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Donald Ford

Donald Ford, MD, MBA

Family Medicine

Need help scheduling? Call (440) 312-8294

Highlights

Age Groups Seen

  • Child
  • Adolescent
  • Adult

Languages

  • English

Gender

Male

About Donald Ford

Biography

Donald Ford, MD, MBA, FAAFP is a Board-Certified Family Physician and is Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Cleveland Clinic. He is also a member of the Cleveland Clinic Board of Governors. He recently stepped down from his roles as Medical Director for Community Health Public Health Strategy and as Chief Medical Officer for Better Health Partnership.

He has served as Vice President of Medical Operations and Interim President at Hillcrest Hospital. Previously he served as Chief Medical Officer and CEO of Sheikh Khalifa Medical City in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. While in Abu Dhabi he was the Course Director for the Second Annual Primary Care Conference as part of the Abu Dhabi Medical Congress and has served the same role for the Cleveland Clinic Primary Care Evidence-Based Medicine Conference 2013 - 2016. He is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University. His original research has been published in journals such as Family Medicine, The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, and the Journal of Addictive Diseases.

Dr. Ford joined Cleveland Clinic in 1999 as a Family Physician at the Solon Family Health Center. He has been the Section Head for Family Medicine, Liaison to the Division of Pediatrics, Medical Director of the Solon and Chagrin Falls Family Health Centers, and the founding Medical Director of Access to Care, Cleveland Clinic's Appointment Center. Dr. Ford graduated from the CWRU School of Medicine with Distinction in Family Medicine, completing the Accelerated Residency Program at University Hospitals of Cleveland. He has been awarded the Ed & Diane White Award for Excellence in Clinical Teaching at CWRU. In 2007, he became a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

He received his MBA in Health Care from Baldwin Wallace University in May of 2015, achieving membership in the Baldwin Wallace Business Honors Society.

Locations

  1. Hillcrest Medical Office Building II
    • phone:
    • fax:

Education & Board Certifications

Education

  • Graduate School: Baldwin Wallace College, 2015
  • Residency: University Hospitals of Cleveland, 1999
  • Medical Education: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 1997
  • Undergraduate: State University of New York at Purchase, 1982

Board Certifications

  • Family Medicine: American Board of Family Medicine, 2000

Professional Highlights

  • House Doctor - Cleveland Play House, Great Lakes Theater Festival

Awards

  • Fellow, American Academy of Family Physicians
  • Ed & Diane White Award for excellence and innovation in clinical teaching

Professional Memberships

American Academy of Family Medicine; Ohio Academy of Family Medicine; Cleveland Academy of Family Medicine; Performing Arts Medical Alliance

Research & Publications

See publications for this provider. (Disclaimer: This search is powered by PubMed, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. PubMed is a third-party website with no affiliation with Cleveland Clinic.)

Industry Relationships

Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists collaborate with industry to advance medical breakthroughs. These partnerships help commercialize discoveries for public benefit while maintaining scientific integrity. To ensure transparency and minimize potential bias, Cleveland Clinic reviews these relationships and publicly discloses when physicians/scientists receive significant compensation for consulting, serve in fiduciary roles, receive royalties, or hold equity interests related to their work. We manage potential conflicts through approval processes, annual reporting, and targeted management plans.

As of 2026-03-20, Dr. Ford has reported no financial relationship with industry that is applicable to this listing.

In general, patients should feel free to contact their doctor about any of the relationships and how the relationships are overseen by Cleveland Clinic. To learn more about Cleveland Clinic's policies on collaborations with industry and innovation management, go to our Integrity in Innovation page.

Public Health Service-Reportable Financial Conflicts of Interest. Cleveland Clinic scientists and physicians engage in basic, translational and clinical research activities, working to solve health problems, enhance patient care and improve quality of life for patients. Interactions with industry are essential to bringing the researchers' discoveries to the public, but can present the potential for conflicts of interest related to their research activities. Click here to view a listing of instances where Cleveland Clinic has identified a Public Health Service (PHS)-Reportable Financial Conflict of Interest and has put measures in place to ensure that, to the extent possible, the design, conduct and reporting of the research is free from bias.

* Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists subscribe to the guidance presented in the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals and the AdvaMed Code of Ethics on Interactions with Health Care Professionals. As such, gifts of substantial value are generally prohibited.

Insurances Accepted

Review a list of accepted insurance plans for our Northeast Ohio locations or learn more about purchasing a contracted managed care plan.

Video

Ratings & Reviews

4.9 out of 5

260 ratings, 73 reviews

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

Explains
Courtesy Respect & Concern
Patient Rating of Doctor
Search reviews
    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/27/2026

    Excellent experience and outstanding concern for my long-term well-being! Than you Dr. Ford.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/27/2026

    I feel very fortunate to have Doctor Ford as my primary care physician. He is knowledgeable, patient, and considerate. He took the time to address all of my questions. I feel very confident in his diagnosis of my condition and proposed plan of treatment.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/8/2026

    Dr. Ford checked all that he could, and when everything checked out normal he suggested a chest X-Ray, and when that came out normal he suggested a chest CT Scan. I am still awaiting the CR results, but he has discussed what his plans are following the CT results with me.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/8/2026

    Dr Ford is showing concern and providing support

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/8/2026

    Dr. Ford is excellent. He is kind and caring and shows great concern for his patients.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/6/2026

    I feel very lucky to have a doctor like Dr. Ford.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/6/2026

    All good.. Dr Ford and the entire practice is great...

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/30/2026

    Doctor Ford is a superb physician! Open to discussing any of my concerns or treatments!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/30/2026

    Doctor Donald Ford has always made me feel he is up-to-date and knowledgeable in several medical areas. I always refer to him as a real life Doctor House (a tv program), as far as always being knowledgeable and on target with his diagnosis. He can make a diagnosis long before it is confirmed by many tests. He is an unusual intellectual physician, any doctor who is trained under his hand will be a future asset to Cleveland Clinic.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/30/2026

    I get the highest care from Doctor Donald Ford then I have from any other doctor in my life, which is why I have been with him for years. My family members also have him as their primary doctor as they feel the same.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/19/2026

    I would give it a 6, perhaps the best doctor/patient communication experience in my life.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/11/2026

    Dr. Ford is the best

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/3/2026

    I like Dr. Ford and I think we have a very good patient, doctor relationship. I''m comfortable with asking questions and giving my thoughts regarding what''s happening to me and treatments that he prescribes.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/18/2026

    Dr. Ford is the best doctor I have experienced at the Cleveland Clinic. He was patient, caring, and thorough. I feel very fortunate to have him as my doctor.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/18/2026

    Everyone from start to finish was exceptionally kind and caring, especially Dr. Ford and his nurse and team. Thank you!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/10/2026

    Greatest Doctor on Earth He really cares and very knowledgeable and experienced

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/10/2026

    DR. Ford is always wonderful. He is caring and very sensitive to his patients' needs. I feel lucky to have him as my doctor.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/9/2026

    Dr Ford is an excellent PCP. He takes the time to discuss all aspects of my health, test results, etc. And provides sound advice.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/9/2026

    Dr. Ford is the best! He is knowledgeable, caring and easy to talk to.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/23/2026

    Dr. Ford is an amazing physician. He consistently provides excellent care, has incredible compassion and concern and always follows through with a plan.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/23/2026

    Dr. Ford addressed my health issues with respect for my concerns including thoroughly explaining my conditions. Because of Dr. Ford's attention and diligence to my symptoms and medical history he was able to diagnose an underlying health condition. Now having the condition treated my physical and mental health has greatly improved. My daily physical and cognitive functioning has significantly changed and is improving my quality of life to the extent I didn't think possible.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/14/2026

    Dr. Ford is excellent!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/24/2025

    Doctor Ford is personable, direct, professional, skilled and highly informative about his recommendations.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/24/2025

    Dr. Ford's push for investigative treatment saved my life

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/24/2025

    Dr Ford answered all of my concerns and was on top of my concerns Excellent Physician

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/24/2025

    Dr. Ford is a particularly unique practitioner, with an excellent patient manner. I have gone out of my way to continue as his patient despite now living some distance away from Mayfield Heights.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/24/2025

    DR Ford was very nice.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/18/2025

    Dr. Ford is the most caring physicain I know! He listens and has great feedback to any issues one may have.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/2/2025

    Dr. Ford is extremely thorough kind, considerate, and I feel grateful that he is my physician

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/19/2025

    Simply the best PC doc we've ever seen

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/19/2025

    Dr. Ford is wonderful and has my complete respect and trust

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/19/2025

    Dr. Ford is fantastic.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/19/2025

    Dr. Ford provided an evaluation of my condition with care for my physical and mental well being. The evaluation was not planned, since I had not communicated the health issues prior to the appointment. I feel assured with the results of Dr. Ford's evaluation. This includes follow-up with further diagnostic testing and consultation with Psychiatry. Dr. Ford at all times put me at ease, listened to my concerns and addressed them with care, including for my emotional wellbeing. I very much appreciate the time and consideration he gave me. Dr. Ford's considerate treatment of me as a patient with many health issues has been the case since I believe 2015.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/7/2025

    Dr Ford was very thorough and helpful

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/3/2025

    Dr . Ford is a wonderful doctor.I have been his patient for years and Dr. Ford always answer my questions in and I never feel rushed . The doctor checks my vitals and gave me helpful advice on treatment of my painful plantirs facitis.He is a knowledgeable physician who really cares about his patients.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/3/2025

    Dr. Ford is an excellent and caring physician. Patient, caring, and intelligent.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/3/2025

    Dr Ford always has our best interest at heart.He helps us know what is next in our process to keep us keep good health.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/13/2025

    Very good doctor.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/7/2025

    I have known Dr. Ford for many years. While he enjoys a good sense of humor, when it comes to his medical practice, he is highly professional.. There was a question about some blood work results. We discussed this and he went further to immediately order additional analysis.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/7/2025

    Dr. Ford is simply Outstanding in all areas of his medical field!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/7/2025

    Dr. Ford is patient, never rushed, and very thorough. An excellent physician!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/7/2025

    Dr. Ford is excellent !!! He is such a caring and kind physician, and offers me the best treatment.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/7/2025

    Dr. Ford is Amazing!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/22/2025

    Dr. Ford is always attentive to my healthcare changes

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/22/2025

    Dr. Donald Ford is not only knowledgeable, efficient, and organized, but he has a wonderful bedside manner. His calm approach makes patients feel calm. He did not rush through the appointment but answered all of our questions and asked if there was anything else he could do for us. He is great!

    1 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/10/2025

    Everything up to interacting with Dr. Ford was great as always.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/10/2025

    Dr. Ford is exceptional. He listens, looks,feels and makes a plan of care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/8/2025

    Dr. Ford is an outstanding physician!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/8/2025

    Doctor Ford is an excellent doctor. He has treated my whole family and I would highly recommend him.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/1/2025

    Dr. Ford listens, explains well and patently, informs very ably

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/1/2025

    Dr. Ford is a wonderful caring physician

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/28/2025

    I absolutely LOVE Dr. Ford! He is the best! He is very knowledgeable and caring and also fun. He makes going to the doctors a good experience.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/28/2025

    Dr. Ford is one of the best doctors I have ever had. He genuinely cares about his patients and takes everything I say very seriously. He is also conservative with modifying my diabetes treatment; which I appreciate. I really can't praise him enough.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/28/2025

    I hope Dr. Ford never retires!!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/14/2025

    Dr Ford is the very best PCP I have ever had. With him over 20 years

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/26/2025

    Dr. Ford has been our PCP for over 20 years. His medical care and knowledge is outstanding. His attention to our needs and referrals to other specialists over the years has helped us greatly. He's become not only our Primary Care Physician but a trusted friend and confidant. He's a true credit to his patients, profession and the Cleveland Clinic community.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/26/2025

    Dr Ford was very thorough with everything and I wish he took on new patients because I really like him!!!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/20/2025

    Dr Ford is the best physician

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/20/2025

    In addition to being kind, competent, and effective, Dr. Ford is exceptionally responsive to my concerns and questions. Almost always, I hear back from him within hours, through MyChart or by phone. I am very happy with his care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/20/2025

    My physician actually touches his patients to listen to their hearts and lungs. Most new docs live behind their computer screens. No more bedside manner

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/20/2025

    I always recommend Dr. Ford

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/20/2025

    Dr Ford has been our dr for 20plus yrs. He has been/is and I'm sure will always be the best dr we could ever hope for.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/29/2025

    Dr. Ford has been my best physician over many years.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/29/2025

    My care by Dr. Ford has always been superior.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/22/2025

    I always enjoy my visits with Dr. Ford. He listens very well and provides a range of options for my medical conditions.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/22/2025

    Always attentive and personable! Ask a lot of questions related to any concerns I may be having! Excellent physician!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/22/2025

    Dr Ford is absolutely the epitome of a perfect care provider. He shows he hears me, understands me and values me as a patient. He talks with me not at me.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/22/2025

    High level of care from Dr Ford , he should be nominated for care giver of the year

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/16/2025

    Dr. Ford is a wonderful physician. He takes the time to listen to address my concerns and also makes recommendations for my care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/8/2025

    Dr. Ford is always kind, caring and attentive. I am always satisfied with my interaction with him

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/8/2025

    I have recommended Dr. Ford but he is not taking new patients

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/8/2025

    Dr. Ford is amazing. He's right with you and listens to every word. Offers suggestions and includes patient in the decision for treatment. He is delightful compassionate, and gentle. He's the best!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/8/2025

    Dr. Ford is an excellent doctor. He's very responsive.