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Dr. Shelby Dames, MD

Dr. Shelby Dames, MD

Rheumatology*

Dr. Shelby Dames, MD is a rheumatologist in Pella, IA. Dr. Dames has extensive experience in Osteoporosis & Screening. She is affiliated with medical facilities Grinnell Regional Medical Center and Pella Regional Health Center. She is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

3.1 Star Rating
Based on 41 reviews 3.1 Star Rating (41 reviews)

Practice

404 Jefferson St Pella, IA 50219
Telehealth available

At a Glance

  • Area of Expertise
    Dr. Dames specializes in the area of Rheumatology. See board certifications
  • Offers Telehealth
    This doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Hospital Satisfaction
    Patients said they were highly satisfied at this doctor's hospital. See hospitals
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Dr. Dames' Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Dames

3.1
41 ratings, 23 with a written review
5 star
49%
49%
4 star
2%
2%
3 star
2%
2%
2 star
7%
7%
1 star
39%
39%

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Condescending
Always kept us waiting over an hour. Told us about the tons of paper work she copied on him. This is her job ! Didn’t she prepare before we came? Asked her nurse to come in and ask us questions. Then she asked us the same. Very accusatory if we didn’t send records or follow her many instructions in all the paperwork she sent home. Treated us like children. Just couldn’t seem to get to any decision. Made us feel inferior and anxious with each visit. We cut ties with her and will go somewhere else. Very toxic atmosphere.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Jim Christianson – Feb 05, 2025
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She Great until she Decides your Not worth her tim
My husband went to Dr. Dames for over a year. I attended almost every visit with him. We welcomed her blunt, straightforward demeanor. We are not a candy coat beat around the bush kind of people. So we always meshed very well with Dr. Dames. That is until your views do not align with hers. The moment that you do not agree with her treatment plan or challenge what she is doing, she turns on you. She has a superiority complex, that is for sure. I see this very often in doctors who feel that they have to control everything. They need to understand. They are not in control, the patient is. They are hired to do a job. If the person who hired you doesn't like how you're doing the job, then you're fired. It's pretty simple. If you are someone who never questions your doctor than Dr. Dames will be ok for you. If you do extensive research into your condition to kake sure your educated so you make informed choices about your healthcare maybe not a good idea.
What went well
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Kristal – Feb 18, 2024
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Missed 3 autoimmune diseases
What stood out about my appointment was how rudely I was addressed, and yelled at to go away and not come back.I didn’t receive x ray reports. They would have shown extensive inflammatory arthritis.I have had a lupus rash for at least 7 years.I tested positive for ankylosing spondylitis. If you are easy and she can make money off infusions, it looks like she treats people.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • 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
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Oct 16, 2023
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Sought second opinion with Dr Dames in hopes that she would have imagination and answers for my bizarre symptoms that are tangible and measurable. I was instead told to lose weight and seek therapy. She spent my appointment time repeatedly stating that all of my symptoms are fictionalized, the fact that I was crying and giving her one word answers didn't stop her tirade. She quoted my previous rheumatologist almost verbatim. Narrow minded and not willing to investigate odd symptoms. Her physical assessment was extremely painful, she forced her fingers into every joint (having had 3 previous rheumatologists I know that's not how you assess joint swelling). I feel she is extremely cruel and not a very insightful clinician. I wouldn't send a cat to her.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
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
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
SJ – May 05, 2023
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Not great. I had symptoms of RA for a long time, multiple hand surgeries and other tendon surgeries. I was ANA Positive, so was referred to her soon after she started at the Iowa Clinic. She ran lots of blood tests, & RA was not confirmed. She was pretty sure I had Type 2 diabetes, & that it could be the culprit, so had me worried about that for a couple of weeks between appointments. However, my A1C was normal, & I did not actually have Type 2, so I worried for nothing. She didn't really address my RA symptoms, & was still focused on preventing diabetes. I felt that she missed the boat. I finally went to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. In addition to more blood tests, they did various scans of my body-very thorough MRI's, a full body scan, & x-rays. It was there that 3 different radiologists confirmed I had inflammatory arthritis in multiple joints--my knees, hips and hands. I am going to travel to the Mayo for continued care b/c they figured it out & RA doc was very helpful.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Jan 03, 2020
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Dr. Dames was my husband Steve Meske's Dr. when she was practicing in Ogden. She was caring and very helpful as he suffered with a debilitating disease. I was sorry to hear she had moved out of state as my sister is suffering from rheumatoid arthritis in her hands.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Michelle Meske – Dec 17, 2019
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I saw Dr. Dames for the first time a week ago. I was amazed at the amount of time she spent with me to thoroughly evaluate my condition. She truly listened, was caring and honest. I appreciate her being proactive in addressing my medical concerns. I also loved her nurse Rhonda. Rhonda called me two times within 2 days of my appointment to update me with lab reports. I would recommend Dr. Dames to anyone needing a rheumatologist.
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
Julia R. – Aug 14, 2019
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I recently transferred to Dr. Dames. I have seen her multiple times and each time she is honest but kind. I appreciate her authenticity and willingness to really help me. She considers multiple treatment options. She gave me hope and has helped me to substantially improve my quality of life. I would highly recommend her as a quality physician who has wonderful staff. You’ll be in good hands.
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
Catt in Dallas Center, IA – Jun 20, 2019
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I have been seeing Dr.Dames every month since March. She is one of the best doctors I have ever aeen. Extremely thorough, warm, answers all questions, very knowledgeable and caring. I trust her completely! I am a nurse so very picky about who I see. I cannot recommend her enough!
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
Debra Ford in Ames, IA – Jun 18, 2019
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Dr. Dames is very thorough and very caring with me and I can tell she is this way with her other patients. I started experiencing joint pain along with other things in November, went to my family doctor and was referred to Dr. Dames. I am so thankful that I was. She has helped me so much since seeing her in January. Love how she explains labs and xrays with me so I understand them!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mar 10, 2019
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Dr. Dames is thorough and very caring. It is evident that she is passionate about her patients and her practice. She spent a substantial amount of time with us and answered any and all questions we had. Would highly recommend her and her expertise.
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
Megan in West Des Moines, IA – Feb 13, 2019
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Dr. Dames is very thorough in explaining the reasoning for the tests and the test results and explains the diagnosis and how to proceed with my care. She remains available to answer any questions I might have.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jane Bowling – Feb 10, 2019
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My husband sees Dr. Dames for his psoriatic arthritis. I have gone to a few of his appointments with him so I can better understand his autoimmune disease and the direction of treatment. Dr. Dames does an amazing job thoroughly examining, listening and explaining everything from labs, x-rays to medications. We have tried alternative medicine because the synthetic medications seemed so terrifying before. Now, with better explanation and understanding, our next steps are clear and less stressful.
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
DexterFarm in Dexter, IA – Feb 09, 2019
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I had a wonderful experience with Dr Dames. She spent a great deal of time reviewing my medical history to be sure she really understood what was best for my medical care. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a Doctor who will listen, is knowledgeable and caring.
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
Cynde Cronin in ADEL, IA – Feb 09, 2019
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Dr. Dsmes was amazing. She say diener with ne and throughly went over all my medical history to get to know me better so she could treat me appropriately. She took the time to answer questions, listen, and really focus on my various issues. She was able to work with my dermatologist (I have psoriasis, which may correlate with my joint pain) to get labs and make sure I was on the right medication for both conditions. Ahe had amazing bedside manner and was very thorough. I would highly recommend.
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
Stacy in Des Moines, IA – Feb 08, 2019
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Having been diagnosed in the past six months with an autoimmune disease., I have been extremely satisfied with the care Dr Dames has given me. At the initial visi t she spent over two hours with me explaining the disease what to expect and the optional care she could give. Her empathy was and continues to be of great comfort. I can and will highly recommend her expertise"
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
Truman in IA – Feb 07, 2019
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Since the moment I’ve started working with Dr. Dames and her staff I have felt taken care of. She always takes the time to explain the why behind my treatment plan and I’ve never left with a question unanswered. Highly recommended!!
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
Des Moines, IA – Feb 06, 2019
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I met with Dr. Dames this morning and I can say it was the best experience I have had. She took time to talk with me, ask questions and explain things to me that had never been explained. I would highly recommend Dr. Dames. Thank you so much
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
Shelly Knudson in Des Moines – Feb 06, 2019
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Poor bedside manner. Would recommend another specialist.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • 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
Apr 15, 2018
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I have been seeing Dr Dames for almost 10 years. She really has taken my case to heart, and has expressed she her concerns very well. Great doctor, great person.
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
Cassidy in Ogden, UT – Jul 01, 2017
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About Me

biography

Shelby Dames, MD joined The Iowa Clinic after completing both her residency in internal medicine and rheumatology fellowship, at the University of Utah. Most recently, she practiced for twelve years at Intermountain Healthcare in Ogden, Utah, where...read more
  • Rheumatology

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

  • University Of Utah, Division Of Rheumatology

    Fellowship Hospital
  • University Of Utah, Internal Medicine

    Residency Hospital
  • University Of Iowa Carver College Of Medicine

    Medical School
  • University Of Colorado

    Undergraduate School
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Internal Medicine®
Rheumatology
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.

Locations

Practice

PRHC Dialysis404 Jefferson St Pella, IA 50219
1
Pella Medical Clinic405 Monroe St Pella, IA 50219
2

Practice

Ottumwa Medical Clinic920 N Quincy Ave Ottumwa, IA 52501
3

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Pella Regional Health Center

    404 Jefferson St
    Pella, IA 50219

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

    88%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home
    80%
    Patients who gave a rating of 9 or 10

    5% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Grinnell Regional Medical Center

    210 4th Ave
    Grinnell, IA 50112

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

    89%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% higher than the national average

    84%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    2% higher than the national average

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