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Dr. Mary Vanko, MD

Dr. Mary Vanko, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology*
35+ years of experience

Dr. Mary Vanko, MD is an obstetrician gynecologist in Merrillville, IN and has over 35 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from University of Illinois College of Medicine in 1987. She is affiliated with medical facilities such as St. Mary Medical Center and Community Hospital. She is accepting new patients and telehealth appointments.

3.4 Star Rating
Based on 92 reviews 3.4 Star Rating (92 reviews)

Practice

280 E 90th Dr Merrillville, IN 46410
Telehealth available

At a Glance

  • Friendly Staff
    Patients said the staff was friendly. See reviews
  • Offers Telehealth
    This doctor offers telehealth appointments. Call the office to schedule an appointment.
  • Practices at Top Hospital
    Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ See hospitals
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Dr. Vanko's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Vanko

3.4
92 ratings, 30 with a written review
5 star
57%
57%
4 star
3%
3%
3 star
1%
1%
2 star
2%
2%
1 star
37%
37%

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Terribly unprofessional
I came into my appointment with questions about birth control. Instead of being helpful & suggestive, she berated me on the method I'm using, while continuing to tell me that my husband needs to just get snipped. She was rude & kept raising her voice at me. There was then an insurance issue. When I addressed it with her (she was always answering the office phone when I called), she again tried to argue with me. Insurance told me it was billed incorrectly, and she said it absolutely was not. I did finally get it fixed. She then called me to tell me how she fixed the situation & she had to pay for it. She raised her voice at me again and got angry when I told her I had fixed it and my insurance paid her. It was an all around terrible visit. I will never go back there, and encourage everyone to stay far away from her. Every interaction was unprofessional and rude. I would never treat anyone the way she treated me.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Jun 11, 2024
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new mommy again at 40
I just had an appointment with Dr. Vanko on this pasted Monday and here is how it went. She is the sweetest woman and very knowledgeable about her craft. She made me feel welcomed and comfortable. She answered all of my questions and gave me some insight on some doctors and hospitals. I wish I can keep for the entire length of my pregnancy because she will only treat up to 12weeks.
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jan 26, 2024
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I was a drug rep for Dr Vankos office for almost 4 years. The one thing I will say is that you can often tell a lot about a Doctor based on how they treat their staff and drug reps. Dr Vanko is kind and compassionate and always gives her reps and patients plenty of time. I have always been impressed with how she wants to stay on top of the latest and greatest treatment options out there, she is extremely knowledgeable. She attends so many different speaker programs and reads up on the latest treatment options in medical journals on a regular basis. She’s a wealth of knowledge! I highly recommend her!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Tina G – Nov 29, 2021
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If I could leave zero stars I would. This was the worst doctor visit I have ever been to. She asked me a question and when I tried to answer she literally said” yeah yeah I get it” before I finished answering. When I asked about issues with birth control I was told “if you want this fixed you will just take it”. She did not listen to any of my concerns and was extremely rude. I would never go back if she was the last doctor alive.
What went well
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
4 others found this helpful
Helpful
Sep 16, 2021
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I was very impressed with her . I was with her an hour.She explained what was causing my problems. A thorough exam.She is a Urogynecologist. I thought I might have to also see a urologist for my bladder problems too. Because of her extensive training she was able to diagnose & treat both areas. I was happy to not have to see another doctor too. She was helpful with saving me money on my prescription too. I will see her again in 6 months. I trust her & am very comfortable with her. Patricia Haas R.N. Thank you to my Internal Medicine Physician Dr. Malek Maatouck in Valparaiso for making this referral.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
May 15, 2020
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She was super knowledgeable and caring during my appointment. She spent extra time to make sure I was aware of what was going on to explain everything super thoroughly. She even brought up another diagnosis that my other doctor overlooked. So thankful for Dr. Vanko!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
A Patient – Apr 13, 2020
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Very good!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Oct 30, 2019
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I have been seeing Dr. Vanko for more than 18 years. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Dr. Vanko delivered 4 of my children, 2 naturally and 2 by cesarean section. She has always allowed me to make the best decision for myself. I have 3 daughters that see her as well. We are all very happy.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Pamela Muth – Feb 15, 2018
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I had a softball cyst on my right ovary after many attempts with different types of birth control we weren’t able to shrink my cyst. So I had Laparoscopic surgery to remove my cyst originally Dr. Vanko said I would probably lose the majority of my right ovary she was very realistic with what I should expect going into surgery. After surgery she and another doctor were able to save my entire right ovary! I’m very impressed with her and her staff. She’s currently helping me to try to get pregnant
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Olivia in Merrillville, IN – Dec 01, 2017
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Dr Vanko has been my gynecologist for many years. She has helped me through a variety of issues, primarily rectocele and cystocele problems. She uses minimally invasive surgical techniques, often as an outpatient. She is patient, informative, and knowledgeable.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mary C. in Crown Point, IN – Jul 29, 2017
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I feel Dr. Vanco is genuinely concerned about my health issues.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Merrillville, IN – Jul 28, 2017
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After having failed pregnancies I decided to seek help. Dr. Mary Vanko was very professional, thorough and informative. She was able to pin point what was causing the miscarriages and I just recently delivered a healthy boy thanks to her. I would recommend her to family and friends!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Christine in Saint John – Jul 27, 2017
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I love Dr. Vanko. After trying to get pregnant for 5yrs on my own I went through fertility treatments with her. She never gave up & I eventually conceived. I delivered a beautiful healthy boy! 3 years later due to my health issues my 2nd son was born premature. Dr. Vanko was amazing! She did everything she could to help my son be as healthy as possible under the circumstances. My son is now 10yrs old & has a mild case of CP. It could have so much worse if not for Dr. She's been my Dr for 20yrs.
What went well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
May 30, 2017
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You will be here for at least 2-4 hours every time you come. They mess up your paperwork and insurance and then don't even call you to let you know. Put off on ordering what you need adding months onto the wait time. Every time you call the receptionist says they will call back and never do or if they do it is over a week later. Terrible service. Dr. Vanko should not be recommended. Especially to first time patients because she doesn't explain enough.
What went well
  • Explained conditions well
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Chicago, IL – May 09, 2017
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Dr.Vanko is a wonderful dr. She not only listens but, she also takes time to ask you questions to get a better understanding of whatever the situation maybe. She also gives wonderful knowledge on birth control options and the pros & cons that come with them. She has been with me pre and post pregnancy. She delivered my daughter. She also helped me get temporary health insurance when my original insurance was taken away. She is always very concerned with my well being. Over all she is amazing.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Marisa in Valparaiso,In – May 04, 2017
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Great doctor! Very helpful staff Highly recommended ??
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mervat Abueid in Crown Point, IN – Mar 25, 2017
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I have been a patient of Dr. Vanko for 20 years. I am pass child bearing years but have had some incontinence problems and needed prolapse surgery. Dr. Vanko is very up to date on new procedures regarding these specific female problems. I was very satisfied and that was about 10 years ago. Dr. Vanko is very professional, knowledgeable, down to earth, kind and caring physician. Dr. Vanko takes the time to thoroughly explain medical issues and the staff is always kind and pleasant.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Linda Lewin in Valparaiso, IN – Dec 12, 2016
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I have been with Dr. Vanko for many years. I only wish I would have found her sooner in life so I could have been under her care during my three pregnancies; but she did take care of me through my hysterectomy and the "joys" of menopause. I find Dr. Vanko to be very straightforward, professional, knowledgeable, helpful, and caring in her own way. She is not "fluffy" but she does care about her patients. She and her staff are great and they are just the right fit for me.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Debbie Hall in Portage, IN – Dec 10, 2016
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A friend gave me Dr. Vanko's name 14 years ago when I was looking for a new OB/GYN. I recommend Dr. Vanko to anyone who asks. Her knowledge of prescriptions and new procedures proves to me that she continues her education to serve her patients the best way possible. She is straight forward and tells you exactly what is happening. I am a complicated patient with many health issues and she takes her time to make sure her treatment choices won't affect me negatively, and for that I am very thankful
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Merry DeMass in Valparaiso, IN – Aug 23, 2016
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I have been with Dr. Vanko for 5 years. I feel very comfortable with her. She gets right down to the problem and solves it. I give her a thumbs up. The office staff is great, helpful and funny.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Mary Jo D. in Crown Point, IN – Aug 14, 2016
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About Me

care philosophy

My patients are active participants in their healthcare.I provide personalized healthcare throughout a woman's life,and also provide complete OBGYN care including delivery services as well as primary care services for women. Preventative services...read more

biography

I have been honored to take care of thousands of the region's families and serving as Ob Gyn, gyn surgeon, and most importantly, primary care physician. I entered medicine after spending 10 years as a high school teacher. Doctor means teacher in...read more
  • Obstetrics & Gynecology

  • Bariatric Medicine

  • Adult Medicine

  • Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery

  • Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery

  • General Medical Practice

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Private Practice - Solo

  • Indiana University Northwest

    2005
  • Fellow American College Of Obstetrics And Gynecology

    Fellowship Hospital, 1993
  • University Of Illinois Hospital

    Residency Hospital, 1991
  • University Of Illinois Hospital/ Michael Reese

    1991
  • Columbus-cuneo-cabrini Medical Center

    Internship Hospital, 1989
  • University Of Illinois College Of Medicine

    Medical School, 1987
  • Columbus-cabrini-cuneo Medical Center

    Internship Hospital, 1987
  • University Of Illinois B S. Biological Sciences

    1982
  • Northeastern Illinois University Administation Certification Program, Masters Plus 36

    1980
  • University Of Illinois Neuroanatomy Graduate Assistant

    1980
  • Chicago Public Schools Master Teacher 1975-1983

    1975
  • Moraine Valley College Instructor 1975-1980

    1975
  • Northeastern Illinois University Master Of Arts

    1975
  • University Of Illinois

    Undergraduate School, 1973
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.
  • English

  • Croatian

  • Spanish

  • Womens Health, 1997

  • Tort Reform, Lack of Good Samaritan Coverage in Indiana Hospitals, 1997

  • Mom is GettingOlder, 5/9/2004

  • Golden Apple University of Illinois Resident Award, 1987-1991

  • Patient Choice Award, 2008

  • American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology Certification, 1993-2010

  • Patient Choice Award, 2007

  • Physicians Recognition Certificate, AMA, 1990 to present, 1990-2010

  • University of Illinois James Scholar, 1967-1970

  • Patient Choice Award, 2009

  • Editorial Board Contemporary OB GYN, 2009-2010

Online Care for Women's Health (Sponsored)

Locations

Practice

Office280 E 90th Dr Merrillville, IN 46410
1

Affiliated Hospitals

  • St. Mary Medical Center

    1500 S Lake Park Ave
    Hobart, IN 46342
    Recipient of 1
    hospital award

    Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ (2024)

    Top in the nation for overall patient experience based on nine measures related to doctor and nurse communication, hospital cleanliness and noise levels, and medication and post-discharge care instructions

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    89%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    5% higher than the national average

    82%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    7% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Community Hospital

    901 MacArthur Blvd
    Munster, IN 46321
    Recipient of 8
    hospital awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    83%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% lower than the national average

    81%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    6% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Methodist Hospitals-Northlake Campus

    600 Richard Gordon Hatcher Blvd
    Gary, IN 46402

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    80%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    4% lower than the national average

    71%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    5% lower than the national average

    View all patient feedback
Learn more about how Healthgrades measures Hospital Quality