Donald Hammer, MD
Primary Location
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
- Appointment:
- 216.444.6697
- Desk:
- 216.444.5683
- Fax:
- 216.445.6167
Treatment & Services
- Aorta Center
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Cardiovascular Medicine Department
- Clinical Cardiology Section
- General Cardiology
- Perioperative Cardiac Management
Insurance
Is Cleveland Clinic Part of Your Insurance?
Review a list of accepted insurance plans for our Northeast Ohio locations or learn more about purchasing a contracted managed care plan.
View All PlansAbout Donald Hammer, MD
Dr. Donald Hammer is Director of Cardiology Surgical Services and a staff cardiologist in the Section of Clinical Cardiology, the Robert and Suzanne Tomsich Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, at the Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute. He is board certified in internal medicine and cardiology. Dr. Hammer's specialty interests are ischemic heart disease and perioperative cardiac management.
Dr. Hammer graduated summa cum laude from Case Western Reserve University (Phi Beta Kappa) with an undergraduate degree in chemistry. He received his medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, in Columbus, Ohio, where he was inducted in the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He completed his clinical internship and residency in internal medicine at The Ohio State University Hospitals, where he went on to receive a fellowship in cardiology.
Dr. Hammer served 10 years in the United States Naval Corps and retired as a Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Naval Medical Corps. He has had multiple academic appointments, which include Clinical Instructor in Internal Medicine at The Ohio State University Hospitals; Director of Education, Internal Medicine at the Naval Regional Medical Center at Camp Pendleton, CA; Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine and Associate Medical Director of the Cardiac Transplantation Program at The Ohio State University Hospitals; Education Coordinator for Cardiology at Wright State University in Dayton, OH, where he was also Director of the Cardiology Fellowship Training Program; Director of the Echocardiography Laboratory and Chairman of the Cardiology Research Panel at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton, among others. In 1998, Dr. Hammer was appointed to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation as Director of Cardiology Surgical Services.
Dr. Hammer has long been involved in clinical studies on his specialty interests and heart related issues. His post basic research endeavors included high-energy phosphate analysis in dilated cardiomyopathy and CHF. He currently is the principal investigator on a retrospective comparison of second and third generation beta blockers and post-operative atrial fibrillation prophylaxis, and is a co-investigator on the safety and efficacy in low molecular weight heparin in selected patients post open heart surgery. Dr. Hammer has participated in many other clinical trials including the QUIET STUDY and in the GUSTO trials.
He has presented his research findings and addressed his specialty interests at many national conferences and symposia. He is the author or co-author of articles related to his work in leading publications, including Circulation, Heart, and the New England Journal of Medicine, to name a few. In addition, he has co-authored a chapter on endogenous inotrope in a medical textbook on Cardiotonic Drugs.
Dr. Hammer is Fellow in the American College of Cardiology and a member of the American Medical Association, the American Society of Echocardiography and the Medical Society of Northeastern Ohio.
Education & Professional Highlights
Appointed
1998
Education & Fellowships
Fellowship - The Ohio State University Hospitals
Cardiology
Columbus,
OH USA
1986
Residency - The Ohio State University Hospitals
Internal Medicine
Columbus,
OH USA
1981
Internship - The Ohio State University Hospitals
Internal Medicine
Columbus,
OH USA
1979
Medical Education - The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Public Health
Columbus,
OH USA
1978
Undergraduate - Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Chemistry
Cleveland,
OH USA
1974
Certifications
- Internal Medicine
- Internal Medicine - Cardiovascular Disease
Specialty Interests
General cardiology, heart disease, aorta disease, perioperative cardiac management
Research & Publications
See publications for Donald Hammer, MD.
(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
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 3/20/2022, Dr. Hammer 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.
261 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 | |
|---|---|---|
| Explains | 4.9 | |
| Listens | 4.6 | |
| Courtesy, Respect & Concern | 4.9 | |
| Patient Rating of Doctor | 4.9 |
48 Patient Comments
© 2023 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All Rights Reserved. No part of this work may be altered, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, by any means, whether electronic, mechanical, by photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the Cleveland Clinic.
Reviewed on Apr 24, 2023
Dr. Hammer took his time and explained in great detail my history and diagnosis. Did not feel rushed.
Reviewed on Apr 18, 2023
Dr. Hammer is the best
Reviewed on Apr 17, 2023
It's doctors like Hammer and Bilitko that we come out of state, to be seen.
Reviewed on Mar 9, 2023
*Dr. Hammer and his team are just outstanding in everything they do.
Reviewed on Mar 5, 2023
*Dr. Hammer was very good in explaining why the delay in doing heart scan with the dye. *Dr. Hammer is very positive & professional & I am glad I had him for the load _____.
Reviewed on Mar 1, 2023
The provider is first class and extraordinarily important in meeting my health care concerns.
Reviewed on Feb 22, 2023
Dr. Hammer was very caring and even followed up with a phone call with further details.
Reviewed on Feb 21, 2023
My experience with the doctor was very good educational experience He asked me questions explained his findings I understood what He explained to me He asked me if I had any questions I said no and thanked him and how much I appreciated him
Reviewed on Feb 21, 2023
Excellent Doctor Takes the time to talk about me as to how I'm feeling very patient very professional and helpful
Reviewed on Feb 15, 2023
You should have an excellent (#6) rating for Dr. Hammer!!
Reviewed on Feb 10, 2023
For over a decade, Dr. Hammer has provided me with excellent care. He is compassionate about his patients and has always explained medical issues and procedures so I and my wife fully understand what my condition and issues are. I fully trust Dr. Hammer and his decisions and recommendations.
Reviewed on Feb 8, 2023
We were unable to connect for the video, however, Dr. Hammer called me immediately and we conducted a very thorough discussion.
Reviewed on Feb 7, 2023
Dr Hammer is excellent in his concern ,care and explanation of the problems!
Reviewed on Feb 6, 2023
Dr. Hammer listens and explains things very well.I feel he is very dedicated, and really cares about his patients.
Reviewed on Feb 6, 2023
Dr. Hammer took the time to explain well
Reviewed on Feb 3, 2023
Dr. Donald Hammer is one of the finest physicians I have ever had or met. First, his clinical knowledge is outstanding. But he also knows how to transfer that knowledge into a top of the line care plan for the patient. I would highly recommend him to anyone! His care is well worth the 3-4 hour drive from my home here in Ohio!
Reviewed on Feb 2, 2023
Dr Hammer is wonderful
Reviewed on Jan 26, 2023
Appointments are always an issue. Hard to get, even if the doc wants it.
Reviewed on Jan 23, 2023
Our records from our home hospital did not reach Cleveland or they were lost- so will find out more about the condition later- Dr. Hammer took tests of his own and will call me.
Reviewed on Jan 19, 2023
I was completely and satisified with every aspect of my Cardiology appointment with Dr. Donald Hammer.
Reviewed on Jan 17, 2023
DR. HAMMER IS VERY THOROUGH IN HIS EXPLANATION OF MY CONDITION AND SUBSEQUENT TREATMENTS.
Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023
Over and above. Was very lucky to have Dr. Hammer as a physician.
Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023
Excellent very nice Love Doctor DHammer very patient and I like He explained things to me
Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023
Very Kind Knowledgeable Doctor
Reviewed on Nov 29, 2022
Dr hammer is good
Reviewed on Nov 29, 2022
I have the utmost respect for Dr Hammer and feel very comfortable under his care and direction. He explains thoroughly and listens to our questions and concerns. Dr Hammer makes me feel like I am the focus of his attention and I never feel that he is in a rush. He has great follow up and is accessible.
Reviewed on Nov 29, 2022
I am glad I made the decision to have this life altering treatment at the Clinic and continue to have that decision reinforced as I continue my follow up care. It is also a very positive experience that I was able to coordinate labs, testing and re-hab in the Akron area while under the care of Dr Hammer (this convenience is greatly appreciated).
Reviewed on Nov 18, 2022
What can you say having the BEST in Cardiology?The only thing that can make it better? GET DR. HAMMER THE SUPPORT HE NEEDS!! HE WANTS TO FOCUS ON HIS PATIENTS AND RESEARCH! Not deal with every administrative aspect that a proper support team should provide. It is not fair to him and can have eventual consequences.
Reviewed on Nov 8, 2022
Dr Hammer has always been very thoughtful, concerned, and informed. Also, very patient and attentive.
Reviewed on Nov 3, 2022
Great Doctor everything could not be better
Reviewed on Oct 31, 2022
Dr Hammer is VERY busy and it's difficult to get an appointment with him on
Reviewed on Oct 31, 2022
Both Dr Hammer and his resident Dr Max P we're excellent! FINALLY a doctor who listens to me! Hooray !!
Reviewed on Oct 31, 2022
Dr Hammer is thorough and he's very personable and talkative. Therefore, he has a very tight schedule. There is no way he can see a patient ever 15-30 minutes. Give him 45-60 minutes and maybe he'll be more on time. Thanks
Reviewed on Oct 24, 2022
Excellent overview of the condition and treatment by Dr. Hammer
Reviewed on Oct 24, 2022
Dr Hammer gave me all the time I needed. Answered all my questions and put me on a game plan that that I understood and agreedVery satisfied and trust his opinion
Reviewed on Sep 13, 2022
Dr. Hammer is an excellent professional with fantastic communication skills.
Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
Dr. Hammer is excellent and patiently explains everything. He answered all my questions.
Reviewed on Aug 25, 2022
Dr Hammer is amazing.
Reviewed on Aug 24, 2022
Dr. Hammer is very easy to understand, concerned for my well being and my satisfaction with the treatment
Reviewed on Aug 18, 2022
Dr. Hammer was very helpful but there was a mistake in scheduling so there was confusion about the appointment as a first time video appt
Reviewed on Aug 18, 2022
See my above comment. Dr. Hammer was very helpful but the process of setting up was not accurate. Also I have not yet been contacted with the promised follow up appts
Reviewed on Aug 3, 2022
Dr. Hammer is very good!
Reviewed on Jul 26, 2022
Dr Hammer was extremely attentive and listened to my concern/scenario. I appreciated this level of concern and care.
Reviewed on Jul 25, 2022
Dr. Hammer fully explained the medical situation and the plan. My wife and I are so thankful that Dr. Hammer is part of my medical team!
Reviewed on Jul 19, 2022
Care provider excellent, but inability to reach anyone and follow up very poor.
Reviewed on Jun 13, 2022
Dr Hammer is an excellent Dr I am very happy to be treated by him very grateful
Reviewed on Jun 10, 2022
Both the doctor and his assistant took their time and were very thorough and professional. Dr. Hammer seemed genuinely determined to find the cause of my problem.
Reviewed on May 27, 2022
I am lucky to have Dr Hammer as my cardiologist He explained a new treatment for me .He reviewed the literature in excellent way.I am a physician.I asked him lot of questions regarding the study leading to approval of the new medicine.He answered my questions in very professional way.Dr Hammer is a valuable asset to Cleveland Clinic in my opinion.