Finding a reliable primary care doctor in North Jersey feels like a full-time job. You want someone who actually listens, but you also need someone who knows their stuff when things get complicated. That's why people keep talking about dr pondo in rutherford.
Dr. Jaroslaw Pondo has been a staple of the local medical community for decades. Specifically, he’s been practicing for over 35 years. That is a long time to be looking at sore throats and managing blood pressure in the same zip code. He operates out of an office at 71 Union Ave, Suite 107. It’s a pretty unassuming spot, tucked away in that professional corridor of Rutherford where you’d expect to find seasoned specialists.
The Real Story on Dr. Pondo’s Expertise
Most people just think of him as a "regular doctor." While he is an internist, his background is actually a bit more layered than your standard GP. He’s an MD who graduated from the Medical Academy in Bialystok back in 1989. After that, he did some heavy lifting in New York. We're talking about a residency in Internal Medicine and a fellowship in Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital.
Basically, he’s a lung expert who chooses to practice primary care.
This matters because a lot of his patients come to him for things like acute upper respiratory infections or pharyngitis. When you have a "pulmonology" lean to your training, you tend to catch things others might miss in a standard 15-minute physical. He’s affiliated with Hackensack University Medical Center, which is usually a good sign if you need a referral into a major hospital system.
What the Patient Experience Is Actually Like
If you check the data, patients are generally happy. He holds a 4.4-star rating on Healthgrades with dozens of reviews. People often use words like "compassionate" and "thorough." There’s a specific vibe in that office—it feels like an old-school practice. You aren’t just a number on a spreadsheet.
One long-term patient mentioned they’d been seeing him for 12 years and wouldn't dream of switching. That kind of loyalty is rare in 2026.
However, it isn't all sunshine. Some folks have voiced frustrations. There are mentions of the office not accepting new patients at certain times or being told to "call back in the new year." It’s a common issue with solo or small practices; they get "at capacity" and stay there because nobody wants to leave.
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Also, a few scattered reviews mention a specific legal/regulatory hiccup from several years ago regarding medical records. It’s the kind of thing that makes people pause. Honestly, it’s worth doing your own due diligence on any provider's history via the NJ State Board of Medical Examiners if you have specific concerns about past fines or administrative issues.
Why the Rutherford Location Matters
Rutherford is a hub for commuters. Having dr pondo in rutherford means you have access to a high-level internist without driving into Manhattan or deep into the Paramus traffic. The office hours are somewhat traditional, usually opening around 9:00 AM.
- Monday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM – 6 PM (a bit later for the work crowd)
- Wednesday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Friday: 9 AM – 4 PM
They do take insurance, but you’ve got to call and verify. Don't just assume. The phone number is (201) 896-0050.
Navigating Your First Visit
If you manage to get an appointment, be prepared for a real conversation. This isn't a "med-spa" experience. It’s a medical office.
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Wait times are generally reported as short, which is a miracle in Bergen County. Most patients say they feel respected and that the doctor doesn't rush the appointment. That's likely because Dr. Pondo has such a massive amount of experience—35+ years means he’s seen almost everything at least twice.
He treats a very high volume of respiratory issues compared to similar providers. If you have a nagging cough or chronic bronchitis, he’s probably a better bet than a generic urgent care clinic.
Practical Steps for New Patients
- Call first thing in the morning. If they aren't taking new patients today, ask for the specific date their books "re-open."
- Verify your plan. Even if they took your insurance last year, the 2026 tiers are different. Specifically, check if your "Hackensack Meridian" or "Optum" affiliated plan considers him "In-Network."
- Gather your records. Since he has a pulmonology background, if you have old chest X-rays or asthma records, bring them. He will actually look at them.
- Prepare for the Union Ave parking. It can be hit or miss. Give yourself an extra ten minutes just to find a spot.
If you’re looking for a doctor who combines high-level critical care training with the bedside manner of a neighborhood internist, checking out the practice of dr pondo in rutherford is a solid move. Just make sure to confirm his current availability and double-check his standing with your specific insurance carrier before you head over.
For the most up-to-date info, checking the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website can give you the latest on his license status and any public records.