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Dr. Howard Mertz, MD

Dr. Howard Mertz, MD

Gastroenterology*
35+ years of experience

Dr. Howard Mertz, MD is a gastroenterologist in Nashville, TN and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Mertz has extensive experience in Gastrointestinal Disorders, Pancreatic Disease, and Liver Disease. He graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in 1986. He is affiliated with TriStar Centennial Medical Center. He is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

3.4 Star Rating
Based on 54 reviews 3.4 Star Rating (54 reviews)

Locations

Nashville Gastrointestinal Specialists

Nashville Gastrointestinal Specialists4230 Harding Pike Ste 309 Nashville, TN 37205
1

Hospital Highlight

Dr. Mertz is affiliated with TriStar Centennial Medical Center Nashville, a highly rated and top awarded hospital for gastroenterology.

At a Glance

  • Areas of ExpertiseDr. Mertz specializes in the areas of Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine & Internal Medicine. See board certifications
  • Offers TelehealthThis doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Practices at Top HospitalAmerica’s 100 Best Hospitals for Gastrointestinal Care Award™ See hospitals
  • Hospital SatisfactionPatients said they were highly satisfied at this doctor's hospital. See hospitals

More Gastroenterology Specialists at TriStar Centennial Medical Center

Experience Check

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Dr. Mertz's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Mertz

3.4
54 ratings, 26 with a written review
5 star
57%
57%
4 star
4%
4%
3 star
2%
2%
2 star
0%
0%
1 star
37%
37%

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Very rude and degrading to me as the patient
My first and last visit needlessbto say. He acted as if I was bugging him by being there and stood the whole time. He cut me off at one point and said is there a reason we are having this conversation when the convo was about procedure complications he ordered and was made aware of right after the procedure and never got back with me or seemed concerned. He admitted he got my messages regarding this. Many things were said in a very rude dismissive manner and I left without discussing my results that I went for bc he would never let me get that far..and to top it all off he handed me some results from a scan and told me to Google it and fig it out. Just to name a few. So I don't recommend him to anyone. Let me emphasize this was my first time meeting him
What went well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mar 06, 2025
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I cannot say enough about how poorly Dr. Mertz treated my husband. Mertz was insensitive to his personal history, taking no time to understand his concerns re his procedure. I highly recommend the wonderful Dr. Shah! Brilliant, kind, concerned!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Staff friendliness
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Susan Jones – Feb 27, 2025
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As for me, a dataset of one…
I had an excellent experience with my recent procedure with Dr. Mertz. I guess everyone’s mileage may vary, but as for me, I highly recommend him.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Oct 31, 2024
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He is excellent. Been to him 5 times over the past 20 years. Always goes over all results with me & plans of action if needed.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Bruce – Oct 02, 2024
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Happy to be pain free.
Dr Mertz was very professional and knowledgeable. He diagnosed a ongoing painful condition that had been diagnosed incorrectly in the past. So thankful that I am feeling better and I would highly recommend him.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jul 13, 2024
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Understanding and helpful. Explained everything in detail to me and my family. Nurse is great.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
S Smith – Feb 02, 2024
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He will pacify you until you’re hospitalized.
Repeatedly mixed my LAB WORK, have numerous procedures being told there really was no point, then another specialist will come in to prove you DO in fact have organs failing. Do better, you went to SCHOOL for this. If you don’t want to deal with their ongoing problems then tell the patient rather than experimenting like they’re a guinea pig causing them further issues in the long run.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Patient – Oct 27, 2023
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Terribly rude. There are much nicer MD’s in Nashvi
Not sure what is his priorities are but it is not helping people.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Martina Doust – Jun 19, 2023
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Nice Doctor , Great Nurses!
The staff made me feel really comfortable. Very nice ladies! thanks John 7/8/22
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
John E Lawrence – Jul 09, 2022
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Disappointed by his rude behavior! Nashville has excellent providers.....please do yourself a favor and find another qualified GI specialist.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Long wait times
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Nov 23, 2021
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Absolutely no bedside manor. Rudely told my mom she had cancer while being wheeled back for surgery. She had no idea. Worst experience ever.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Chelsea – Oct 17, 2021
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Dr Mertz found a serious condition that led me to needing a liver transplant. I have an annual colonoscopy now and I've done them for more than 10 years. Everything about my clinic visits as well as my surgical procedures have been exceptionally well done. My wife works with him too and we both love him. He literally saved my life and I would recommend his services to anyone!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Barry Landis – Sep 05, 2021
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I have been a patient of Dr. Mertz for over 10 years and he is the greatest! I have never had any difficulties with scheduling appointments or any problems while there.He has tremendous manners and listens carefully to everything you have to say. He answers all your questions as well. I have had several appointments and procedures. He explains what you need and then sits down with you to go over the details. I would recommend him to anyone and everyone!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Woody McGlathery – Jul 08, 2021
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I don’t know what planet the folks who gave Dr. Mertz bad reviews are from, but I had a wonderful experience and am so glad to have found him! He is warm; friendly; highly knowledgeable, and thorough. Never did I feel rushed. He listened to my concerns, explained his plan of treatment going forward. He answered all my questions, making sure I understood procedures. His staff is great, especially his nurse, Stephanie. I did not have to wait long, either in the waiting room or the exam room. Front desk personnel were efficient & friendly. After struggling for years, I feel I have finally found someone who understands my Gastro problems and will help me overcome them … he’ll definitely do his best to do so!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
S Booth – May 26, 2021
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Have not one good thing to say. Will not let me post the truth about this doctor.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
One Pissed Chic – May 20, 2021
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Had a colonoscopy this morning, 2nd one in 7 years. Very smooth procedure
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
GEORGIE OSMENT – Jul 18, 2020
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Excellent physician- we were referred by our local docs; the patient after us by docs in Knoxville- this is the doctor that other doctors want to have. I am a physician, too, and Dr. Mertz is truly top notch. Very knowledgeable and explains everything really well, answers whatever questions you have patiently and thoroughly. The procedure that my husband had went well and Dr. Mertz spoke with us both before and after the procedure. Top rate physician. Very courteous, very thoughtful, very kind.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Barbara – Oct 16, 2019
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I wouldn't recommend this doctor at all. Condescending isn't even the word, he is just a rude doctor who thinks anyone who isn't a doctor is beneath him, always in a hurry. Really doesn't care about his patients as you can see from the gentlemen he told in these comments, I learned from your daughter. He has given nothing but rude answers to my family while my brother has been ill. If I could give you a minus score I would. From a sister who loves her brother very much
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
10 others found this helpful
Helpful
Feb 22, 2019
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Dr Mertz always listens intently and shows genuine interest in our conservations about my health and the decisions that follow. Questions are always answered fully, he’s never condescending, even when I ask a question I should know the answer to. I trust him completely. Additionally, Stephanie is a very important part of this practice. She gives excellent care, always returns calls as soon as possible, & while ALL staff are great, Stephanie definitely has a heart for making you feel important!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
6 others found this helpful
Helpful
Betty Miller in Clarksville, TN – Sep 21, 2018
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Outstanding personal care, enthusiastic demeanor, and sensitivity to the health of my entire body.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Pam – Mar 15, 2018
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About Me

care philosophy

Patient-Centered CareEmpathy and Respect: Treat each patient with compassion, recognizing their unique circumstances and emotions. Listen actively to their concerns and preferences.Shared Decision-Making: Involve patients in their care by discussing...read more

biography

Dr. Howard Mertz practices all aspects of gastroenterology, including endoscopic ultrasound and inflammatory bowel disease. Nashville Magazine's survey of local physicians rated Dr. Mertz in the top 85 physicians and top 3 gastroenterologists in...read more
  • Gastroenterology

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Los Angeles

    Fellowship Hospital
  • University Of California

    Fellowship Hospital
  • Johns Hopkins

    Residency Hospital
  • Johns Hopkins

    Internship Hospital
  • Baylor College Of Medicine

    Medical School, 1986
National Board of Physicians and Surgeons®
National Board of Physicians and Surgeons®
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Internal Medicine®
Internal Medicine
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.
  • English

  • Spanish

Affiliated Hospitals

  • TriStar Centennial Medical Center

    2300 Patterson St
    Nashville, TN 37203
    Recipient of 60
    hospital awards

    America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Gastrointestinal Care Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Superior clinical outcomes in bowel obstruction treatment, colorectal surgeries, gallbladder removal, and upper gastrointestinal surgery

    America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Gastrointestinal Surgery Award™ (2025, 2024)

    Superior clinical outcomes in bowel obstruction treatment, colorectal surgeries, gallbladder removal, and upper gastrointestinal surgery

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    84%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home
    82%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    6% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality