Dr. Robert J. Downey, MD | New York, NY | Thoracic Surgery

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I am a chest surgeon who specializes primarily in the treatment of three groups of patients: those with lung cancer, those with cancers that have spread to the lung from other sites, and those with tumors that arise from structures in the chest other than the lung, such as the thymus gland or the chest wall.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

1275 York AveNew York, NY 10065

accepting new patients
4.1

20 Ratings
41 years of experience
30 insurance plans accepted
speaks English
Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center
9 written reviews
3 specialties
11 areas of expertise
2 board certifications
1 hospital affiliation
1 office location
Male

Gave an accurate diagnosis
Had a good bedside manner
Spent time with me

Based on patient feedback. Read the reviews

Dr. Downey's Ratings and Reviews

4.1

20 Ratings with 9 written Reviews

Average Wait Time 17 Minutes

How was your appointment with
Dr. Downey?

Patients’ Perspective

Gave an accurate diagnosis: (8) Did WellNeeds Improvement (2)
Had a good bedside manner: (9) Did WellNeeds Improvement (2)
Spent time with me: (9) Did WellNeeds Improvement (2)
Provided follow-up after the visit: (9) Did WellNeeds Improvement (2)
Flexible scheduling: (9) Did WellNeeds Improvement (1)
Saw me in a timely manner: No Ratings
Staff was courteous: No Ratings

20 ratings & reviews

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Showing 1 to 9 of 9 reviews

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After multiple biopsies at another hospital without a clear diagnostic, I decided to switch to MSK under Dr.Downey’s care. Right from the start he is intellectually curious on my tumor. He made all the right biopsy and imaging tests to diagnostic my tumor to be Castleman Disease. During each of my visit, Dr.Downey clearly explained each of the steps and I felt very confident in MSK through Dr.Downey. Dr.Downey referred me to his colleague Dr. Rusch to perform a robotic surgery since it will help me with my recovery and my surgery is a perfect fit for robotic. Dr.Downey spend close to 6 hours observe Dr. Rusch’s perform surgery to remove my large tumor. Afterward, Dr.Downey told me that he learned a lot observing Dr. Rusch’s robotic surgery. For a very experienced senior surgeon to said that, I felt Dr.Downey’s compassion and humbleness toward his patients and his desire to improve as a surgeon. I am very grateful and lucky to be under Dr.Downey’s care.

March 15th, 2021

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DR DOWNEY EMBODIES ALL OF THE HUMANISTIC QUALITIES YOU WOULD WANT TO FIND IN A PHYSICIAN. BEYOND THAT, HE IS AN OUTSTANDING SURGEON AFFILIATED WITH A WORLD-RENOWNED CANCER HOSPITAL. HE SUCCESSFULLY TREATED MY WIFE AND THREE OTHER PEOPLE WE KNOW. DO NOT EVEN THINK OF SEEING ANYONE ELSE FOR LUNG CANCER-RELATED ILLNESS.

July 24th, 2019

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Since my surgery in 2011 through now, Dr Downey has been patient and willing to explain and answer all my questions. I find him caring and with a sense of humor which to me is essential in any physician I must rely on.

February 14th, 2019

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Dr, Downey is a remarkable doctor! His knowledge and expertise is amazing which is complimented by his caring and compassionate attitude.No one ever wants to see a doctor for cancer, but if you must Dr. Downey is the one you want on your side! Dr. Downey is just the kind of MD that you would be looking for if you needed his expertize. He is kind, caring and best of all up to date on all and every aspect of his field! Great guy! . I would recommend him to my dearest friends, without reservation. He save my life two time. WE LOVE YOU- DOCTOR FROM GOD!

May 13th, 2016

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If you want a doctor who cares about the patient and not his own ego and self-glorification, go elsewhere.

July 13th, 2015

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When we met Dr. Downey spoke to me and my family simply, explaining my circumstance, detailed the treatment plan, honestly informed me of what I was about to face, and took all the necessary time I needed. He followed my progress while under Chemotherapy, and succeeded in curing me. I would recommend him to my dearest friends, without reservation.

September 19th, 2013

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Dr. Downey saved my life . I showed up with lung cancer After the diagnosis he gave me a choice of extending my Life with Chemo and radiation or cure me with what was Very risky surgery. It wasn't easy with my body not cooperating With multiple infections but one year later I am cancer free And living my life that I wouldn't have if not for Dr.Downey! God bless you sit you are the best!

July 27th, 2013

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Dr, Downey is a remarkable doctor! His knowledge and expertise is amazing which is complimented by his caring and compassionate attitude.No one ever wants to see a doctor for cancer, but if you must Dr. Downey is the one you want on your side!

June 13th, 2012

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Dr. Downey is just the kind of MD that you would be looking for if you needed his expertize. He is kind, caring and best of all up to date on all and every aspect of his field! Great guy!

February 9th, 2011

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Accepts Medicare
Accepts Medicaid
Aetna
Aetna Medicare Advantage (City of NY retirees only starting 9/1/23)
Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program
Blue Cross Blue Shield New York
Blue Cross Blue Shield states outside of NY/NJ
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Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield New Jersey Omnia Tier I (EPO)
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield New Jersey Omnia Tier II (EPO)
Horizon Medicare Advantage
Husky CT Medicaid
MagnaCare

Aneurysm
Bronchoscopy
Cancer
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Diabetes Complications
Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma (Asbestos-related Cancer)
Oncologist
Thoracic Surgeon
Varicose Veins
Vascular Malformations

MEDICAL LICENSE

Medical Doctor, New Jersey, 2025, Expired

Medical Doctor, New York, 2025, Inactive

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Fellowship

Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center1994

Mayo Clinic1992

Residency

Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center1991

Medical School

Columbia UniversityGraduated in 1985

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Which hospitals is Dr. Robert Downey affiliated with?: Dr. Robert Downey is affiliated with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Does Dr. Robert Downey accept virtual/telehealth appointments?: Yes, Dr. Robert Downey accepts virtual/telehealth appointments. Click the virtual visit button on their Vitals profile.
How can I make an appointment with Dr. Robert Downey?: You can find contact information for Dr. Robert Downey here on Vitals.
Does Dr. Robert Downey accept my insurance?: You can see the insurance plans that Dr. Robert Downey accepts on their Vitals profile.
Is Dr. Robert Downey accepting new patients?: Dr. Robert Downey is accepting new patients on Vitals. View Dr. Robert Downey's profile on Vitals to make an appointment.

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