Emergency icon Important Updates
Department Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
Primary Location Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Type of Doctor Adults Only
Languages English
Surgeon No
Locations
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Primary Location

Cleveland Clinic Main Campus

Appointment:
216.444.7000
Desk:
216.444.3423
Fax:
216.444.6284
Specialties & Treatments

Treatment & Services

  • Advanced Imaging Techniques
  • Argon Plasma Coagulation (APC)
  • Balloon-Assisted Enteroscopy (Double)
  • Balloon-Assisted Enteroscopy (Single)
  • Biliary Stone Therapy
  • Cancer Center
  • Capsule Endoscopy
  • Colonic Manometry
  • Colonoscopy
  • Deep Enteroscopy
  • Diagnostic Endoscopy
  • Double Balloon Enteroscopy
  • Endoscopic Cancer Therapy
  • Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
  • Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
  • Endoscopic Therapy of Anastomotic and Crohn's Disease Strictures
  • Endoscopic Treatment Of Strictures
  • Endoscopic Ultrasound
  • Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Celiac Block
  • Endoscopy
  • Enteral Stent Placement
  • Esophageal Band Ligation
  • Esophageal Dilation
  • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
  • Foreign Body Removal
  • Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
  • Gastrointestinal Exams
  • Interventional Endoscopy
  • Laparoscopy
  • Pancreatic Stone Therapy
  • Pancreaticobiliary Endoscopy
  • Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)
  • Therapeutic Endoscopy
  • Wireless Capsule Endoscopy
View all 34 Treatment & Services +

Specialty in Diseases & Conditions

  • Barrett's Esophagus
  • Bile Duct Cancer
  • Bile Duct Diseases
  • Bile Duct Obstruction
  • Bile Duct Stones
  • Biliary Tract Disease
  • Colon Polyps
  • Diseases of the Liver, Biliary Tract and Pancreas
  • Diseases of the Small Bowel
  • Duodenal Polyps
  • Esophageal Cancer
  • Gallbladder Disease
  • Gallstones
  • General Gastroenterological Disorders
  • Heartburn
  • Pancreatic Cancer
  • Pancreatic Disease
  • Pancreatic Stones
  • Pancreatitis
  • Stomach Cancer
  • Strictures of the GI Tract
View all 21 Specialties +
Insurance

Insurance

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Review a list of accepted insurance plans for our Northeast Ohio locations or learn more about purchasing a contracted managed care plan.

View All Plans
Education & Professional Highlights

Education & Professional Highlights

Appointed
1994

Education & Fellowships

Fellowship - Cleveland Clinic
Gastroenterology
Cleveland, OH USA
1990

Residency - Montefiore Hospital/Univ. Health Center of Pittsburgh
Internal Medicine
Pittsburgh, PA USA
1988

Medical Education - University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
MD
Rochester, NY USA
1985

Undergraduate - University of Rochester
Biology
Rochester, NY USA
1981

Graduate School - Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Cleveland, OH USA

Additional Training

  • Master of Public Health, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, 2003

Professional Highlights

  • American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Career Development Award, 2003

Certifications

  • Internal Medicine

Specialty Interests

advanced endoscopy, advanced imaging techniques, biliary tract disease, Capsule Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, CRCP, deep enteroscopy, deep enteroscopy and interventional endoscopy, Diagnostic and therapeutic EGD (upper endoscopy) and colonoscopy, diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, diagnostic/therapeutic endoscopy, diseases of the small bowel, double balloon enteroscopy, Double Balloon Enteroscopy i.e DBE ( Antegrade & Retrograde ) and Wireless Capsule Endoscopy, EMR, endoscopic mucosal ablative and resection techniques, Endoscopic Ultrasonography, Endoscopic Ultrasound, Endoscopy, Endoscopic cancer therapy, ERCP, Esophageal Cancer, EUS, gastrointestinal endoscopy, general gastroenterology, Pancreatic Cancer, pancreatic disorders, pancreaticobiliary endoscopy, Pancreatitis, stenting, therapeutic endoscopy, Therapeutic endoscopy including difficult colonoscopy and polypectomy

Awards & Honors

  • University of Rochester Alumni Scholarship, University of Rochester, Rochester, N.Y., 1977-1981
  • Phi Beta Kappa, University of Rochester, Rochester, N.Y., 1980 
  • Nominated for application, Cecil Rhodes Scholarship, University of Rochester, Rochester, N.Y., 1980
  • Marshal, commencement exercises, University of Rochester, Rochester, N.Y., 1981
  • BA, summa cum laude, University of Rochester, 1981
  • Health Professions Scholarship, United States Navy, 1982-1985
  • Certificate of Merit, American College of Physicians, 1993
  • Letter of Commendation, Office of the Attending Physician, United States Capitol, 1994
  • United States Navy Commendation Medal, 1994
  • Poster of Distinction Award, Digestive Disease  Week for “Nasopharyngeal Versus Transcutaneous Monitoring During ERCP,” 1998
  • Poster of Distinction Award, Digestive Disease  Week for “Gastroenterologist-Administered Propofol for Therapeutic Upper Endoscopy,” 1999
  • Poster of Distinction Award, Digestive Disease  Week for “Graphic Display of Respiratory Activity is Superior to Pulse Oximetry and Visual Assessment in the Detection of Respiratory Compromise During Therapeutic Upper Endoscopy,” 1999
  • Reviewer citation, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, 1999
  • Recognized for editorial excellence, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, 2001
  • Teacher of the Year, Department of Gastroenterology, 2002

Innovations & Patents

  • Use of capnography for patient monitoring during gastrointestinal endoscopy
  • Use of computer-assisted propofol sedation for gastrointestinal endoscopy

Memberships

  • American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
  • American Gastroenterological Association
  • American College of Gastroenterology
  • American College of Physicians
  • Honorary Fellow, Gastroenterology Society of Ecuador
Research & Publications

Research & Publications

See publications for John Vargo, MD, MPH.

(Disclaimer: This search is powered by PubMed, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. PubMed is a third-party website with no affiliation with Cleveland Clinic.)

Industry Relationships

Industry Relationships

Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists may collaborate with the pharmaceutical or medical device industries to help develop medical breakthroughs or provide medical expertise or education. Cleveland Clinic strives to make scientific advances that will benefit patient care and support outside relationships that promise public benefit. In order for the discoveries of Cleveland Clinic physicians' and scientists' laboratories and investigations to benefit the public, these discoveries must be commercialized in partnership with industry. As experts in their fields, Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists are often sought after by industry to consult, provide expertise and education.

To assure professional and commercial integrity in such matters, Cleveland Clinic maintains a program that reviews these collaborations and, when appropriate, puts measures in place to minimize bias that may result from ties to industry. Cleveland Clinic publicly discloses the names of companies when (i) its physicians/scientists receive $5,000 or more per year (or, in rare cases, equity or stock options) for speaking and consulting, (ii) its physicians/scientists serve as a fiduciary, (iii) its physicians/scientists receive or have the right to receive royalties or (iv) its physicians/ scientists hold any equity interest for the physician's/scientist's role as inventor, discoverer, developer, founder or consultant.* In publicly disclosing this information, Cleveland Clinic tries to provide information as accurately as possible about its physicians' and scientists' connections with industry.

As of 10/28/2023, Dr. Vargo has reported no financial relationship with industry that is applicable to this listing. In general, patients should feel free to contact their doctor about any of the relationships and how the relationships are overseen by Cleveland Clinic. To learn more about Cleveland Clinic's policies on collaborations with industry and innovation management, go to our Integrity in Innovation page.

Public Health Service-Reportable Financial Conflicts of Interest. Cleveland Clinic scientists and physicians engage in basic, translational and clinical research activities, working to solve health problems, enhance patient care and improve quality of life for patients. Interactions with industry are essential to bringing the researchers' discoveries to the public, but can present the potential for conflicts of interest related to their research activities. Click here to view a listing of instances where Cleveland Clinic has identified a Public Health Service (PHS)-Reportable Financial Conflict of Interest and has put measures in place to ensure that, to the extent possible, the design, conduct and reporting of the research is free from bias.

* Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists subscribe to the guidance presented in the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals and the AdvaMed Code of Ethics on Interactions with Health Care Professionals. As such, gifts of substantial value are generally prohibited.

Patient Satisfaction Reviews

221 Patient Satisfaction Reviews

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.

The comments are submitted by patients and reflect their views and opinions. The comments are not endorsed by and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cleveland Clinic.

Overall Star Ratings
4.9 out of 5
Explains 4.9
Courtesy, Respect & Concern 5
Patient Rating of Doctor 4.9

49 Patient Comments

Reviewed on Feb 27, 2024

Dr. Vargo is a caring compassionate care giver!

Reviewed on Feb 20, 2024

Excellent Doctor very good at explaining everything to me

Reviewed on Feb 12, 2024

Dr. Vargo is obviously an expert, yet he is caring and very much engaged in solving the patient's problems.

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2024

I really feel comfortable with Dr Vargo

Reviewed on Feb 1, 2024

Excellent. Came all the way from Austin, TX just to be treated by Dr. Vargo.

Reviewed on Jan 24, 2024

Dr Vargo is always excellent in every area

Reviewed on Jan 22, 2024

Dr. Vargo is a very caring Doctor Who is personable and makes you feel understood

Reviewed on Jan 15, 2024

I really appreciated Dr. Vargo's thoroughness, kindness and touch of humor.

Reviewed on Jan 10, 2024

Dr Vargo explains everything, listens and is one of the best Doctors I have encountered.

Reviewed on Dec 21, 2023

Dr. Vargo is the man!

Reviewed on Dec 21, 2023

I have the best Doctor period. More caring than anyone else I have ever had.

Reviewed on Dec 19, 2023

Dr Vargo is the only one I trust to do my colonoscopy.

Reviewed on Dec 19, 2023

Dr Vargo is a very kind empathetic doctor with a wonderful heart. His bedside manner is above and beyond anything I have experienced before, and he inspired confidence that the procedure would be a success.

Reviewed on Dec 7, 2023

Excellent care! Felt truly cared for and everything explained in detail. Truly felt that the Doctor and team cared fory well being every step!!!

Reviewed on Dec 7, 2023

Dr.Vargo kept me informed, gave complete and informative explanations, and answered all questions. He was polite and caring.

Reviewed on Dec 7, 2023

It was obvious the staff worked well together and Dr. Vargo's team were comfortable working with each other. Their collaboration made me comfortable and they all were caring and kind.

Reviewed on Nov 13, 2023

Dr Vargo is one of the kindest, professional and knowledgeable doctors I have ever seen. I've seen him twice now and both times he was prepared. He knew why I was coming in and took the time to explain what is going on with me medically and gives me a chance to ask questions.

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2023

Dr was on time for the call. This was my first televisit.

Reviewed on Nov 2, 2023

Dr Vargo is the best

Reviewed on Oct 19, 2023

Dr. John Vargo outstanding provider.

Reviewed on Oct 5, 2023

Dr. Vargo has excellent bedside manner. He is very conscientious.

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023

Dr. Vargo Is kind, pleasant, listens and responds and communicates very well.

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023

Dr. Vargo is an excellent doctor. He's very knowledgeable, listens and communicates well and is very caring

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023

We have never met Dr. Vargo before, and I was very pleasantly surprised, and felt comfortable and safe.

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2023

Dr.Vargo and the nurses and anesthesiologist were all great.

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2023

Could not ask for a better person or Doctor.

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2023

Dr. Vargo is the best! I highly recommend him to all!

Reviewed on Aug 21, 2023

Dr Vargo is very nice. He has excellent b

Reviewed on Aug 14, 2023

My doctor was excellent always explained what he was doing plus that I had no pain and was content

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2023

Dr. Vargo displays compassion, attention to detail, and is excellent at explaining things in a very easy to understand manner.

Reviewed on Jul 20, 2023

Dr John is patient and thorough in his explanations. He explains what he going to do thoroughly, and after the procedure, he explains what was done, and the expected results.

Reviewed on Jul 19, 2023

Dr Vargo always listens well keep us informed about the day and the future includes us in changes of care. He is just the BEST

Reviewed on Jul 10, 2023

Dr.Vargo was wonderful, very understanding and very pleasant to talk to. I felt at ease.

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2023

I appreciate Dr. Vargo's thoroughness and explanations during our session.

Reviewed on Jun 29, 2023

Dr. Vargo has been my doctor for well over 20 years now. He has always shown the utmost care and concern for me and my family. I have complete faith in him and know we don't have to worry if he's involved.

Reviewed on Jun 26, 2023

Dr. Vargo was excellent.

Reviewed on Jun 22, 2023

Dr. Vargo was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and had great bedside manner. He made me feel comfortable before and after my procedure. I would highly recommend Dr. Vargo.

Reviewed on Jun 13, 2023

Dr. Vargo is kind and caring. He is a really great doctor. I am so glad that he is my doctor. Thank you doctor Vargo.

Reviewed on May 31, 2023

Best doctor at the Cleve. CLINIC.

Reviewed on May 31, 2023

*Dr. John Vargo is the best.

Reviewed on May 16, 2023

Dr. Vargo is the best ... Details everything that will happen...his huddle before procedure A1

Reviewed on Apr 24, 2023

Dr. Vargo was very thorough and confident. This is the first time we met and I am confident he can help me with my pancreatitis.

Reviewed on Apr 18, 2023

I really like working with Dr. Vargo-he listens and explains well.

Reviewed on Apr 18, 2023

Dr Vargo was following the orders of Dr Gabbard. We wanted a more aggressive approach but Dr Vargo said he would only complete the procedure as described by Dr Gabbard.

Reviewed on Apr 18, 2023

Dr Vargo is excellent. Communicates thoroughly and in terms you can easily understand He Is just the best

Reviewed on Apr 12, 2023

Dr cargo is so caring and takes to explain everything. He really goes the extra mile

Reviewed on Apr 10, 2023

My responses in this section apply to the doctors. As always, they are exceptional.

Reviewed on Apr 3, 2023

Dr. Vargo is by far, the very best doctor that is part of my health care team. I've been his patient for 10 years and have received nothing short of excellence from him.

Reviewed on Apr 3, 2023

I would have liked to get an appointment sooner, but I understand that good doctors have full schedules.

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