Richard Schlenk, MD
Primary Location
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
- Appointment:
- 216.636.5860
- Desk:
- 216.445.4318
- Fax:
- 216.636.2040
Additional Locations
Center for Spine Health
Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center
8701 Darrow Road
Twinsburg, OH 44087
Directions
- Appointment:
- 216.636.5860
- Desk:
- 440.519.6800
- Fax:
- 216.636.2040
Treatment & Services
- Cervical Spine Surgery
- Complex Spinal Instrumentation
- Complex Spinal Reconstruction
- Complex Spinal Surgery
- Lumbar Spine Surgery
- Neck Surgery
- Spinal Fusion
- Spinal Surgery
- Spine Decompression
- Spine Reconstruction
- Spine Tumor Removal and Reconstruction
- Spine Tumor Surgery
- Thoracic Spine Surgery
Specialty in Diseases & Conditions
- Cervical Myelopathy
- Cervical Tumors
- Herniated Disc
- Infection of the Spine
- Lumbar Radiculopathy
- Radiculopathy
- Sciatica
- Spinal Cancer
- Spinal Stenosis
- Spine Tumors
- Spondylolisthesis
Insurance
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View All PlansAbout Richard Schlenk, MD
Education & Professional Highlights
Appointed
2003
Education & Fellowships
Fellowship - Cleveland Clinic
Spinal Surgery
Cleveland,
OH USA
2003
Residency - University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-University Hospital
Neurosurgery
Newark,
NJ USA
2002
Internship - University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-University Hospital
General Surgery
Newark,
NJ USA
1997
Medical Education - UMDNJ - New Jersey Medical School
Newark,
NJ USA
1995
Undergraduate - Kean University
Union,
NJ USA
1991
Professional Highlights
- Neurosurgery Residency Training Program Director
Certifications
- Neurological Surgery
Specialty Interests
Complex Spinal Reconstruction, Spinal Tumors
Awards & Honors
- Scholarship in Teaching Award 2008
- Teacher of the Year, 2004-05, 2005-06
- Mayfield Award in Spinal Cord Research
- American Red Cross Hero, 2004
Memberships
- American Board of Neurological Surgeons: Diplomat
- American Association of Neurological Surgeon: Member
- Congress of Neurological Surgeon: Member
- AANS/CNS Joint Spine Section: Member
Research & Publications
See publications for Richard Schlenk, 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 8/19/2022, Dr. Schlenk 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.
279 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 | 4.8 | |
Listens | 4.9 | |
Courtesy, Respect & Concern | 4.9 | |
Patient Rating of Doctor | 4.8 |
61 Patient Comments
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Reviewed on Aug 17, 2023
The doctor took time and explained everything very well.
Reviewed on Aug 17, 2023
Doctor Schlenk came highly recommended by another CCF doctor. After my visits, I agree with that recommendation.
Reviewed on Aug 10, 2023
I am very grateful to Dr. Schlenk for his surgical skills, his straight forward communication and his bedside manner.
Reviewed on Aug 10, 2023
My experience was Awesome ! The entire staff were personable and very professional.I felt very comfortable talking and interacting with everyone involved in my care .Dr . Schlenk answered all of my questions and he addressed our concerns about the surgery.My husband and I feel confident in his ability to care for me .Thank you so much !
Reviewed on Aug 8, 2023
Dr. Schlenk was wonderful!
Reviewed on Jul 18, 2023
Truly a caring provider
Reviewed on Jul 18, 2023
The finest care provider on my team
Reviewed on Jul 6, 2023
Dr Schlenk is a caring, thorough Doctor. I felt good when I left.
Reviewed on Jul 6, 2023
Dr Schlenk is outstanding, wonderful bedside manner. Honest, explains things very well. The Fellow I spoke with also excellent
Reviewed on Jun 29, 2023
Dr Schlenk is the BEST HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Reviewed on Jun 22, 2023
Dr. Schenk was absolutely wonderful , He's very personable, professional and caring .I was nervous about the surgery, but he explained every aspect of the surgery including the risk and the usual outcomes.I feel so much better and I have confidence that the surgery is going to go well .
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023
Everyone was very helpful, the process was smooth, and Dr Schlenk was expert, courteous and forthright.
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023
Dr. Schlenk is a very honest, humble yet confident person. He is also kind
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023
The doctor made me feel like he cared about me as if I was a relative
Reviewed on Jun 15, 2023
I could not ask for better. Dr. Schlenk is an amazing doctor. He is kind and compassionate in addition to being highly skilled. He listens and never makes you feel like he is too busy for you, even though I know he is a very busy man. I am so thankful to have found him. Likewise, his PA and nurse are also very kind and compassionate and always helpful.
Reviewed on Jun 15, 2023
The doctor was outstanding and discussed problems with me.
Reviewed on Jun 15, 2023
Dr was prepared and direct
Reviewed on Jun 15, 2023
I had an award winning surgery. Dr. Schlenk eliminated terrible hip pain that I had for 15 years.
Reviewed on Jun 8, 2023
Excellent physician
Reviewed on Jun 8, 2023
Dr. Schlenk and his staff are wonderful
Reviewed on May 18, 2023
Dr Schlenk was my surgeon for a low back injury. He is one of the kindest and most capable and knowledgeable doctors I have ever met!
Reviewed on May 16, 2023
I felt very "heard" by Dr Schlenk
Reviewed on May 16, 2023
Dr. Schlenk has a compassionate, caring manner. He is open to other forms for treatment besides surgery. He listens attentively and wants what is best for the person under his care.
Reviewed on May 9, 2023
Dr was most impressive with how he handled my situation. Explained his course completely and thoroughly. Very pleased!
Reviewed on Apr 20, 2023
Dr. Schlenk Is exceptional in analyzing and explaining my ruptured disc problem. His game plan for treatment is also conservative and impressive. His assistant Rachel was also amazing in testing and evaluating my current condition. Their attention to detail and compassion is very assuring.
Reviewed on Apr 6, 2023
Dr Schlenk is the best. I would rate him 6. For Excellent.
Reviewed on Apr 4, 2023
Dr. Schlenk was a second opinion on a very serious surgical procedure, possibly two. I'm truly glad that I got his opinion because it weighs heavily on the path I may take in the near future.
Reviewed on Mar 30, 2023
Love Dr. Schlenk
Reviewed on Mar 16, 2023
Dr Schlenk was excellent. Great bedside manner, very calm, yet confident and humble. Did not push surgery for me at this time, but told me how best to handle my lower back and hip pain. I highly recommend Dr. Schlenk and would definitely go to him if I ever need back surgery.
Reviewed on Mar 16, 2023
Best hospital experience of my 66 year life. Helpful, accommodating staff, very punctual, Dr Schlenk was a wonderful listener, provided excellent guidance and professional evaluation along with options and insights. I couldn't have asked for more, worth every mile of travel from Columbus. When I get to the point I need fusion, he will be the man I request.
Reviewed on Mar 16, 2023
Plan to have my fusion performed there by Dr Schlenk
Reviewed on Mar 16, 2023
Dr Schlenk was very pleasant, respectful and highly experienced. I was very glad that he took the time and explained everything that we wanted to hear and more .
Reviewed on Mar 9, 2023
Dr. Schlenk explained everything to me about my condition. It was such a relief. I will definitely see him again if needed he's great!!!
Reviewed on Mar 7, 2023
Dr. Shlenck was very helpful regarding my back discomfort
Reviewed on Mar 7, 2023
Doctor Richard Schlenk was outstanding. He had so much compassion and kindness, and his ability to listen to my history of back surgeries and what I have gone through speaks volumes of the man and surgeon he is. I was truly blessed by this man and so thankful he was the doctor I met with. I do not think I have ever experienced a doctor with his level of compassion and kindness. Understand, until that appointment, I had never met Dr. Schlenk before, but if I ever need to see a doctor for my back again, I will want it to be Dr. Schlenk. He is outstanding in so many ways. I had a tremendous visit due to him and he represents Cleveland Clinic at the highest level. My thanks to this wonderful doctor.
Reviewed on Mar 7, 2023
I have already been sharing my outstanding experience I had that day with Dr. Richard Schlenk and the staff.
Reviewed on Mar 7, 2023
*Dr. Schlenk took the time to thoroughly explain my MRI, along with treatment options. He truly provided exceptional service and patient care.
Reviewed on Mar 2, 2023
Dr. Schenk is the best
Reviewed on Feb 23, 2023
I was very impressed with the amount of time that was spent with me by the staff & Dr Schlenk. They were very thorough .
Reviewed on Feb 21, 2023
Dr. Schlenk was great professional easy to talk to and very thorough in his explanations and very patient
Reviewed on Feb 16, 2023
I really appreciated the time Dr spent with me trying to help me make decisions. Thanks so much.
Reviewed on Feb 9, 2023
Good experience. Pleased that CC provides learning opportunities to new doctors
Reviewed on Feb 9, 2023
Dr. Schlenk and his team went above and beyond my expectations. He genuinely cared about my well being and he and his team gave me their full attention during my appointments. As someone who was very anxious about this surgery, I couldn't have had a better experience. I am very thankful to Dr. Schlenk for not only being a skilled neurosurgeon but also for being a good human and would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for a neurosurgeon.
Reviewed on Feb 7, 2023
The doctors discussed my condition in detail...
Reviewed on Feb 7, 2023
I would highly recommend Dr Schlenk.
Reviewed on Feb 2, 2023
Dr Schlenk is an incredible surgeon! He included my thoughts on the decision making of my care while explaining the need! I'd recommend him to anyone in need of neurosurgery!
Reviewed on Jan 24, 2023
My visit with Dr.Shlenk went very well and we decided that surgery was not the best choice at this particular time . I think the meeting went very well . I respect his professional input very highly .
Reviewed on Jan 19, 2023
Dr. Schlenk is wonderful!!!
Reviewed on Jan 3, 2023
Doctor and resident were both outstanding. Every doctor should handle their patients like both individuals did. Took the time to explain all options and possible results, did not rush to operate! Pro and cons explain in detail and given time to decide which direction I want to take.
Reviewed on Jan 3, 2023
Dr. Schlenk is WONDERFUL. He listens, thinks about what you tell him, thinks about his response, asks more questions to clarify if needed, and then answers in a manner that includes your question and answers your question, providing potential options to you. I never leave an appointment with Dr. Schlenk not understanding what he has told me .
Reviewed on Jan 3, 2023
The care provided by Dr. Schlenk is exceptional.
Reviewed on Dec 22, 2022
I would definitely recommend Dr. Schlenk and the CCF.
Reviewed on Dec 20, 2022
Exceptional care provided by Dr. Schlenk....very concerned for me and my condition....immediately reached out to another surgeon for further evaluation....highly knowledgeable and passionate medical professional....analytically minded....consummate professional....empathetic and kind person.
Reviewed on Dec 6, 2022
The doctor was friendly but serious. A true expert and professional. He took time to answer every question and asked for my thoughts. I felt like he truly cared for me and my health.
Reviewed on Nov 22, 2022
I was impressed!! This doctor was like NO other doctor I've ever been to. He's extremely compassionate!!!!
Reviewed on Nov 3, 2022
Being able to see Dr. Schlenk at the Twinsburg clinic was definitely good for me since I travel around 6 hours from the south for my appointment.
Reviewed on Nov 1, 2022
Dr Schlenk is awesome!
Reviewed on Oct 20, 2022
I have been a patient of Dr. Schlenk since 2015. He has always been sensitive to my physical and emotional issues. He gives me in-depth explanations of my condition and treatment options. His treatment recommendations are specific to my situation and given in my best interests. He is one of the kindest most caring physicians that I have ever known.
Reviewed on Sep 29, 2022
Dr Schlenk is very patient and explains thoroughly
Reviewed on Sep 22, 2022
Dr. Schlenk and his PA, treated me with the utmost respect and concern, listening intently to me, as I listened intently to them. I did not get the answer I had hoped for, but I understood what Dr. Was explaining to me, and the risks indicated in any surgical intervention. He did NOT focus on my obesity (which is a problem for me mentally and physically) but all of the reasons that make my case High Risk. I felt that Dr. Schlenk treated me with compassion, and caring of my situation. He did not treat me as "an old women, who sits in her chair with cats on her lap". I cried a bit, as I had hoped for better news, but I am positive in my knowledge that he gave to me. I do have questions, that I did not think of at the time, and will be scheduling a Virtual Appt. Soon, to ask those questions. As a retired Medical Professional, I was able to follow what he explained to me, as well as accepting the information. I look forward to the Virtual Appointment.
Reviewed on Sep 6, 2022
Doctor very honest and to the point...