Contact
About Me
Certified Specialties
Internal Medicine - American Board of Internal Medicine
Faculty Appointments
Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine (Part-Time) - Department of Medicine, Primary Care Physicians (SMD)
Credentials
Residency & Fellowship
Residency, Internal Medicine, Rochester General Hospital. 1983 - 1985
Residency, Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center. 1982 - 1983
Residency, Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine -Office of Graduate Medical Education. 1981 - 1982
Internship, Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine -Office of Graduate Medical Education. 1980 - 1981
Education
MD | University of Rochester School of Medicine/Dentistry (USA). 1980
Ratings & Comments
At University of Rochester Medicine, we believe that patients should be empowered to make the right decisions regarding their personal healthcare. To do so, transparency is critical. URochester Medicine partners with Press Ganey, to survey our patients about all aspects of their care experience. We are now putting this pertinent information at your fingertips by displaying star ratings for our providers along with anonymous patient comments on our website. This will help you make better-informed choices about how and with whom you seek care. Click here to learn more about the surveys used to generate this vital information. Learn more about our survey process.
Ratings
Care provider's discussion of any proposed treatment (options, risks, benefits, etc.)
Likelihood of recommending this care provider to others
Explanations the care provider gave you about your problem or condition
Care provider's efforts to include you in decisions about your care
Concern the care provider showed for your questions or worries
Patient Comments
Dr. Symer continues to be outstanding in every category - so sorry to see him go/retire.
Apr 28, 2025
Dr Symer has always gone above & beyond; spending extra time, never in a hurry. I will miss him when he retires [...].
Apr 13, 2025
Except Dr. Symer is retiring. Hands down one of the best doctors I've ever been a patient of. He will be missed.
Apr 11, 2025
Eased my mind and. Assured me that I'd get a call with results and findings from test performed
Apr 10, 2025
Dr Symer has been superior in every regard. He is an exceptional listener, something that means a lot to me. He has always presented material in an engaging and collaborative way that makes me feel confident and comfortable with his knowledge and my contributions.
Mar 18, 2025
Wonderful, caring and considerate as he listens to my concerns and advises me in ways to improve my health.
Mar 16, 2025
Dr. Was very thorough and explained and listened to my questions and explained everything he was changing and why and offered new things to help my problems
Mar 09, 2025
The doctor considered my explanations of a med change, and advised me accordingly. I know he listens well and cares.
Mar 08, 2025
My care provider and I had wonderful conversations about my issues and care. All my questions were answered.
Mar 07, 2025
So knowledgeable about my personal being
Mar 05, 2025
I am very comfortable with Dr. Symer. I would and have referred people to him. The office knows me pretty well because I do not use my chart If I can help it.
Mar 03, 2025
Very happy with Dr Symer
Feb 23, 2025
Very competent and caring, respectful.
Feb 20, 2025
Excellent
Feb 16, 2025
I have always felt very comfortable with Dr Symer. He takes time to listen and include me in any treatment plan
Feb 09, 2025
Dr. Symer explained recent results to tests so that I was able to understand my condition,
Feb 06, 2025
Dr Symer is an excellent caregiver and compassionate counselor Borderline Philosopher.
Feb 06, 2025
Dr. Symer has always been very thorough and considerate.
Jan 27, 2025
Dr. Symer is a very kind, caring and respectful person. He listened to all my concerns and was able to put me at ease as to the next steps. Extremely professional.
Jan 24, 2025
Dr Symer is very conscientious of all my concerns I have and will continue to recommend him
Jan 14, 2025
I love Dr Symer he always listens and always know how to treat my diagnosis as to what I have going on
Jan 08, 2025
Our concerns were completely answered so that we could understand the progression of all of the future steps. He showed patience and concern for my well being.
Jan 05, 2025
Just love Dr. Symer
Dec 25, 2024
Dr. Symer s TLC for his patients is wonderful.
Dec 19, 2024
Dr Symer is very friendly, attentive and concerned. I will continue with him until he retires.
Dec 11, 2024
Doctor Symer is a fantastic physician who demonstrates empathy and compassion with every interaction.
Dec 07, 2024
Dr. Symer is an outstanding physician
Nov 30, 2024
Dr Symer continues to be the most outstanding medical professional I have ever interacted with. He listens intently, asks questions in such a way as to extract information that one may not readily offer, and is an outstanding practitioner. I appreciate his clinical expertise which he tempers with real-life advice.
Nov 30, 2024
Dr Symer is awesome!!
Nov 18, 2024
Dr. Symer is an excellent doctor.
Nov 12, 2024
Our provider is excellent . [...]
Nov 01, 2024
Dr Symer is extraordinary
Oct 02, 2024
Very good experience
Sep 30, 2024
Dr Symer is a kind, caring doctor. I am fortunate to have him as my primary doctor.
Sep 27, 2024
Dr. Symer has my complete trust.
Sep 24, 2024
Dr Symer has so much compassion
Sep 07, 2024
Everyone was courteous and knew how and what to do,
Sep 02, 2024
Dr Symer has been our physical for over 40 years. He's a warm compassionate caring knowledgeable provider. He always takes such good care of my husband and myself
Aug 31, 2024
Dr. Symer is a good listener as well as a skilled physician
Aug 25, 2024
Dr. Symer and his colleagues run the best URMC office in the network! Dr. Symer himself is extremely attentive, an excellent communicator and VERY knowledgeable about all areas of medicine.
Aug 24, 2024
Very good
Aug 17, 2024
Dr Symer is excellent!
Aug 13, 2024
Dr Symer, is a very good doctor,
Aug 12, 2024
Good
Aug 12, 2024
Dr. Symer and assistants were great
Aug 09, 2024
Dr. Symer is the best PCP I have ever had. He goes above and beyond and is patient and kind
Aug 04, 2024
Dr. Symer is professional, courteous, and personal.
Jul 28, 2024
Definitely
Jul 27, 2024
Very attentive, knowledgeable, and easy to speak with.
Jul 22, 2024
Love love love Dr Symer.
Jul 18, 2024
Dr. Symer is absolutely wonderful. He's caring, thorough, kind and knowledgeable. Every time I meet with him I'm reminded how lucky I am to have him as my doctor.
Jul 18, 2024
It is extremely easy to ask any questions or discuss any concerns with Dr Symer. He explains items that I can understand. Is very friendly and highly professional. Listens to and addresses any problems or concerns.
Jul 06, 2024
Dr. Symer is the best!
Jun 29, 2024
Dr. Symer is a very caring doctor. He takes time answer questions & concerns.
Jun 28, 2024
[...] Everything is good
Jun 28, 2024
Dr. Symer was terrific!
Jun 24, 2024
Very caring and attentive.
Jun 21, 2024
He addressed every one of my concerns fully, and visuals were used to help expand explanations. I felt personal concern from the doctor rather than cookie cutter treatment
Jun 15, 2024
All of them they are great I absolutely love Dr Symer
Jun 15, 2024
I love the people in this office and Dr Symer is the best!!!!!
Jun 15, 2024
[...] Sometimes I feel rushed. [...]
Jun 14, 2024
All good
Jun 13, 2024
Dr. Symer is a kind/sympathetic doctor! Would recommend to anyone!!
Jun 08, 2024
Dr. Symer is truly an asset to the medical profession! He is always kind, courteous, and most interested in the patients concerns above all else.
Jun 05, 2024
I am MOST SATISFIED
Jun 05, 2024
Dr Symer is terrific.
May 30, 2024
Good experience
May 26, 2024
Dr. Symer has been very good for me , but when I ask for a referral it didn't happen.
May 22, 2024
Dr Symer is the most compassionate, attentive PCP I have ever had! He is thorough and takes time to listen to all of my questions/concerns. Everyone on his staff is warm and welcoming.
May 19, 2024
Dr Symer is a knowledgeable and caring medical professional.
May 17, 2024
Stay the course
May 17, 2024
Dr Donald Symer is working hard at trying to help figure out why my labs and urine are showing red flags .
May 17, 2024
Dr. Donald Symer always listens and acknowledges all my concerns.
May 17, 2024
Dr. Symer continues to be an outstanding doctor and person. I'm blessed to have his care.
May 17, 2024
Everyone deserves great recognition.
May 11, 2024
Dr Symer is great. Knowledgeable, caring, friendly, empathetic.
May 08, 2024
Dr. Symer is attentive, courteous, knowledgeable and professional. He is current on my medical history and makes appropriate decisions regarding next steps.
May 03, 2024
Dr Symer made 2 referrals to specialists because of concerns I had today.
May 03, 2024
Dr Symer always hears my concerns and makes appropriate referrals. Hank, PA is available when Dr Symer is not available. Hank is excellent at diagnostics when I go in with a new concern.
May 03, 2024
[...] I am very satisfied with service rendered.
May 03, 2024
I can't express how much Dr Symer helps me take care of my health and several conditions that could be overwhelming. I count him as a blessing. He is knowledgeable and kind, always willing to listen and offer solid advice and support.
May 02, 2024
Doctor seemed rushed.
Apr 30, 2024
Give doctors more time with patients.
Apr 30, 2024
Very thorough
Apr 29, 2024
Always a good productive visit.
Apr 26, 2024
Highly Recommend.
Apr 24, 2024
[...] Have visited Dr Donald Symer for over 30 years.and will continue until he retires.
Apr 24, 2024
[...] No problems with actual office visits which are pleasant and informative.
Apr 24, 2024
[...] Office visits are fine.
Apr 24, 2024
Have had no negative experiences during office visits.
Apr 24, 2024
Dr, Symer is the ultimate BEST Doctor I'ver ever had and he definitely deserves to be recognized for his outstanding and excellent care that he provides to me and all of his patients! He always goes above and beyond no matter what it takes to get the job done! He cares deeply about his patients. I feel totally comfortable talking to him about anything and I never feel rushed when I'm with him. He represents the epitome of how every Doctor should be with their patients!!!
Apr 23, 2024
In my opinion, everything and everyone in that office does an outstanding job!!
Apr 23, 2024
Dr. Symer is absolutely amazing!! He is a very knowledgeable, thorough and compassionate Doctor and I'm so lucky to have him!!!!
Apr 23, 2024
He is a good listener and follows through.
Apr 19, 2024
Answered all of my questions
Apr 17, 2024
I have a relatively complex medical history and present conditions. Dr. Symer is always informed, compassionate, and competent.
Apr 13, 2024
EXCELENT!
Apr 12, 2024
We decided together that some pt would be helpful for my shoulder.
Apr 08, 2024
Dr. Symer listens and follows through on all concerns.
Apr 07, 2024
He is very conscientious about establishing a personal rapport with his patients.
Apr 07, 2024
Everything was perfect.
Mar 29, 2024
Dr Symer is the Best!!!I feel very confident in all his expertise about my health care.Always pleasant, an always caring.
Mar 29, 2024
[...] I would not consider leaving my wonderful Dr. Symer.
Mar 29, 2024
[...]. This office does things VERY well!
Mar 22, 2024
I truly trust Dr. Symer and his staff.
Mar 22, 2024
I look forward to seeing Dr. Symer, as he always listens and offers good advice.
Mar 22, 2024
The office was nice a clean and organized, the doctor and receptions were very nice [...].
Mar 15, 2024
Very lucky to have this team as part of my health care
Mar 13, 2024
Dr Symer always takes time to listen and inform
Mar 13, 2024
Dr Symer always listens
Mar 09, 2024
Very satisfied with the care given from this office.
Mar 08, 2024
Dr. Symer's instructions are clear and easy to understand and follow.
Mar 05, 2024
Dr. Symer, punctual.
Mar 05, 2024
Excellent visit and care
Feb 24, 2024
Dr Symer and staff are always helpful and caring. A great office show's positive leadership. Thanks for your support!
Feb 24, 2024
[...] All is good.
Feb 24, 2024
I don't know staff members names but all were wonderful. Dr. Symer is the best.
Feb 23, 2024
Best doctor ever.
Feb 23, 2024
Dr. Symer and his nurse are very thorough, informative and kind.
Feb 17, 2024
Again, high regard for these docs as caring, smart docs.
Feb 16, 2024
When unable to Dr. Symer, I have seen Dr. Wangender. I hold both of these doctors in very high regard.
Feb 16, 2024
Dr. Symer has always been excellent, caring, compassionate, knowledgeable.
Feb 16, 2024
Dr.Symer is the best!
Feb 15, 2024
I enjoy all the staff interactions in this practice and feel very lucky to have Dr Symer as part of my care team.
Feb 14, 2024
Dr Symer is very compassionate
Feb 14, 2024
Good office and Doctor
Feb 01, 2024
Dr. Symer is an excellent doctor as well as a personable individual.
Jan 27, 2024
He is excellent!
Jan 24, 2024
Dr. Symer always shows the most Care and understanding possible! He is wonderful!
Jan 24, 2024
Great practice
Jan 22, 2024
Excellent, very thorough physical exam.
Jan 20, 2024
No bad experiences.
Jan 18, 2024
Do not feel rushed at my appointments. Dr. Symer answers all questions re: care.
Jan 18, 2024
Dr Symer is very kind, super knowledgeable , open with his personal experience and exhibited a compassion I hope everyone can receive from any medical interaction. Trust is an appropriate one word answer. Thanks for that.
Jan 14, 2024
Couldn't have been more pleasant or professional. Even though my name is [...] on paper, everyone knew that I am called [...]. I was pleasantly surprised.
Jan 14, 2024
I always feel like I am in good hands visiting Dr Symer's office. He covers all the bases.
Jan 13, 2024
I was happy with everything!
Jan 13, 2024
He is an excellent doctor concerned about every aspect of you .. He is firm, kind, honest, and he is great to our family great
Jan 12, 2024
I would follow my doctor, me and my family anywhere in Monroe county. He is very attentive and very smart. Have a good day.
Jan 12, 2024
Dr. Symer is the best.
Jan 06, 2024
Dr Symer is an outstanding, caring physician that is always concerned about my medical needs.
Dec 27, 2023
I was a new patient to Dr Symer. Everyone that I met were welcoming, professional and readily answered my questions
Dec 23, 2023
Dr Symer and entire staff is excellent and attentive and kind
Dec 21, 2023
So far all good.
Dec 16, 2023
I appreciate the thoughtful and kind response to my medical needs provided by Dr.Symer.
Dec 16, 2023
DrSymer is a very kind and compassionate provider.
Dec 16, 2023
I have been a patient of Dr Donald Symer for many years. Excellent treatment and care provided.
Dec 15, 2023
Dr. Symer is empathetic, and approachable. That's a winning combination for a provider in my book.
Dec 13, 2023
Dr Symer is excellent in every way. And the staff is very professional and friendly.
Dec 12, 2023
Dr Symer is honestly the most exceptional provider I have ever dealt with for my health care and for that of loved ones. His empathic, but professional demeanor are such a welcome change from most overworked, understaffed and cold providers in the field. He is an excellent clinician, who holistically takes into consideration each patient's unique life events and concerns when determining the best course of action for treatment. He does so with astute reasoning, clinical expertise and his heart. I cannot express my appreciation for having such a wonderful practitioner.
Dec 11, 2023
Every aspect of UR Medicine sets it above the rest. From making an appointment, to the office staff and physicians [...] I feel fortunate to be a part of your health system. As someone who works in health care (for the competitor), I can tell you, I feel very fortunate to be in your system. My thanks and gratitude for your attention to every detail.
Dec 11, 2023
[...]. UR Medicine is simply the best.
Dec 11, 2023
This visit was by phone. Dr. Symer took immediate action to confirm that my CT chest scan was approved. He was very prompt in his action to call my health insurance provider and obtain an answer for me.
Dec 11, 2023
The Doctor paid great attention to my concerns and worked with me on developing a treatment approach. Thank you!
Dec 11, 2023
Dr Symer always listens carefully to what I have to say. I'm impressed that he is educated on the latest trends in health care.
Dec 11, 2023
Dr Symer is wonderful. We've been his patients for over 40 years following him whenever he goes. He's very compassionate, helpful and knowledgeable. Can't say enough positive things about him!! The office staff is always very professional and friendly.
Dec 11, 2023
All good. Donald Symer is a top of the line primary care physician.
Dec 10, 2023
Fine as it is.
Dec 10, 2023
Dr. Symer is excellent. He is always attentive, courteous and thorough. He is the ideal physician. The U of R is lucky to have him!
Dec 10, 2023
Appreciate the great care! Thanks!
Dec 10, 2023
He is committed to very prompt action when a health problem flares up. Never leaves me anxious that he's not caring.
Dec 08, 2023
Dr. Symer is a good doctor who listens to me.
Dec 08, 2023
Dr Symer is excellent in all areas. I feel privileged/lucky to have him as my primary care physician.
Dec 08, 2023
I always look forward to seeing Dr. Symer and his staff. I know that I'll be seen promptly and trust the care I get. Thanks.
Dec 07, 2023
Keep doing what you're doing.
Dec 07, 2023
Dr. Symer and his nurses all were great!
Dec 07, 2023
Dr. Symer and his staff always act in a professional and compassionate manner.
Dec 07, 2023
Excellent care from Dr Symer and his team!
Dec 07, 2023
Continue excellent care!
Dec 07, 2023
All good
Dec 07, 2023
Dr.Symer, all of the staff are always wonderful to deal with.Dr. Alleles, Dr. Bilko both provided an excellent experience
Dec 06, 2023
Dr. Symer Is excellent.
Dec 06, 2023
Dr Symer is always responsive to written questions on the My Chart site. I have an answer with 1 day .
Dec 06, 2023
Dr, Symer is the best of the best in every aspect of his knowledge/experience, caring. Follow up, etc. There is no one I have found better.
Dec 06, 2023
Keep doing what your doing!
Dec 06, 2023
I am so grateful for Dr. Symer. I wish I could clone him. He is really to kind of doctor every person would want to have. I am so lucky to have found him and I will be his patient until the end of my time! I hope he is appreciated and treasured because he is a gem and a wonderful doctor and person!
Dec 06, 2023
Care has always been excellent with a lot of attention to detail in regard to blood work and overall health.
Oct 10, 2023
Keep doing what you're doing.
Oct 10, 2023
Dr Symer appeared to be extremely rushed and spent less than 10 minutes with me. He did apologize to me that he only had a few minutes allotted to me on his schedule, which given my numerous health Issues was clearly not enough. As a result, there was Insufficient time to discuss some of my issues and questions with him.
Sep 27, 2023
Great the way it is
Sep 26, 2023
Dr Symer is very caring & respectful
Sep 26, 2023
All good thanks
Sep 23, 2023
Very good experience for sure. Doctor was very engaging
Sep 23, 2023
Excellent care and concern especially for my newly found back problem.
Sep 22, 2023
No complaints.
Sep 20, 2023
Dr. Symer has dealt with all of my issues and he has referred me to all necessary specialists for further testing.
Sep 20, 2023
I have consistently praised the service I receive because it is always excellent.
Sep 19, 2023
Dr. Symer treats me with utmost respect and he listens VERY attentively.
Sep 19, 2023
Always takes time with me, and answers my questions and concerns
Sep 10, 2023
Dr. Symer is very "present," attentive, and professional. Hank Wengender is a terrific asset to the practice!
Aug 28, 2023
This practice is one of the best I have ever been to. Their compassion and caring goes above and beyond.
Aug 26, 2023
All is well. Folks are all attentive.
Aug 24, 2023
Dr. Symer was very knowledgeable and skillful in handling my Lithium prescription intake in dealing with my sleepiness, drooling, and tremors.
Aug 24, 2023
Dr. Symer always listens to concerns. He examines me and follows up on previous issues. He respects my opinion as well.
Aug 23, 2023
Dr Symer is very caring & easy to talk to.
Aug 23, 2023
[...] Everyone that works there is great. [...]
Aug 18, 2023
Dr. Symer ALWAYS listens well to my concerns. He also treats my mom, and he spends a lot of time listening to her, as well (I often attend the appts with her).I would rate him as one of the best PCP's in Rochester.
Aug 18, 2023
I feel comfortable coming to this practice [...]
Aug 18, 2023
The provider is a good listener
Aug 18, 2023
When you have the best, nothing is better!
Aug 16, 2023
Always is good attention to my problems.
Aug 16, 2023
Very on time. Very attentive to concerns.
Aug 16, 2023
Dr. Symer is everything you could want in a provider. He's kind, personable, and knowledgeable. He also has a fantastic way of broaching traditionally difficult topics (weight gain for example) with tact
Aug 14, 2023
Nothing I can think of. I've never had a bad experience here and never dread coming in. Quite the contrary, I look forward to it!
Aug 14, 2023
Dr. Symer is an exceptional doctor.
Aug 14, 2023
Dr. Symer is the best. He always listens, makes candid observations and his information is heartfelt and he is a good listener.
Aug 11, 2023
Very professional, respectful, answers all questions asked. Has a very calming and positive approach.
Aug 09, 2023
DR Symer is terrific.
Aug 01, 2023