John T. Batter, MD

Cardiothoracic surgeon John Batter, MD, grew up in Omaha and has long been interested in science. After graduation from pharmacy school, he pursued a medical school degree, and it was during a cardiac rotation that he knew surgery was his true calling.

"You get to participate in a complex, interesting operation while listening to music," he joked. "But the best part of my job is the fact that you get to help somebody in their quest to be healthy."

And the most rewarding part of his job can be found in his desk at Methodist Physicians Clinic.

"I was cleaning it out just last week, and I had a whole drawer full of thank-you cards from patient's even years after they've had their operation," he said. "And that's the most gratifying thing about this ñ is that someone is still doing well and they can send you cards four or five years later."

Dr. Batter is proud of the fact that over 90% of his coronary artery bypass surgeries are done without the use of a heart-lung machine, which provides patients with a lower risk of complications.

"It's like working on a car while the engine is running," he said of the surgical approach that's used in only about 15% of cases nationwide.

While he describes himself as "straight and to the point," he wants his patients to know that he's invested in each of them. And when they visit his clinic, he wants to reassure them that they'll get the best care possible from every person they meet. He feels he has surrounded himself with an excellent team to deliver outstanding health care.

"We're good at what we do, and we're going to take good care of you."

The Omaha native enjoys spending his free time with his kids and grandkids, and hiking his way through national parks with his wife. He also enjoys music, Husker sporting events, Creighton basketball and horse racing.