohan, she has a full grasp of my ongoing health issues and helps me to navigate through them. She is easy to talk to and always makes me feel at ease.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is an amazing, caring physician and we feel truly blessed to be in her care

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr. Cohan is very knowledgeable and considerate in the true sense of the word. She is an exceptional listener. She takes the time to explain procedures in detail and gives you the time to ask questions.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Wonderful doctor and gifted surgeon

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan has gone above and beyond to address my medical needs. I appreciate the time she has taken to answer all my questions and address any concerns I had.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Did NOT just assume that I was too old or stupid to understand what the procedure was going to be. Treated me as an intelligent individual who could understand all aspects of procedure. Totally understood my anxiety and did well at addressing it without making me feel there was something wrong with ME because of it. Greatly appreciate being treated with respect.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Professional

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is the best!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Doctor Cohen is extremely knowledgeable, experienced and compassionate. I wouldn't go anywhere else.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

excellent doctor.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I was listened to, acknowledged, and respected, which led to me feeling extremely confident in Dr. Cohan and her staff.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is very proficient, knows my history and conditions. She is very polite and understanding.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is kind and responsive to concerns. She is effective in assuaging fears. She is also very personable as well as approachable. She seems upbeat and happy to work on a successful outcome.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Thank you Jessica Cohan, MD for your expertise.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I would be hard pressed to find a better provider than Dr. Cohan. She listens, she understands, and she always provides reasonable, practical medical advice. I trust her completely and am so thankful she's my doctor.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

very positive

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Cohan is amazing She takes the time to really listen and explains everything so you can understand

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr Cohan is an exceptional physician, very bright, determined, informed, courteous, kind, a great listener, and so much more. I'm very fortunate to be in her care.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr. Cohan is compassionate, respectful, and very caring about her patients well being.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

excellent bedside manner, explained things clearly

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

She was very helpful

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She is a very good doctor

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I see many doctors. Dr Cohan is the finest!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I felt very comfortable with Dr. Cohan. Explained everything and made sure I understood

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Very good

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Very impressed with Dr. Cohan. Put me at ease and explained things clearly.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr Cohan and one of the Ostomy Nurses listened and addressed the problems we had. They both urged us to call back with any concern. Which we will.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Seems good.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Exelente muy profecional

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is the best!! She always thoroughly explains the problem and options.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I like this provider very much. She's a very good listener, she was responsive to all of my questions and concerns, and has included me in treatment decisions. She also has a very competent, caring staff, all of whom I like very much.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan was very caring and concerned. She seemed so knowledgeable and explained the procedures so well. I feel very confident in her abilities. It took a long time for my referral to connect me with a surgeon, but worth the wait.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr Cohan is one of many of the awesome people that are on our healthcare team. She's thorough, attentive, and thoughtful. We are very grateful for all of the U of U staff.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is very well respected in her field of expertise. She came highly recommended and provided excellent care. She spent plenty of time with me in order to explain different care options before we arrived at the right choice of action for me. I'm so grateful for the experience and expertise Dr Cohan proved to help find the right choice of action for me and my health condition. I would highly recommend Dr Cohan to anyone having colon or diverticulosis issues.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I love Dr. Cohan. she is friendly and caring. I am almost sad I healed so quickly. she did such a great job on my surgery. she explained everything and made me feel comfortable about the procedure. I would highly recommend her!

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I felt so much more informed, cared for , and calm after this visit. I had been feeling a little lost after my new diagnosis and hospital discharge 8 weeks ago and this visit made me feel confident in the care I would receive moving forward.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Very professional... Thank You

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

dr. Cohan and her staff have been receptive to all of my health concerns and have been wonderful at listening, explaining, and providing care

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

My surgeon was absolutely the best!! Her team must have been equally as qualified. I felt like my surgery absolutely could not have possibly been better in any way. I have the deepest admiration for their knowledge. Especially my surgeon.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is amazing!! I can't recommend her enough! Her bedside manner is incredible. She listens, validates and includes you in your care plan.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Nicest doctor I have ever met. Never rushed me through the appointment.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Jessica Cohan MD was very professional. She explained everything in terms that a non medical professional ould understand.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I would recommend her to anyone needing this type of surgery and care.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

I feel very fortunate that Dr. Cohan is part of my medical team.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

She is kind, caring and she puts my needs first. Dr. Cohan has the best bed side manner.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She was everything I could have hoped for in a doctor to get me through this difficult time in my life.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Wonderful. I feel fortunate to have her as my Doctor.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Shes very nice D.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She is a great communicator and made me feel comfortable and well informed

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is amazing. Very caring understanding and willing to explain anything and take the time so you understand it I referred my stepmom for care and she loves her too so glad I met Dr. Cohen.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan gave me a detailed description of my condition and all the options for treatment. she was so caring and thorough. i felt great about the plan. great doctor.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I showed up late to my appointment, at least an hour late. Dr. Jessica Cohan STILL took me back and slid me into her schedule the same day. She is amazing!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

It was my first visit with Dr. Cohan, but I can already tell she is great. I would definitely recommend her!

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Cohan was absolutely terrific. She had top notch bedside manner, did an excellent job explaining the exam all the way through the process. She actively listened, answered all of my questions, and made what would have been an uncomfortable experience a good one. Thanks for the excellent care and for working me in. The whole team made my day!

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan was absolutely incredible. I feel very comfortable in her doing my surgery. Her approach eased my anxiety. The rest of the the nursing staff showed professionalism along with being friendly.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Excellent,Dr Cohan is super.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Based on what has happened thus far, I'd feel pretty comfortable recommending the clinic and Dr. Cohan to somebody with a similar condition. We'll see where it goes from here.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohen is incredibly kind and caring. She does everything she can to explain what can be complex medical issues in way a patient can understand.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

If you have the good fortune to be a patient with Dr Cohan you will receive the best of care.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan was very clear and very thorough in her assessment and explanation of my options as related to my condition

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Very kind, professional, and thoughtful. Explains your treatment and gives you space to ask questions. Thank you for a stress free visit.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

She was incredibly kind and professional. She addressed my concerns and listened.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

We have every confidence in Dr Cohan's commitment to improve my health with all at her disposal!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Skilled surgeon and doctor. She listens, answers questions throughly, and is compassionate.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

The kindest human you can imagine with surgical skills to match. A very complex and demanding surgery with an excellent outcome was only part of her skill set. Her understanding of my needs and ability to put me at ease made such a difference.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

My appointment went much better this time & It was much more positive & I was talked to instead of talked at. She's not much on helping u with ur daily ongoing pain which is sad but I'm thinking long term might go better I sure hope

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

She's one of the doctors we every met

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is a great doctor. So helpful and knowledgeable.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan showed that she was knowledgeable about my body and she showed sympathy about the problems I was having. She showed sorrow for me having to wait so long to see her.

Huntsman Cancer Institute

Dr. Cohan goes out of her way to care for her patients. I had a complication following surgery and she personally called me to calm my concerns. She is compassionate, intelligent, and empathetic. I am glad she is my surgeon.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr Cohan & Dr Robbins really listen. I feel confident in their skills, also. Great care.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan was incredibly helpful and informative. My questions were answered and everything was explained to me.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She showed me the respect and validated my feelings and concerns

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She is very knowledgeable and I can see that she cares.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan listens and validates, is very pleasant and reassuring as well as competent and experienced.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She was very confident in her ability to help me, which gave me so much peace of mind and reassurance. When other doctors were unable to help me, she was. She took my medical problems seriously and made sure I was comfortable during examinations and procedures. She gave me relief after weeks of debilitating pain!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She was very nice and positive about options on my health care.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Very professional Dr. Explains things where you can understand them.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Cohan is the only Doctor that I would want. She makes me comfortable and confident in our plan of treatment

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Very personable & easy to understand. Very kind.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

I really like her

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr. Cohan was friendly and professional. She examined me and explained every step of the procedure. She told me what my options were in treating outside hemorrhoids. I felt well informed so that I could make my own decisions about the measures to take going forward.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Exudes knowledge and confidence yet humble and caring that makes me feel confident I am in great care.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr. Cohan is an excellent surgeon, who I literally trust with my life. My husband and I are extremely grateful for her amazing qualities, both as a physician and as a human being.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

He was simply amazing .

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Competent, kind, caring, knowledgeable, efficient.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan was concerned about not only my frame of mind but, she let me know that she is going to do she could to help get me through this procedure.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan was very helpful and professional. She answered the questions we have regarding my condition.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Respectful and informative conversation.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

it was excellent I even learned new things about my health problems

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

The care I received was excellent. Thank you.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is an excellent physician and I feel very fortunate to be under her care. We have a very good relationship and I trust her fully.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan always seeks my input, and describes care plans in easy to understand terms. She is a fantastic MD.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I can't sufficiently describe my esteem and gratitude for Dr. Cohan. She is committed to helping me to have the best quality of life possible given my disability, and I know that I'm in the best possible hands with her. She is also a great listener and she always returns my calls and messages. I'm so thankful for her and her wonderful staff.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan was very thorough and understanding.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan and her wonderful staff set the standard for how medical care should be administered. I feel very fortunate to be under their care.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Good doctor.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr Cohan is very nice and explained my cancer treatment every visit, Dr Cohan also did my surgery and helped me thru the after care with friendship. I seen her for the last time due to a new diagnosis that she did not want to bother me with the visits, she did say if I needed her with any problems or just any questions to get ahold of her. She also said if I needed her in any way with my new condition to have her put on my team.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is skilled and she also cares about the individual patient.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is bright, extremely professional, kind and caring. She is a shining example of what you hope your doctor should be. I trust her with my life.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Excellent physician!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Jessica and her team are great, you fell comfortable in what can be considered an uncomfortable situation.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr Cohan always takes time with us. She Is great at explaining options, concerns, tests needed, etc and always asks if we have questions. And we never feel rushed.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I am so happy to have Dr. Cohan on my team. Her education, experience, expertise, and her concern for a patient allows me to trust her completely with my health concerns.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

It was a great experience. I highly recommend Dr. Cohan. She is amazing.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

She was very knowledgeable and knew my medical history before she even entered the room.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is a joy to receive care from. Its abundantly clear she loves her job and listens to and cares for her patients individually.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr Cohan has made me feel throughout this whole roller coaster of cancer and family problems that I could count on her for anything I could possibly have needed her for.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Very down to earth compassionate and professional.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is an amazing, caring surgeon who listens, offers common sense advice, and understands the issues I deal with on a daily basis. I can freely discuss my health issues her and know that the advice she offers is correct and in my best interests.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I have complete confidence in Dr. Cohan. I would recommend her to anyone needing surgery.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Good

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Jessica Cohan has been very good with us thus far! I appreciate her knowledge and willingness to listen and to help.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is an excellent physician; she's a great listener, she is kind and empathetic, and she inspires confidence. I'm very happy to have her as an integral part of my medical team.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Very nice and caring

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Great Dr. 5 star all the way. She is great with patient, knowledgeable and kind. I felt she was caring and very professional

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Not professional and very disappointed in her lack of reviewing my prior appointment notes should of been such an embarrassment to her but she doesn't really care. Sad because I had how that she waisted my time and hers!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Great

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr Cohan is one of the best drs who has ever treated me. She listens, she's knowledgeable re my condition, she has always included me in treatment decisions, and she approaches my care in a reasonable and logical manner. She also has a great staff and I'm very grateful to all of them for my excellent care.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

my doctor is a wonderful woman!!

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

clear explanation of treatment options and probable outcomes. Excellent experience.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

She had already decided before talking to me. She was really behind and in a hurry that day.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I'm so glad I decided to make the drive to see Dr. Cohan. She saved me from having a procedure that would have made my problem worse and caused a lot more suffering.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

by far one of the best physicians I have seen

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Awesome experience. Explained surgery process very thoroughly. She listened to me and showed respect for my concerns and my experiences. I felt like I had finally found the answers to my needs. She is compassionate and caring. I look forward to my upcoming surgery and I feel she cares about me and my situation. I feel blessed finding the kind of surgeon that has provided me with confidence due to her skills and knowledge.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is so considerate and kind.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I was extremely impressed by Dr Jessica Cohan. She listened to me, explained everything clearly, very knowledgeable. Also very caring.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Thank you so much for helping me and definitely recommending you to all my friends and family. You and your fellow were awesome.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Thank you Dr. Cohan for your care, I couldnt have asked for a better surgeon.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Gifted Surgeon & Excellent Physician.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Jessica is very caring and very thorough in her evaluation. She pointed out the positive and negative aspects of the process if I were to have surgery. Which helped me to evaluate and make the best decision going forward for my Health Care.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan was great to explain our options and was so positive and encouraging!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr Cohan is an extremely skilled at explaining all of the options available to a patient prior to treatment. She is also very good at explaining the risk associated and confident in her ability execute once a decision is made on how to move forward.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr.'s have provided excellent care. Dr.'s German, Suzuki, and Cohan have been excellent, providing quality care and been exceptionally kind.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr Cohan came highly recommended by other surgeons that I have worked with for many years. She spent 45 minutes with me going over my situation and recommended treatment options. She provided me with two solutions before deciding on the best path forward. Once a decision was made she walked me through the procedure and provided a list of risks including potential probabilities based on my age and medical histtory.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

very thorough explanations

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Again just a perfect visit from all the staff.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is wonderful! She listens and takes the necessary time to answer questions and gives a thorough explanation. Her bedside manner is warm and caring. She is a real person. Other doctors could take a lesson or two from her on compassion and patient care.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Showed concern above and beyond expectations (which are high) and rated an 11 on a 1-10 scale

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is patient and kind. She answers all questions thoroughly and in a way that people can understand. She never makes you feel rushed through your appointment. She has a lot of compassion and a great bed side manner.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

I had an appointment scheduled for four days later for her to conduct a surgical exam so she wasn't able to tell me much - this was more like a consultation. She listened and built trust with me. I feel confident about her ability to help me once we figure out what is going on.

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Dr Cohan is an amazing woman. Not only as a surgeon but as a person. She not only performed a very difficult surgery for me, but did so with amazing precision. I was to expect a two week or more stay after the surgery, I was heading home after only a week. I am very thankful that I was referred to her. I will always be thankful for her helping me with what was necessary to be able to have a healthier future.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

I needed a highly skilled colorectal surgeon due to the size and location of a pre-cancerous mass growing in my colon. Another doctor warned me that the surgery might result in my needing to have a stoma bag for the rest of my life. I found Dr Cohan by way of referral from another surgeon. She was a God send. My husband and I met her and decided that she was my very best option. Her competence was apparent to us after meeting with her and we booked surgery at the earliest opportunity. She had a very calming effect on me. While waiting for the anesthetic to kick in, she sat next to me, held my hand, and played some calming music for me. I was really touched by her caring attitude. She called my husband on his phone directly following my surgery to give him the good news about a successful surgery. He was very appreciative of that, and she answered all of his questions. Her follow-up with me was timely and comforting. Due to her skill and precision, a bag was unnecessary! She's the best

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan was very kind, thorough and sensitive regarding a sensitive issue. The nurse was good too.

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan is very personable and friendly. She cares about my needs. Highly recommend her.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Excellent!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan was excellent. She listened to my husband and explained what she wanted to do in a way that was easy to understand. She answered our questions. 10/10 would see her again.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Dr. Cohan is fantastic. She is very caring, very professional and just damn good.

UH HOSPITALS AND CLINICS

Excellent!

HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

Dr. Cohan and her team are the best. Everyone took really great care of me and the healing process after surgery was easy. I would highly recommend this group. Also the team who responds to emails and assisted me with paperwork. Great service and very friendly.

Board Certification and Academic Information

Academic Departments	Population Health Sciences -Adjunct Assistant Professor Surgery -Associate Professor
Academic Divisions	Surgical Oncology
Board Certification	American Board of Surgery American Board of Colon & Rectal Surgery

Education history

Undergraduate	Microbiology - California Polytechnic State University	B.S.
Professional Medical	Medicine - Weill Cornell Medical College	M.D.
Residency	General Surgery - University of California, San Francisco	Resident
Fellowship	Health Policy - University of California, San Francisco, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies	Fellow
Graduate Training	Clinical Research - University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine	M.A.S.
Fellowship	Colorectal Surgery - Lahey Hospital & Medical Center	Fellow

Selected Publications

Journal Article

Cavallaro PM, Fearnhead NS, Bissett IP, Brar MS, Cataldo TE, Clarke R, Denoya P, Elder AL, Gecse KB, Hendren S, Holubar S, Jeganathan N, Myrelid P, Norton BA, Wexner SD, Wilson L, Zaghiyan K, Bordeianou L; PROPS Delphi Study Expert Panels. (2021). Patients Undergoing Ileoanal Pouch Surgery Experience a Constellation of Symptoms and Consequences Representing a Unique Syndrome A Report from the Patient Reported Outcomes after Pouch Surgery (PROPS) Delphi Consensus Study. Ann Surg, DOI: 10.1097/SLA.0000000000004829.
Cohan JN, Bacchetti P, Varma MG, Finlayson (2015). Impact of Patient Age on Procedure Type for Ulcerative Colitis: A National Study. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 58(8), 769-74. (Read full publication)
Chou AB, Cohan JN, Varma M (2015). Differences in Symptom Severity and Quality of Life in Patients With Obstructive Defecation and Colonic Inertia. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 58(10), 994-8. (Read full publication)
Cohan JN, Ozanne EM, Sewell JL, Hofer RK, Mahadevan U, Varma MG, Finlayson (2016). A Novel Decision Aid for Surgical Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: Results of a Pilot Study. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 59(6), 520-8. (Read full publication)
Cavallaro PM, Fearnhead NS, Bissett IP, Brar MS, Cataldo TE, Clarke R, Denoya P, Elder AL, Gecse KB, Hendren S, Holubar S, Jeganathan N, Myrelid P, Norton BA, Wexner SD, Wilson L, Zaghiyan K, Bordeianou L; PROPS Delphi Study Expert Panels (2021). Patients Undergoing Ileoanal Pouch Surgery Experience a Constellation of Symptoms and Consequences Representing a Unique Syndrome A Report from the Patient Reported Outcomes after Pouch Surgery (PROPS) Delphi Consensus Study. Diseases of the colon and rectum, DOI: 10.1097/DCR.0000000000002099,
Cohan JN, Bacchetti P, Varma MG, Finlayson (2015). Outcomes after ileoanal pouch surgery in frail and older adults. The Journal of surgical research, 198(2), 327-33. (Read full publication)
Cohan JN, Chou AB, Varma M (2015). Faecal incontinence in men referred for specialty care: a cross-sectional study. Colorectal disease, 17(9), 802-9. (Read full publication)
Moliterno JA, Knopman J, Parikh K, Cohan JN, Huang QD, Aaker GD, Grivoyannis AD, Patel AR, Hartl R, Boockvar J (2010). Results and risk factors for recurrence following single-level tubular lumbar microdiscectomy. Journal of neurosurgery. Spine, 12(6), 680-6. (Read full publication)
Bleicher J, McGuire LE, Robbins RB, Johnson JE, Fischbuch S, Gupta S, Beck AC, Cohan J (2022). Preoperative advance care planning for older adults undergoing major abdominal surgery. The American journal of hospice & palliative care, 39(4), 406-412.
Cohan JN, Horns JJ, Hanson HA, Allen-Brady K, Kieffer MC, Huang LC, Brooke B (2023). The Association Between Family History and Diverticulitis Recurrence: A Population-Based Study. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 66(2), 269-277. (Read full publication)
Johnson JE, Bleicher J, Blumling AN, Cain BT, Cohan JN, Savarise M, Harris AHS, Kaphingst KA, Huang L (2023). The Influence of Rural Healthcare Systems and Communities on Surgery and Recovery: A Qualitative Study. The Journal of surgical research, 281, 155-163. (Read full publication)
Draper P, Bleicher J, Kobayashi JK, Stauder EL, Stoddard GJ, Johnson JE, Cohan JN, Kaphingst KA, Harris AHS, Huang L (2022). Patient Willingness to Dispose of Leftover Opioids After Surgery: A Mixed Methods Study. Annals of surgery open, 3(4), e223. (Read full publication)
Himbert C, Warby CA, Gigic B, Ose J, Lin T, Viskochil R, Peoples AR, Ashworth A, Schrotz-King P, Scaife CL, Cohan JN, Jedrzkiewicz J, Schirmacher P, Grady WM, Cohen SA, Krane M, Figueiredo JC, Toriola AT, Siegel EM, Shibata D, Round JL, Huang LC, Li CI, Schneider M, Ulrich A, Hardikar S, Ulrich C (2022). Associations of Individual and Combined Physical Activity and Body Mass Index Groups with Proinflammatory Biomarkers among Colorectal Cancer Patients. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention, 31(12), 2148-2156. (Read full publication)
Himbert C, Stephens WZ, Gigic B, Hardikar S, Holowatyj AN, Lin T, Ose J, Swanson E, Ashworth A, Warby CA, Peoples AR, Nix D, Jedrzkiewicz J, Bronner M, Pickron B, Scaife C, Cohan JN, Schrotz-King P, Habermann N, Boehm J, Hullar M, Figueiredo JC, Toriola AT, Siegel EM, Li CI, Ulrich AB, Shibata D, Boucher K, Huang LC, Schneider M, Round JL, Ulrich C (2022). Differences in the gut microbiome by physical activity and BMI among colorectal cancer patients. American journal of cancer research, 12(10), 4789-4801. (Read full publication)
Huang LC, Johnson JE, Bleicher J, Blumling AN, Savarise M, Wetter DW, Cohan JN, Harris AAS, Kaphingst K (2021). Promoting Disposal of Left-Over Opioids After Surgery in Rural Communities: A Qualitative Description Study. Health education & behavior, 50(2), 10901981211057540. (Read full publication)
Bleicher J, Esplin J, Blumling AN, Cohan JN, Savarise Md M, Wetter DW, Harris AHS, Kaphingst KA, Huang L (2021). Expectation-setting and patient education about pain control in the perioperative setting: A qualitative study. Journal of opioid management, 17(6), 455-464. (Read full publication)
Cohan JN, Ozanne EM, Hofer RK, Kelly YM, Kata A, Larsen C, Finlayson (2021). Ileostomy or ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis: patient participation and decisional needs. BMC gastroenterology, 21(1), 347. (Read full publication)
Coffman AR, Tao R, Cohan JN, Huang LC, Pickron TB, Torgeson AM, Lloyd (2021). Factors associated with the refusal of surgery and the associated impact on survival in patients with rectal cancer using the National Cancer Database. Journal of gastrointestinal oncology, 12(4), 1482-1497. (Read full publication)
Himbert C, Figueiredo JC, Shibata D, Ose J, Lin T, Huang LC, Peoples AR, Scaife CL, Pickron B, Lambert L, Cohan JN, Bronner M, Felder S, Sanchez J, Dessureault S, Coppola D, Hoffman DM, Nasseri YF, Decker RW, Zaghiyan K, Murrell ZA, Hendifar A, Gong J, Firoozmand E, Gangi A, Moore BA, Cologne KG, El-Masry MS, Hinkle N, Monroe J, Mutch M, Bernadt C, Chatterjee D, Sinanan M, Cohen SA, Wallin U, Grady WM, Lampe PD, Reddi D, Krane M, Fichera A, Moonka R, Herpel E, Schirmacher P, Kloor M, von Knebel-Doeberitz M, Nattenmueller J, Kauczor HU, Swanson E, Jedrzkiewicz J, Schmit SL, Gigic B, Ulrich AB, Toriola AT, Siegel EM, Li CI, Ulrich CM, Hardikar (2021). Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Colorectal Cancer in the ColoCare Study: Differences by Age of Onset. Cancers, 13(15), (Read full publication)
Baucom KJW, Pershing ML, Dwenger KM, Karasawa M, Cohan JN, Ozanne E (2021). Barriers and Facilitators to Enrollment and Retention in the National Diabetes Prevention Program: Perspectives of Women and Clinicians Within a Health System. Women's health reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.), 2(1), 133-141. (Read full publication)
Cohan JN, Orleans B, Brecha FS, Huang LC, Presson A, Fagerlin A, Ozanne E (2021). Factors Associated With Decision Regret Among Patients With Diverticulitis in the Elective Setting. The Journal of surgical research, 261, 159-166. (Read full publication)
Brecha FS, Ozanne EM, Esplin J, Stoddard GJ, Nirula R, Huang LC, Cohan J (2021). Patient Willingness to Accept Antibiotic Side Effects to Reduce Surgical Site Infection After Colorectal Surgery. The Journal of surgical research, 261, 417-422. (Read full publication)
Bleicher J, Cohan JN, Huang LC, Peche W, Pickron TB, Scaife CL, Bowles TL, Hyngstrom JR, Asare E (2021). Trends in the management of anorectal melanoma: A multi-institutional retrospective study and review of the world literature. World journal of gastroenterology, 27(3), 267-280. (Read full publication)
Tonna JE, Hanson HA, Cohan JN, McCrum ML, Horns JJ, Brooke BS, Das R, Kelly BC, Campbell AJ, Hotaling (2020). Balancing revenue generation with capacity generation: case distribution, financial impact and hospital capacity changes from cancelling or resuming elective surgeries in the US during COVID-19. BMC health services research, 20(1), 1119. (Read full publication)
Cohan JN, Donahue C, Pantel HJ, Ricciardi R, Kleiman DA, Read TE, Marcello P (2020). Endoscopic Step Up: A Colon-Sparing Alternative to Colectomy to Improve Outcomes and Reduce Costs for Patients With Advanced Neoplastic Polyps. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 63(6), 842-849. (Read full publication)
Cohan J (2018). Uncomplicated Sigmoid Diverticulitis. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 61(10), 1141-1144. (Read full publication)
Cohan JN, Rhee JY, Finlayson E, Varma M (2015). Impact of Surgery on Relationship Quality in Patients With Ulcerative Colitis and Their Partners. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 58(12), 1144-50. (Read full publication)
Cohan JN, Horns JJ, Ramsay JM, Huang LC, Allen-Brady (2023). Diverticulitis Familiality: A Statewide Case-Control Study. Journal of the American College of Surgeons, 237(5), 689-696. (Read full publication)
Himbert C, Ose J, Gigic B, Viskochil R, Santuci K, Lin T, Ashworth A, Cohan JN, Scaife CL, Jedrzkiewicz J, Damerell V, Atkins KM, Gong J, Mutch MG, Bernadt C, Felder S, Sanchez J, Cohen SA, Krane MK, Hinkle N, Wood E, Peoples AR, Figueiredo JC, Toriola AT, Siegel EM, Li CI, Shibata D, Boucher K, Round JL, Ulrich AB, Schneider M, Huang LC, Hardikar S, Ulrich C (2023). Associations of combined physical activity and body mass index groups with colorectal cancer survival outcomes. BMC cancer, 23(1), 300. (Read full publication)
Williamson AJH, Cain BT, Hoggan TJ, Larsen MW, Kimball ER, Bloomquist K, Galyean PO, Zickmund S, Cohan J (2024). Challenges and Opportunities in the Elective Management of Diverticulitis: Perspectives From a National Sample of Colorectal Surgeons. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 67(2), 264-272. (Read full publication)
Leonard ME, Horns JJ, Allen-Brady K, Ozanne EM, Wallace AS, Brooke BS, Supiano MA, Cohan J (2024). Recurrence of severe diverticulitis is associated with age and birth decade. Journal of gastrointestinal surgery, 28(4), 507-512. (Read full publication)
Tripathi N, Gebrael G, Chigarira B, Sahu KK, Balasubramanian I, Caparas C, Mathew Thomas V, Cohan JN, Pelletier K, Maughan BL, Agarwal N, Swami U, Gupta (2024). Treatment Patterns and Outcomes by Age in Metastatic Urinary Tract Cancer: A Retrospective Tertiary Cancer Center Analysis. Cancers, 16(11), (Read full publication)
Leonard ME, Williamson AJH, Weiss R, Kaphingst KA, Supiano MA, Cohan J (2025). A Framework to Optimize Primary Care of Older Surgical Patients: A Qualitative Study of Geriatricians. JAMA network open, 8(1), e2456787. (Read full publication)
Johnson JE, Pauleck S, Williamson AJH, Pahlkotter M, Brecha FS, Ferre N, Ortiz N, Marcus RL, Hardikar S, Cohan J (2025). Barriers and Facilitators to Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Health Fair Attendees in Utah. Journal of primary care & community health, 16, 21501319251316659. (Read full publication)
Cohan J (2024). Ensuring Goal-Aligned Care in a Busy Surgical Practice. Seminars in colon & rectal surgery, 35(4), (Read full publication)
Williamson AJH, Leonard M, Weiss R, Kaphingst KA, Supiano MA, Cohan J (2025). The surgeon's role in optimizing elective surgical care for older adults: Perspectives of outpatient geriatricians. Current problems in surgery, 68, 101764. (Read full publication)
Cohan J (2025). A Decision Aid for Diverticulitis: One Piece of the Puzzle. Diseases of the colon and rectum, (Read full publication)
Glenny EM, Lin T, Bandera VM, Mirminachi B, Khumukcham SS, Gigic B, Warby CA, Aksonova O, Coleman MF, Carpanese A, Busch C, Himbert C, Ose J, Nix DA, Boucher K, Schirmacher P, Strehli I, Hardikar S, Cohan JN, Jedrzkiewicz J, Brobeil A, Schneider MA, Kahlert C, Siegel EM, Byrd DA, Toriola AT, Shibata D, Li CI, Figueiredo JC, Tan AC, Roper J, Ulrich CM, Hursting S (2025). Obesity promotes conserved inflammatory and metabolic transcriptional programs in colon tumors: evidence from mouse models and the ColoCare Study Patient Cohort. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 122(6), 1545-1556. (Read full publication)
Hausmann O, Schobert PP, Ose J, Himbert C, Pletneva M, Jedrzkiewicz J, Nguyen A, Lin T, Warby CA, Hardikar S, Peoples AR, Strehli I, Huang LC, Cohan JN, Pickron B, Scaife C, Li CI, Grady WM, Shibata D, Toriola AT, Schneider M, Figueiredo JC, Siegel EM, Gigic B, Herzig S, Ilozumba MN, Ulrich C (2025). Associations of Biomarkers of Systemic Inflammation, Angiogenesis, and Cell-to-Cell Adhesion With Tumor Budding Among Early-Onset and Later-Onset Colorectal Cancer Patients. Cancer medicine, 14(18), e71267. (Read full publication)
Glenny EM, Lin T, Bandera VM, Mirminachi B, Khumukcham SS, Gigic B, Warby CA, Aksonova O, Coleman MF, Carpanese A, Busch C, Himbert C, Ose J, Nix DA, Boucher K, Schirmacher P, Strehli I, Hardikar S, Cohan JN, Jedrzkiewicz J, Brobeil A, Schneider MA, Kahlert C, Siegel EM, Byrd DA, Toriola AT, Shibata D, Li CI, Figueiredo JC, Tan AC, Roper J, Ulrich CM, Hursting S (2025). Obesity promotes conserved inflammatory and metabolic transcriptional programs in mouse and human colon tumors. bioRxiv, (Read full publication)
Hantouli MN, Schmicker RH, Tufte JE, Ali FG, Bennett RD, Cohan JN, Comstock BA, Curran T, Davidson GH, Eisenstein S, Fischkoff KN, Fleming FJ, Gribovskaja-Rupp I, Jafari MD, Kessler LG, Krane MK, Lawrence SO, McCormick JT, Millas SG, Morris AM, Pullar KM, Reinke CE, Saraidaridis JT, Simianu VV, Watkins SP, White NB, Wick EC, Wieghard N, Flum DR, Read TE, COSMID Collaborativ (2026). Comparison of Surgery and Medicine on the Impact of Diverticulitis (COSMID) trial: a protocol for a pragmatic randomised study of diverticulitis treatment in the USA. BMJ open, 16(1), e098309. (Read full publication)

Review

Cohan J (2018). Uncomplicated Sigmoid Diverticulitis. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 61(10), 1141-1144.
Cohan JN, Varma M (2015). Reoperative Surgery for Rectal Prolapse. Seminars in colon & rectal surgery, 26(4), 182-6.
Hall JK, Supiano MA, Cohan J (2025). Diverticulitis in Older Adults: A Review of Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, (Read full publication)

Book Chapter

Cohan JN, Varma M (2020). The Large Intestine.
Cohan JN, Varma M (2016). Anorectal Strictures.
Cohan JN, Varma M (2015). The Large Intestine.
Robbins R, Cohan J (2022). Diverticulitis.

Case Report

Cohan JN, Moliterno JA, Mok CL, Lavi E, Boockvar J (2011). Pineal parenchymal tumor of intermediate differentiation with papillary features: a continuum of primary pineal tumors?. Journal of neuro-oncology, 101(2), 301-6. (Read full publication)

Editorial

Cohan JN, Varma M (2014). Simple interventions for complex complications: moving surgery forward. Diseases of the colon and rectum, 57(1), 3-4. (Read full publication)
Finlayson EF, Cohan J (2016). Center the patient in the decision process: a tool to inform the consent and share the decision-making in patients with rectal cancer. 57(1), 3-4.
Cohan J, Finlayson (2017). Delivery Mode in Pregnant Patients with IBD: Uncertainty Remains. 23(5), 727.

Abstract

Cohan JN, Rhee J, Finlayson E, Varma (2015). Proctocolectomy: Impact on Relationship Quality in Ulcerative Colitis Patients and their Partners.
Cohan JN, Bacchetti P, Varma MG, Finlayson (2015). The Impact of Age and Frailty on Surgical Outcomes After Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis.