Stephen A. Rich, MD

For individuals in the Murfreesboro, Tennessee area exploring options within the "Heart Doctor Near Me" platform category, it is important to clarify that the services provided by Dr. Stephen A. Rich, MD, located at DePaul Building, 1800 Medical Center Pkwy #440, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, USA, as indicated by the available patient reviews, primarily focus on bariatric surgery, specifically gastric bypass, rather than general cardiology. While obesity can be a significant risk factor for heart disease, Dr. Rich's expertise lies in surgical weight management. Therefore, for local users seeking a "Heart Doctor Near Me" in the context of cardiac conditions, Dr. Rich's specialization may be relevant if weight loss is a recommended part of their cardiac care plan, or if they are seeking to address obesity to improve overall heart health.

The overwhelmingly positive testimonials from Dr. Rich's patients highlight his exceptional skills, compassionate care, and the transformative impact of his work. One patient, two years post-operation, expresses profound gratitude: "I am truly blessed to have taken this pathway to better my health. I am grateful for Dr. Rich and his staff. They're exceptional!" This statement underscores the life-changing potential of the procedures Dr. Rich performs and the high regard in which he and his team are held by their patients.

Another patient emphasizes the challenging yet ultimately rewarding nature of the journey: "Before and after pictures are attached. The process isn't easy, but it's worth the pain and sacrifice." The mention of visual evidence ("before and after pictures") powerfully illustrates the significant physical transformations achieved under Dr. Rich's care. This suggests that Dr. Rich is adept at guiding patients through the entire surgical process, acknowledging the difficulties involved while emphasizing the long-term benefits.

The remarkable outcome of one patient's surgery is clearly stated: "I am 120 pounds lighter." This quantifiable result speaks directly to the effectiveness of Dr. Rich's surgical expertise and the potential for substantial weight loss and improved health outcomes for his patients.

The patient who underwent gastric bypass on December 18th, 2024, at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital, provides further details about the overall experience: "I had my gastric bypass on December 18th, 2024 at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital and my time there was absolutely amazing." This positive feedback extends beyond the surgical procedure itself to encompass the entire hospital experience, suggesting a supportive and well-managed environment for bariatric patients.

This same patient also commends Dr. Rich's communication and bedside manner: "Dr. Rich and his team explained each and every step before it happened. He explained what to expect when I woke up from the surgery." This highlights Dr. Rich's commitment to ensuring that patients are well-informed and prepared for their surgical journey, reducing anxiety and fostering trust. The detailed explanations provided by Dr. Rich and his team are crucial for patient comfort and confidence.

The caring and compassionate attitude of Dr. Rich is a recurring theme in the patient's review: "His caring and compassionate attitude was something that really stood out. He has a big heart and cares for his patients." This personal touch is invaluable in building a strong doctor-patient relationship and can significantly impact a patient's overall experience and recovery. The description of him having a "big heart" and genuinely caring for his patients reinforces the positive sentiments expressed by other reviewers.

The final recommendation from this patient is unequivocal: "I highly recommend Dr. Rich and his amazing team." This strong endorsement, based on a recent surgical experience, further solidifies Dr. Rich's reputation as an exceptional bariatric surgeon.

Based on these reviews, the environment associated with Dr. Rich's practice is primarily within the context of St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital, where the surgical procedures are performed. Patients can likely expect a modern medical facility equipped for bariatric surgery and post-operative care. The DePaul Building address likely serves as his clinic for consultations, pre-operative evaluations, and follow-up appointments. The atmosphere within his clinic and the hospital setting, as suggested by the reviews, is one of professionalism, clear communication, and compassionate patient care.

The services provided by Dr. Stephen A. Rich, MD, as evidenced by the patient reviews, center around bariatric surgery, specifically:

• **Gastric Bypass Surgery:** A surgical procedure that helps patients lose weight by creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing a portion of the small intestine.
• **Pre-operative Evaluation and Counseling:** Comprehensive assessments and discussions to determine patient eligibility for surgery and to prepare them for the process.
• **Detailed Explanation of the Surgical Process:** Ensuring patients understand each step involved before, during, and after the surgery.
• **Post-operative Care and Follow-up:** Monitoring patient recovery, managing any complications, and providing long-term support for weight management.

The features that stand out regarding Dr. Rich include:

• **Exceptional Surgical Skills:** Evidenced by significant weight loss and positive outcomes reported by patients.
• **Compassionate and Caring Attitude:** Patients consistently highlight his empathy and genuine concern for their well-being.
• **Clear and Thorough Communication:** Ensuring patients are well-informed at every stage of their journey.
• **Dedicated and Exceptional Staff:** Working collaboratively to provide comprehensive patient support.
• **Positive Patient Outcomes:** Leading to improved health and quality of life for his patients.

Given the focus on bariatric surgery, it is important for individuals seeking a "Heart Doctor Near Me" for general cardiac issues to consult with a cardiologist specializing in those areas. However, for patients whose cardiac health would significantly benefit from weight loss, or those specifically seeking bariatric surgery, Dr. Rich's expertise and the positive experiences of his patients make him a highly recommended option in the Murfreesboro area.

Currently, there is no specific promotional information available in the provided text for Dr. Stephen A. Rich, MD. For inquiries about consultations, specific surgical procedures offered, insurance coverage, or any informational seminars or programs related to bariatric surgery, it is recommended to contact his office directly at (615) 867-1940 or +1 615-867-1940. His staff will be able to provide detailed information and assist with scheduling.

In conclusion, while Dr. Stephen A. Rich, MD, specializes in bariatric surgery rather than general cardiology, his exceptional skills, compassionate care, and the transformative outcomes reported by his patients make him a highly recommended surgeon for individuals in the Murfreesboro area considering weight loss surgery to improve their overall health, which can have significant positive impacts on cardiovascular health. For those specifically seeking a "Heart Doctor Near Me" for cardiac conditions unrelated to weight management, consulting with a cardiologist would be the more appropriate course of action. However, for bariatric needs, Dr. Rich and his team at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital offer exceptional care and support.